How to Be Consistent and Use Your Skills to Build Your Online Business
Starting an online business isn't just about chasing profits—it's about building something that feels right for you. When I launched my own business, my guiding principle was comfort. I wanted to feel financially secure, creatively fulfilled, and at peace with the work I was doing.
And comfort isn’t just about the money or the hours; it’s about leaning into your natural talents and what you truly enjoy doing.
My Journey: Teaching as My Foundation
For as long as I can remember, I’ve wanted to be a teacher. It felt like a natural extension of who I was. My mother ran a daycare while I was growing up, so nurturing and educating others was always part of my environment.
In high school, I tutored children with special needs. In college, I taught Spanish. After graduation, I taught in Spain. And today, I teach business and public speaking at the college level. Teaching has always been my anchor, and it’s the foundation of my online business.
Lean Into Your Skills and Interests
When building your online business, take stock of the skills and passions you already have. What are the things that come naturally to you? What do you genuinely enjoy doing?
For me, teaching was the obvious choice. But I also discovered along the way that I love reading, writing, creating campaigns, and designing emails. These are the activities that energize me and make it easier to stay consistent.
At the same time, I’ve recognized my own challenges. For instance, writing feels much easier to me than being in front of a camera. So, I started my online presence by focusing on what I was good at: writing thoughtful emails, creating engaging graphics, and sharing valuable blog posts. I leaned into my strengths, which gave me the confidence to tackle other areas like video content.
How to Use Your Skills to Build Your Business
Here are some steps to help you turn your skills into a thriving online business:
1. Take Inventory of Your Strengths
Make a list of the skills and activities that come naturally to you. Are you a great writer? Do you enjoy designing graphics? Are you an excellent speaker or problem-solver? These strengths are the building blocks of your business.
2. Focus on What You Enjoy
You’re more likely to stay consistent when you enjoy the work. If writing feels natural, start with blog posts or newsletters. If you love visuals, focus on creating stunning social media posts or videos. Building a business is a marathon, not a sprint, so make sure your day-to-day tasks feel rewarding.
3. Build Around Your Zone of Genius
Your zone of genius is where your skills and passions intersect. For me, it’s teaching. What’s yours? Once you identify it, shape your offerings, content, and messaging around it. This makes your business authentic and allows you to shine.
4. Embrace Imperfection
Not everything will come easily, and that’s okay. If a particular skill—like video creation—feels intimidating, start small. Record drafts that never see the light of day. Focus on progress, not perfection.
Consistency Comes From Alignment
Being consistent in your online business isn’t about forcing yourself to do things you hate; it’s about aligning your business with your natural skills and interests. When you’re in alignment, the work doesn’t feel as overwhelming.
For me, staying consistent is easier when I focus on writing and teaching—things I genuinely enjoy. These strengths are my foundation, and they give me the confidence to try new things, like stepping in front of the camera.
Your Turn: Build Around You
Think about what feels right to you. What are your strengths, and how can you use them to serve your audience? Remember, you don’t have to do everything at once. Start with what comes naturally, and as your confidence grows, you’ll expand into new areas.
Your business should reflect who you are and what you love. Build it your way, and consistency will follow.