Starting a Business as an Introvert: How to Make Your New Year's Resolution Stick

As the New Year approaches, many of us are quietly reflecting on the goals we've been nurturing. If you're an introvert like me, the idea of starting a business might feel both exciting and a bit overwhelming. Traditional advice often seems geared towards extroverts - becoming an influencer on social media, dancing for the algorithms, endless social exposure, and putting yourself out there in ways that might not feel natural.

But here’s the truth: success doesn’t have to look like a million-dollar business empire. As introverts, we have unique strengths that can lead to fulfilling and sustainable success - on our terms. Starting a business can be a deeply rewarding journey, especially when it’s built in a way that aligns with who you are and the life you want to create.

When I started my first business, I didn’t show my face or share my private life. Many of my most successful entrepreneur friends took the same approach. Believe it or not, the world of so-called "boring" businesses is alive, thriving, and full of freedom. In fact, there’s nothing boring about a business that lets you work for yourself, triple your salary, and take vacations when you need them - not when someone else decides it’s your turn.

We’re also bombarded daily with online promises of instant success. You’ve seen the ads: “Make millions in revenue working just two hours a day.” Sound familiar? My advice: if someone’s promising you overnight success, RUN! Building a business takes time, preparation, and commitment. There’s no shortcut around that reality.

And let’s take a moment to reflect on this whole "million-dollar business" obsession. Do you really need a massive empire to feel wealthy and successful? For many of us, the answer is no. The truth is, running a huge empire isn’t suited for everyone. The stress, responsibility, and endless hustle can strip away the freedom you’re chasing. Instead, a small, steady business - built thoughtfully and intentionally - might be all you need to feel independent, fulfilled, and in control of your life.

As tempting as the dream of overnight millions may sound, the reality is that true success comes from starting small, testing your ideas, and committing to the long game. We’re here to keep you grounded, offer realistic advice, and remind you that you don’t need fluff, fake promises, or unnecessary stress to build the life you want. Let’s embrace the beauty of starting simple and creating a business that truly fits you.

Top Reasons Introverts Struggle with New Year's Resolutions

Let’s be honest - New Year’s resolutions can be tricky. We set ambitious goals with the best intentions, but as life gets busy, those plans often fall by the wayside. For introverts, this process can feel even more daunting because of challenges like:

• Overwhelm from Grand Plans: Massive, undefined goals like “build a million-dollar business” or “completely transform my life” can feel paralyzing without a clear, manageable path forward.

• Energy Drain from Social Pressures: The thought of constantly networking, attending group workshops, or marketing yourself on social media might feel like more effort than it’s worth.

• Perfectionism Paralysis: The belief that everything needs to be flawless before starting can prevent you from taking the small steps that actually lead to progress.

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But here’s the good news: resolutions don’t have to be about chasing massive, stressful dreams. This year, let’s reframe the way we think about our goals. What if you focused on building a “boring,” steady business that’s enough to meet your needs, give you freedom, and allow you to work in ways that feel natural to you?

Make Your Goals Work for You

Instead of setting big, vague resolutions, try these steps to create achievable, introvert-friendly goals:

1. Focus on Small Wins

   Break down your resolution into bite-sized, manageable actions. For example, instead of “launch a business this year,” start with a clear, specific step like “create a list of three business ideas” or “write down the reasons why I want to start my business.” Small wins build momentum and confidence over time.

2. Choose Quiet, High-Impact Activities

   Opt for tasks that match your energy levels. For instance, rather than attending a high-energy networking event, focus on crafting thoughtful emails or building a compelling website that does the talking for you. Introverts thrive in environments that allow for deep thinking and creativity, so prioritize those.

3. Redefine Success

   Let go of the “million-dollar business” narrative and define what success looks like for you. Maybe it’s making enough to replace your current income while working fewer hours, or having the freedom to take vacations when you want. Your version of success should reflect your values and lifestyle - not someone else’s highlight reel.

4. Plan for Imperfection

   Accept that things won’t always go smoothly, and that’s okay. Instead of waiting for the “perfect” moment, start with what you have and adapt as you go. The beauty of running a smaller business is that it’s more flexible and less dependent on massive, risky investments.

5. Celebrate Progress Over Perfection

   Every step you take - no matter how small - is worth celebrating. Building a business that fits your lifestyle is about sustainable, realistic growth, not overnight success.

When you reframe your resolutions this way, you’ll find that they feel less overwhelming and more empowering. Building a business doesn’t have to mean scaling to millions or constantly hustling. Sometimes, success is simply about creating a stable, fulfilling source of income that lets you live the life you want.

Want more guidance on how to set realistic goals and create a business that fits your lifestyle? Download my free Business One-Pager, packed with key mindset tips and strategic hacks to help you start strong and stay focused. It’s a fluff-free companion for introverts looking to take their first steps toward a sustainable, successful business.

Start a Business in 2025: Embrace the W7 Checklist – A Step-by-Step Guide Tailored for Introverts

What if you had a roadmap to guide you through the initial stages of starting a business - one that broke everything down into manageable, clear steps? For introverts, this can make all the difference. It offers clarity, reduces overwhelm, and builds confidence as you navigate unfamiliar territory. Without a plan, it’s easy to feel lost or stuck, wasting time and energy on unnecessary struggles.

But here’s the best part: strategy isn’t quantum physics! It’s simply a flexible plan that evolves as you go. And here’s a confession: I rarely ever stick to my plans. Like many of you, I tend to sabotage them, tweak them endlessly, or veer off course when inspiration strikes. But even if you’re like me, having a foundation is invaluable - it keeps you grounded as you step into the unknown territory of building something new.

A plan is like the framework of a house: it gives you structure and stability, even if you rearrange the furniture a hundred times. It’s not about perfection; it’s about having a starting point that gives you confidence.

And the best part? You don’t need to attend business school to start a business. The W7 Business Strategy System is all you need to build that solid foundation. It’s designed to simplify the process and empower you to take action without feeling overwhelmed by jargon or unnecessary complexity.

Start a Business in 7 Days Email Program is The best Gift You can gift yourself in 2025 to start a business confidently.

The W7 Framework: Strategy for Real Business Life

Let me share a piece of my story. I started my very first business years ago. It was a food delivery business. I had no prior cooking skills and it all started in a small studio apartment with no real kitchen. At the time, my expertise was in marketing, not baking. In fact, I’d never baked a cake in my life! But that didn’t stop me. Using made-up recipes and a strategic approach to building my brand, I scaled that venture to selling hundreds of cakes weekly. Did I mention it all happened in a foreign country?

Here’s what I learned: you don’t need to be an expert in everything to succeed. If you have an idea, there’s a reason it’s sparked your interest. The key is pairing that spark with smart, strategic steps to bring it to life. Whether you dream of owning a bakery, launching a consultancy, or selling handmade products, the W7 framework helps you turn that idea into reality.

The Seven Steps to Starting Your Business

1. WHY: Find Your Core Motivation

• Ask Yourself: Why this business? Why do you believe in it? What values and passions are fueling this idea?

• Purpose: Understanding your "why" provides a strong foundation and keeps you motivated during challenging times.

2. WHAT: Define Your Offer

• Ask Yourself: What product or service will you start with? What problem are you solving?

• Purpose: Clarifying your offer ensures you're meeting a real need and sets the direction for your business.

3. WHO: Identify Your Ideal Client

• Ask Yourself: Who will benefit most from your product or service? What are their needs and preferences?

• Purpose: Knowing your audience helps tailor your approach and messaging.

4. WHERE: Find Your Audience

• Ask Yourself: Where do your ideal clients spend their time? Which platforms or places can you reach them?

• Purpose: Focusing on the right channels saves time and energy.

5. WHEN: Set Realistic Timelines

• Ask Yourself: What milestones do you want to achieve, and by when?

• Purpose: Establishing timelines keeps you on track without feeling overwhelmed.

6. WORKFORCE: Build Your Support System

• Ask Yourself: What tools, software, or people can support your journey?

• Purpose: Leveraging resources eases the workload and allows you to focus on what you do best.

7. WALLET: Manage Your Finances

• Ask Yourself: What is your budget? How will you fund your venture?

• Purpose: Financial planning ensures sustainability and helps avoid unexpected hurdles.

+ THE WOW Card: Discover What Makes You Unique

• Ask Yourself: What sets you apart from others in your field?

• Purpose: Highlighting your uniqueness attracts your ideal clients and differentiates you in the market.

See? No quantum science here! Just the right questions at the right time. You start small and easy and slowly dive deeper into SWOT analysis, market research or more complex pricing charts -all around the scope of W7 to keep you in check.

Your First Step

Whatever your idea is, there’s no need to have all the answers on day one. The W7 System helps you focus on the essentials, giving you the tools to build as you go. Remember: you don’t need to be the best baker to run a bakery, the best designer to sell fashion, or the best writer to publish a book. You just need dedication, some strategy and a willingness to take the first step.

Starting a business doesn’t have to be overwhelming—it can be quiet, steady, and perfectly suited to you. With the W7 framework, you’ll have the guidance and tools you need to create a business that fits your lifestyle and goals. Let’s make 2025 the year you take that first step toward the freedom you’ve been dreaming of. Best part? You don't even need to share this with anyone and work quietly on your dream goals.

Making the W7 Work for You

The beauty of the W7 system lies in its adaptability. It’s designed to meet you where you are, no matter your experience level or the size of your ambitions. Here’s how to get the most out of it:

• Work at Your Own Pace: There’s no rush. Take your time with each step, reflecting on your goals and how they align with your vision.

• Leverage Quiet Reflection: Use your natural strengths as an introvert—your ability to think deeply and introspect—to explore each question with intention.

• Avoid Overwhelm: Focus on one step at a time. When you approach things incrementally, you’ll keep the process manageable and enjoyable.

If you’re ready to embrace this approach but feel unsure about navigating it alone, don’t worry—you’re not alone. I’ve got a resource that might resonate with you.

Find Guided Support

Starting a business is like embarking on any new journey. Think about starting a new diet: you might consult a dietitian to craft a plan tailored to your needs. You don’t need a degree in nutrition to improve your health—you just need the right guidance, some trial and error, and the determination to stick with it. Business works the same way.

Let’s face it: those first three months are the hardest. Committing to begin is often the toughest step of all. That’s why having the right support—whether it’s a mentor, a course, or a community—can make a huge difference.

• Reach Out for Advice: If you know someone who owns a business, ask them for insights. Just be mindful—advice from corporate professionals isn’t always suited to entrepreneurship. After all, it’s like learning how to be a carnivore from vegans.

• Explore Accessible Resources: From podcasts and books to YouTube tutorials, there’s no shortage of free and affordable guidance out there. Seek out resources that speak to you and align with your learning style.

• Invest in 1-on-1 Guidance: If you thrive on personalized support, consider working with a coach or enrolling in a structured program. It can speed up your progress, provide clarity, and boost your confidence.

Ditch Perfectionism and Ego

Here’s the thing: you don’t need to know it all to start a business. You don’t need a degree or a perfect plan. You don’t even need to aim for perfection. The idea that you have to “be ready” before you begin is just your ego talking—that inner voice that tries to keep you “safe” by convincing you to stay small.

Your ego might tell you that you need a diploma to launch an app or years of experience to start a business. But the truth is, business loves speed. If you have an idea in your head, the time to act is now. You’ll figure out the details as you go, and every misstep will be a stepping stone to growth.

Keep It Quiet

In those early days, I always recommend keeping your plans close to your chest. Think of your business idea like a pregnancy—nurture it, test it, and let it grow before you announce it to the world. Use this quiet time to:

• Perfect your offer

• Test your concept

• Pivot when necessary

• Learn from mistakes

When you keep your ideas private, you remove the pressure of outside opinions. You’re free to experiment, fail, and adapt without fear of judgment. Remember: not every business will take off, and that’s okay. Your first venture is just the beginning—it’s a learning experience that will make you a better entrepreneur for the next.

Ready for a Structured Approach?

If you’re someone who craves a bit more structure, I’ve created a 7-day email course tailored specifically for introverts. It’s a straightforward, no-fluff program that walks you through the W7 steps with daily guidance. You’ll also get personalized 1-on-1 Q&A to address your unique questions—without overwhelming Zoom calls or generic advice.

This course is about clarity over chaos. It’s designed to help you work quietly and confidently, at your own pace. Seats are limited, so if you’re interested, you can learn more here. The link will direct you to the waitlist or provide details on the next launch date and current prices.

A Personal Story: Starting Quietly and Growing Steadily

When I started my first business in the Philippines, I didn't announce it to the world. Without telling anyone (less fear of judgment that way!), I crafted a plan, developed an offer, and began selling within seven days. With zero following and no friends to support my first orders, I found my initial clients through Facebook groups and Instagram.

Those first three months were a test—to see if I enjoyed the work and if it was viable. Fast forward less than a year later, I was known as the "Keto Queen" of Cebu, featured in major media, and making significant income—all from my home kitchen.

The key was starting small, focusing on strategic steps, and allowing myself to grow organically without external pressures.

Why Introverts Make Great Entrepreneurs

• Deep Focus: We have the ability to concentrate intensely on tasks, leading to high-quality work.

• Thoughtful Decision-Making: We tend to think things through, which can result in well-planned strategies.

• Strong Listening Skills: This helps in understanding client needs and building meaningful relationships.

Tips to Keep Your Resolution on Track

1. Set Clear, Achievable Goals: Use the W7 checklist to create a roadmap that feels doable.

2. Protect Your Energy: Schedule dedicated time for working on your business without interruptions.

3. Seek Like-Minded Support: Connect with other introverted entrepreneurs who understand your journey.

Celebrate Small Wins: Acknowledge and appreciate each step forward, no matter how small.

Making This New Year Different

Imagine ending this year not with a list of unfulfilled resolutions but with a clear plan and the first steps of your business underway. By aligning your goals with your introverted strengths, you're setting yourself up for genuine success.

Final Thoughts

Starting a business is a significant and exciting endeavor, especially when approached in a way that honors who you are. Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all method. The best approach is the one that feels right to you.

So, grab a notebook, find a quiet spot, and start exploring the W7 questions. Allow yourself the freedom to dream, plan, and take the first steps toward making your business idea a reality.

And if you feel you'd like some guidance along the way, my 7-day email course might be just the support you need

P.S. Let's Keep in Touch

Whether you're ready to dive in or just pondering possibilities, feel free to reach out. I'm always here to share insights, answer questions, or simply chat about your ideas.

Looking forward to connecting with you.

With warmth and unwavering belief in you,

Iza + Bella

Resources mentioned:

One-Pager - FREE Download

Start a Business in 7 Days Newsletter Course - Join the WAITLIST / learn more

P.P.S. Seats for the course are limited to ensure personalized support. If you're interested, be sure to check it out to secure your spot or join the waitlist for the next launch date and current prices.