Ep 297: Why business ownership makes a lousy hobby.

Business Ownership Makes a Lousy Hobby (But That’s Actually a Good Thing)

There’s a sneaky line between having a hobby and actually running a business—and if you’re not careful, you can end up straddling that line without even realizing it. I see it happen all the time: talented, passionate women who say they’ve started a business… but behind the scenes, it’s more like an expensive, time-consuming hobby.

And I get it—because I’ve been there too.

You love what you do. Maybe it’s coaching, making beautiful things with your hands, or designing websites that make people swoon. You’ve got the heart, the passion, and the skills. But somewhere along the way, you start treating this thing with the same casual energy as weekend crafting or a side project. You work on it when you feel inspired, avoid the parts you don’t enjoy, and tell yourself you’ll “get serious soon.”

Here’s the truth: treating your business like a hobby feels easier—but it’s the fast track to frustration.

Running a real business requires a real mindset shift.
It’s showing up even when you don’t feel like it.
It’s learning the tech stuff even when it makes your brain hurt.
It’s marketing your offers consistently—even if it feels awkward at first.
It’s tracking your money, making hard decisions, and yes… dealing with rejection.

None of those things come with hobby territory. With a hobby, you do it when you want, however you want. There’s no pressure, no accountability, no expectation. But with a business? People are counting on you. And when you treat it seriously, everything changes.

Let’s talk about the stuff no one tells you when you start:

• Setting up a website, email list, and payment systems takes time.

• Marketing isn’t a one-and-done post—it’s ongoing visibility and connection.

• You can’t just create when you're inspired—you have to create on purpose and with a plan.

• You have to learn to track your numbers and make decisions that actually grow your business—not just feed your creative energy.

But here’s the beautiful part: when you stop treating your business like a hobby, you open yourself up to so much more.

You’re no longer just creating for fun—you’re creating for impact.
You’re not just dabbling—you’re building something meaningful.
You’re not just spending—you’re earning, growing, and making a difference.

When you commit to being a business owner—even if you’re just starting small—you begin to see your own potential in a whole new light. It becomes about more than what you’re selling. It becomes about who you’re becoming.

And no, it doesn’t mean the joy goes away. Actually, when you combine your passion with purpose, that joy runs even deeper. You get to do what you love and watch it change lives—including your own.

So let’s be honest with ourselves: Is this a hobby… or is this a business?

There’s nothing wrong with either path—but confusing the two is what creates the most pain.
If you’re in it for the fun of it, that’s beautiful. Own that and enjoy it.
But if you want to grow something real—something that brings in income and makes an impact—then it’s time to own your role as a business owner.

And I promise you: when you do, you’ll never want to go back to hobby mode again.