Select Page
Create A Lead Capture Workflow: Dubsado, Honeybook, Google Forms

Create A Lead Capture Workflow: Dubsado, Honeybook, Google Forms

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Create A Lead Capture Workflow: Dubsado, Honeybook, Google Forms

Do you want to know a key content system that every small business needs in their online marketing? It is an efficient lead capture workflow. Trust me, getting this right can transform your business from chaotic to polished professional.

Do you know that feeling when a potential client first reaches out? Excitement bubbles up, but so does the realization that there's a ton of back-and-forth emails, scheduling, and info-gathering ahead. That's where a slick lead capture workflow steps in. It's like having a virtual assistant who never sleeps, ensuring you make a fantastic first impression while staying organized.

Now, let's talk tech tools. Whether you're a fan of Dubsado, swear by Honeybook, or are just starting out and leaning towards budget-friendly Google Forms and Google Sheets, there's a solution for everyone. Each system has its own flair for making your lead management as smooth as your morning latte. ☕

So, are you ready to dig in and find out which one is your perfect match? Let's get to it and turn your lead capture process into a seamless, stress-free journey for both you and your future clients.

Understanding Lead Capture Workflows 

Alright, let's break it down. What exactly is a lead capture workflow? A workflow is every step from the moment a potential client says “hello” to the point where they're ready to dive into your services. It's not just about collecting contact info; it's about creating a smooth journey for your leads, automating communication, and ensuring that no one slips through the cracks. Essentially, it's your business's first impression – and we all know how crucial that is!

Now, why is this so vital for your business efficiency? Well, I know you already have too many balls in the air. Most days, you’re praying for a miracle that nothing will slip through and drop. A solid workflow keeps those balls seamlessly gliding in mid-air.

In the first few years of my budding business, my lead capture was pretty much a manual process of one application to another. While I did create a few zaps with Zapier to make it a bit more streamlined, I still had information in a number of applications. Leading me to feel a bit out of control and disorganized. 

But, the straw that broke the camel's back was discovering that my lead forms from my website were filtering into my junk mail. I don’t know about you, but I still, to this day, rarely check my junk mail. 

My lead capture process was, let's just say, a bit of a hot mess. I was spending more time hopping between emails, spreadsheets, and all the different tech tools. If I didn’t reference my lead capture checklist, I’d very likely forget an important step along the process. Or get something out of sequence that required me to double back. Sound familiar?

Fed up and frustrated from losing leads that I worked hard to attract, I knew I needed an easier, more efficient system. I decided to use a CRM, Client Relationship Management, to implement a structured workflow, and guess what? Suddenly, everything clicked. My leads were tracked seamlessly, follow-ups were a breeze, and I had more time to focus on what I love – handling the online marketing services for my clients.

In a nutshell, a well-oiled lead capture workflow is not just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have for keeping your business running smoothly. Trust me, your future self will thank you for setting it up!

Diving into Dubsado

Dubsado is not just a Client Management System (CMS); it's the heartbeat of your business's workflows and processes. Designed to consolidate the tracking of leads and clients, Dubsado is a one-stop solution where you can manage client communication, paperwork, and day-to-day activities. Imagine the relief of not having to jump between multiple applications throughout your workday. This integration alone is a game changer for efficiency.

Described by Dubsado themselves as a tool “built to save you time, impress clients, and grow your business,” it truly lives up to that promise. From invoicing and contract signing to scheduling appointments, Dubsado streamlines the essential tasks of your business.

In my journey with Dubsado, I’ve discovered its versatility and the power it holds in transforming business operations. Here’s where Dubsado became integral to my daily workflow:

Applications: Simplifying the client intake process.

Invoicing and Recurring Invoicing: Streamlining the billing cycle.

Contracts: Ensuring clarity and security in agreements.

Questionnaires: Facilitating easy information gathering.

Email Communication: Keeping track of client interactions.

The impact of Dubsado is most evident when comparing the “Before and After” of my lead capture process. Initially, it was a chaotic mix of various apps and manual interventions. Now, with Dubsado, it's a masterpiece of efficiency. A client fills out a form on my website, setting in motion a seamless workflow where everything from scheduling to follow-up emails is automated and effortless.

To get the most out of Dubsado, here's my advice:

  • Start Small: Focus on one workflow at a time, such as lead capture.
  • Customize: Make sure Dubsado reflects your unique brand and voice.
  • Automate: Use automated emails and scheduling features to free up your time.
  • Test and Tweak: Implement your workflow, then refine it based on your needs.

Embracing Dubsado marked a significant turning point in my business – from feeling overwhelmed to being in control and efficient. It’s not just a tool; it’s a transformation.

Exploring Honeybook 

I started with Dubsado and moved to Honeybooks. The only reason that I can honestly give is FOMO. Ashlyn Carter, from Ashlyn Writers, did a number of tutorials on Honeybook; she had a huge influence on me in my early years in business. Be that as it may, it took a ton of time to switch over. I’m happy with Honeybook. However, my time could have been better spent, I’m just saying.

What sets Honeybook apart is its user-friendly interface. It's designed for the non-tech-savvy entrepreneur in mind. It is easy to use and pretty. If you’ve been around here for any time, you know aesthetics makes many of my decisions. And the recent enhancements? They have taken the lead capture form to a new level, integrating payment and scheduling right from that form, adding more efficiency and effectiveness to your workflow.

Now, you might be wondering how Honeybook compares to Dubsado. Both are exceptional in their ways. While Dubsado focuses on the intricate automation of various business processes, Honeybook shines with its straightforward, user-centric approach. Honeybook is incredibly intuitive for managing client relationships, from the first inquiry to the final invoice. Dubsado, with its comprehensive feature set, is a powerhouse for those who love deep customization.

Setting up a lead capture workflow in Honeybook is a breeze, and here's how you can do it:

  • Integrate Your Inquiry Form: Start by linking your website’s inquiry form directly to Honeybook. This ensures that every new lead lands right where you need it.
  • Automate Responses: Set up automated responses to new inquiries. Honeybook lets you send personalized yet automated replies, so leads aren’t left waiting.
  • Utilize Templates: Honeybook offers a variety of templates for emails, proposals, and contracts. Customize these to fit your brand and business needs.
  • Schedule and Follow-up: Use Honeybook’s scheduling tool to set appointments and its automated reminders to keep you and your clients on track.
  • Monitor Your Pipeline: Keep an eye on where each client is in your process. Honeybook’s pipeline view makes this incredibly easy.

In essence, Honeybook is like a breath of fresh air for solopreneurs seeking simplicity and efficiency in their CRM. It’s the perfect blend of ease and functionality, making it an ideal choice for those who want to spend less time managing software and more time growing their business.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Create A Lead Capture Workflow: Dubsado, Honeybook, Google Forms

Budget-Friendly Option: Google Forms with Google Sheets 

For those just starting out or operating on a shoestring budget, there's a wallet-friendly solution to manage your leads: Google Forms and Google Sheets. These tools are a great option for early-stage entrepreneurs. They’re simple, efficient, and best of all, free!

Here’s a step-by-step guide to setting up a straightforward yet effective lead capture system using these Google tools:

  • Create Your Google Form: This is a simple way to capture new lead information from your website, or if you do not have a website you can direct leads from social media to the Google Form. Customize a Google Form to capture essential information from potential clients – think name, email, service interest, etc. The beauty of Google Forms lies in its simplicity and customization options.
  • Link to Google Sheets: Once your form is ready, connect it to a Google Sheet. Every time someone fills out your form, their information will automatically populate in the sheet. It’s like having a self-updating database without the need for manual data entry. In addition, make sure to set up it up to send you an email when a form is completed.

– The Google Sheet will be where you keep track of your lead follow-up.

  • Set Up Gmail Canned Responses: Now for communication. In Gmail, you can create canned responses for common scenarios, like thanking someone for their inquiry or providing additional information. This saves you the time of crafting individual replies while ensuring prompt responses.
  • Integrate with Google Calendar: To streamline scheduling, use the appointment slots feature in Google Calendar. You can share your availability with leads, allowing them to book meetings with you directly. This integration cuts down the back-and-forth emails to find a suitable time for both parties.
  • Use Google Meet for your discovery video calls and weekly client meetings.
  • Monitor and Follow-Up: Regularly check your Google Sheets for new entries and follow up as needed. This hands-on approach keeps you engaged with your leads and helps build a personal connection.

Using Google Forms and Sheets may not have the bells and whistles of Dubsado or Honeybook, but it’s a practical and effective starting point. It provides a solid foundation for managing leads and can significantly improve your efficiency and organization, all without breaking the bank

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Create A Lead Capture Workflow: Dubsado, Honeybook, Google Forms

Mapping Your Workflow: A Practical Exercise

Mapping out your lead management process might sound like a chore, but trust me, it's will make the process so much easier!

Grab a piece of paper (or open a fresh google doc) and let’s map out your journey from lead to client. This simple exercise is your roadmap to automation and efficiency.

List Your Current Steps: Jot down each action you take when a new lead comes in. From receiving the inquiry to your final follow-up, document every single step, no matter how small. This is your process.

Identify Key Information: What details do you need from your leads? Name, email, specific service interests? Pinpoint exactly what you need to know right from the start. This will shape your lead capture form, whether it's on Dubsado, Honeybook, or Google Forms.

Consider a Discovery Call: Do you want a personal touch with a discovery call for each prospect? If yes, outline what this call entails. Draft a framework of questions that will help you understand the client’s needs and showcase your value.

Automate Email Responses: Look at your typical email responses. Can you turn them into canned responses or automated emails in your CRM? This step saves heaps of time and ensures timely communication.

Post-Call Actions: Decide what happens after the call. Will you send a proposal, a follow-up email, or maybe schedule another meeting? Having a clear post-call action plan is crucial.

Create a Workflow Template: To help you out, I’ve created a downloadable template. It’s a simple yet effective tool to map your workflow. [Insert link to template] Use it to visualize your process and pinpoint where automation can make your life easier.

By mapping your workflow, you're taking the first step towards a more organized, efficient business. This clarity is not just about saving time; it’s about creating space for what truly matters – connecting with and serving your clients.

Gathering and Utilizing Data

Data collection and analysis might not sound like the most thrilling part of your business, but it's essential to the growth of your online business. It's all about gathering insights from your leads and clients to steer your business toward growth and success.

The Role of Data in Lead Management: Every interaction with a lead or client generates valuable data. From basic contact information to detailed preferences, this data is a goldmine. It helps you understand who your audience is, what they need, and how they found you. Tracking these details enables you to refine your marketing strategies, personalize your communication, and ultimately, convert more leads into clients.

Collecting Data Effectively: Whether you're using Dubsado, Honeybook, or Google Forms, ensure you're capturing the right information. Tailor your lead capture forms to gather not just contact details but also insights into what your leads are seeking. This could be their pain points, interests, or how they heard about your business.

Analyzing and Acting on Data: Once you have this data, the real magic happens in the analysis. Look for patterns and trends. Are there certain services that are more in demand? Do your clients come from a particular source more than others? This analysis can guide where to focus your marketing efforts or even suggest new services or products to offer.

Using Data for Personalization: Personalization is key in today’s market. Use the data you gather to tailor your communications. Address leads by name, reference specific interests they’ve shared, and make them feel seen and understood. This personalized approach can significantly increase engagement and conversion rates.

Data for Long-Term Growth: Regularly review the data you collect to inform your long-term business strategy. It can reveal insights into market shifts, evolving client needs, and areas where your business can expand or improve.

In essence, the data you gather and analyze is a compass guiding your business. It informs your decisions, shapes your strategies, and helps you navigate the ever-changing world of entrepreneurship. So, dig into your data – it’s one of your most valuable assets in the journey to business growth.

Final Thoughts and Call to Action

Wow, we've covered some serious ground today! Remember, the right system for you is the one that resonates with your workflow, enriches your client interactions, and, ultimately, makes your life easier.

If you're leaning towards the robust features of Dubsado or the user-friendly interface of Honeybook, I've got a little something for you. Check out these affiliate links to get started with Dubsado or Honeybook, and enjoy some sweet deals:

Dubsado: https://misstask.com/Dubsado

Honeybook: https://share.honeybook.com/misstask

So, take a moment, think about what you need, and make the choice that feels right. Whether it’s the comprehensive capabilities of Dubsado, the straightforward ease of Honeybook, or starting out with the basics of Google Forms and Sheets, you’re taking a big step towards a more organized, efficient, and successful business. Here’s to making lead management a breeze and focusing on what truly matters – growing your business and serving your clients. You've got this

.

Book A 1-Hour Virtual Session

Discover the Secret to Effortless Content Creation –

From Overwhelmed to Thriving: Your Content Creation Simplified Journey Starts Here!

Content Creation Resolutions and Goals for Improving Consistency

Content Creation Resolutions and Goals for Improving Consistency

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Content Creation Resolutions and Goals for Improving Consistency

As the year unfolds before us, the buzz of resolutions fills the air, nudging us to ponder our own aspirations and goals. Personally, I've always had a unique take on resolutions. I remember one year, my only resolution was to start flossing daily. Guess what? Flossing is still a daily habit, while I’m sure it is protocol when the hygienist still asks if I floss my teeth every day. My standard answer is yes, but don't you already know that based on my teeth? Still, I’m proud of this daily habit that has remained for years. 

It's a small victory, one that brings me a sense of pride and achievement.

Now, let's turn the spotlight on you. Are you the type to scribble down a list of ambitious resolutions each year? If so, how often do they revolve around grand visions that somehow get lost in the hustle and bustle of life? It's a common story: we set lofty goals, and at the first stumble, instead of pausing to regain our footing, we're tempted to throw in the towel. But what if we approached it differently? What if we embraced each setback with a laugh and a dose of self-compassion? What if now is the time to be as kind to ourselves as we are to a stranger?

In this spirit, I'm setting a resolution not just for myself but one I hope you'll join me in to be kinder to ourselves, and to allow grace in our entrepreneurial journey. Especially when it comes to one of the most daunting tasks we face as business owners—consistent content creation, let's dive into how we can make this resolution a tangible reality, transforming our approach to content creation from a source of stress to a stream of success.

The Reality of Resolutions

As entrepreneurs, especially at the start of a new year, we often find ourselves setting sky-high resolutions. It's like standing at the base of a mountain, looking up at the peak, and deciding to sprint to the top without a second thought. We're fueled by a burst of inspiration and determination. You know the feeling right, the excitement of all things new. But what happens at the first stumble? For many of us, the initial stumble – maybe missing a day of writing or falling behind on our content schedule – becomes the spot where our resolution journey halts.

I remember setting a goal to publish a blog post every week. The first few weeks were a breeze, filled with enthusiasm and fresh ideas. But then, life happened. A client needed extra attention, my kids' school events piled up – and just like that, my well-intended plan hit a snag. Frustrated and burnt out from content creation. I used the stumble as an excuse to scrap pretty much all content creation in 2017. While I wish I could tell you that I bounced back with consistency, that didn’t happen into the end of 2018. I’ve been consistent each week since.

That's the trap of the ‘all or nothing' mentality. We set these enormous goals, and when the inevitable hiccup occurs, it feels like a catastrophic failure.

But here's the thing: what if we adjusted our lens to view these setbacks not as failures but as part of the journey? What if, instead of aiming for flawless execution, we aimed for consistent yet imperfect action? The shift from perfection to consistency was a game-changer for me. It's about embracing the reality that some weeks, I can craft an in-depth, thoroughly researched post, and other times, a quick, heartfelt update is all I can manage – and that's okay. This mindset transforms our approach, turning our resolutions into sustainable practices rather than daunting challenges.

So, let's rethink how we approach our goals. Instead of reaching for the stars with a single leap, let's focus on building a staircase. Each step, no matter how small or imperfect, is progress. It's about celebrating the two-paragraph post written in between meetings as much as the “Oh my goodness, this is the best thing I’ve ever written for my blog” during a quiet afternoon. Achieving our goals requires consistent steps, taken day by day.

The Power of Grace in Your Business Journey 

In the hustle of running a business and managing personal commitments, we often forget one crucial ingredient: grace. 

Grace for when things don't go as planned, grace for when we're juggling too many balls and one drops. It's easy to extend understanding and compassion to others, but we're often our toughest enemies when it comes to ourselves.

Think about how you'd comfort a friend who missed a deadline because their kid was sick, or how you'd reassure a fellow entrepreneur who's feeling overwhelmed. 

Now, imagine offering that same kindness to yourself. It's about acknowledging that it's okay to have a day when you eat three Reese's Peanut Butter Cups instead of just one or to skip a workout because a meeting ran late. It's about understanding that being a bit short on patience with your family doesn't make you a bad person or a failure; it makes you human.

Bringing grace into our business journey means recognizing that we're doing our best, even if that best isn't perfect every day. It's about celebrating the small wins and learning from the hiccups. Most importantly, it's about acknowledging that every step, no matter how small or faltering, is still a step forward. This grace becomes a powerful tool, allowing us to approach our business and personal lives with a sense of balance and kindness.

So next time you find yourself being hard on yourself, pause and ask, “Would I say this to a friend?” Chances are, you wouldn't. Let's make a pact to treat ourselves with the same compassion we readily offer others. It's not just good for our well-being; it's good for our business, too.

Practical Steps for Consistent Content Creation 

Creating content consistently doesn't have to be an overwhelming task. It's about breaking it down into small, manageable actions that can easily fit into your busy schedule. Let's explore some practical steps to make this a reality.

 

Start with the Ten-Minute Action Plan 

The ten-minute action plan is a simple yet effective way to kickstart your content creation process. Dedicate just ten minutes each day to a specific content-related task. Grab your favorite pen and do a thought download of all the different ten-minute daily actions you can take to be a consistent content creator. 

Here are a few ideas to get you going, it could be brainstorming topics, outlining a blog post, or jotting down ideas for your next podcast episode. These short bursts of focused effort can add up to significant progress over time. 

 

Build a Story Bank 

One of the most valuable resources you can have is a ‘story bank' – a collection of personal stories, client success stories, and life lessons. These stories enrich your content and make it more relatable and engaging for your audience. Whenever inspiration strikes or you have a meaningful experience, or my personal favorite, a laughable adventure, add it to your story bank. This reservoir of ideas will be a lifesaver on days when you're struggling for content. Plus, it is great to use with social media.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Content Creation Resolutions and Goals for Improving Consistency

Apply Coaching Principles to Content Creation

As a coach, you're already equipped with skills that can be transferred to content creation.

Here are a few tips:

Goal Setting: Just as you set clear, achievable goals with your clients, do the same for your content. What do you want to achieve with each piece? How does it align with your services?

Accountability: Hold yourself accountable for your content goals. Consider partnering with a fellow entrepreneur for mutual check-ins or sharing your content plans with your audience to create a sense of commitment and excitement for what’s to come.

Reflective Practice: Regularly reflect on what's working and what's not in your content strategy. This reflective practice will help you refine your approach and stay aligned with your audience's needs and interests. If you’re not tracking your metrics, you must. Your numbers tell a story.

Embrace Flexibility

Lastly, be flexible in your approach. My sister gave me one of my favorite signs. Don’t get your tinsel in a tangle. Every year, when I put away my Christmas decor, I contemplate leaving it up all year round because it is a nice reminder to embrace flexibility.

Some weeks, you'll have more time and energy for content creation than others. Adjust your plan accordingly, and remember that consistency doesn't mean rigid adherence to a schedule; it's about making steady progress in a way that's sustainable for you.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Content Creation Resolutions and Goals for Improving Consistency

Overcoming the Inner Critic 

One of the most significant hurdles in our content creation journey, and indeed in our entrepreneurial path, is the inner critic. 

This voice of self-doubt often echoes the harshest judgments we can imagine, holding us back from taking action. Whether it's whispering that we're not good enough, or questioning the value of our insights, this ‘mean girl' syndrome can be a major roadblock.

Silencing the Inner Critic 

To tackle this, the first step is recognizing that this inner critic is a part of us that's trying to protect us, even if it's in an unhelpful way. Acknowledge its presence, thank it for keeping you safe, but don't let it take the driver's seat. 

Here's how you can start: 

Challenge Negative Thoughts: When a negative thought arises, challenge it. Ask yourself, “Is this really true?” Often, you'll find that these thoughts are based more on fear than reality.

Focus on the Impact: Remember, God put this calling on your heart for a reason, Friend. Your content has the potential to touch at least one person's life. When self-doubt creeps in, shift your focus to the impact your words can have. Even if you reach just one person, you're making a difference.

Positive Affirmations: Use positive affirmations to counteract negative thoughts. Phrases like “I have valuable insights to share” or “My experiences can help others” can be powerful rebuttals to self-doubt.

Journaling as a Tool for Reflection

Journaling is an excellent way to process your thoughts and overcome negative thinking. It allows you to:

Reflect on Your Feelings: Write down your fears and doubts. Seeing them on paper and experiencing with peers, your life coach, or a mentor they want to provide you with support and different perspectives on make them less intimidating and more manageable.

Write a letter to Jesus: When you find that you can’t get yourself out of the thought pattern. Sit down and pen a letter to Jesus asking for his help and guidance. He answers, Friend.

Celebrate Your Wins: Make it a habit to jot down your successes, no matter how small. This practice can build your confidence and remind you of your progress.

Plan Your Steps: Use your journal to plan out your content ideas and strategies. This can help organize your thoughts and make the task of content creation feel less daunting.

Remember, You're Not Alone

Lastly, know that every content creator and entrepreneur faces these challenges. You're not alone in this. If being an entrepreneur was easy, everyone would do this.

Do not be afraid to share what you are feeling and experiencing with peers, your life coach, or a mentor. They want to provide you with support and give you a different perspective on overcoming self-doubt.

It’s Time to Wrap This Up: A Call to Consistent Action 

As we draw this to a close, I want to leave you with a call to action that goes beyond the short-lived motivation of New Year's resolutions. It's a call to embrace consistent, imperfect action in your content creation journey. 

This isn't just about ticking off tasks on your to-do list; it's about recognizing the powerful ripple effect your words and insights can have on others, even if it's just for one person.

Reflecting on my own journey, I recall the moment I decided to commit to regular content creation, no more excuses.

Despite the challenges and the occasional self-doubt, I've seen firsthand how my stories and experiences resonate with my audience. This commitment has not only strengthened my business but has also allowed me to connect with and inspire others in ways I hadn't imagined.

So, as you set out on your own path, remember that your voice matters, your experiences are valuable, and your content has the power to impact lives. 

Start small, be consistent, and let the magic of your unique journey unfold. Here's to a year of meaningful content creation filled with growth, learning, and the kind of success that feels deeply satisfying and authentically yours.

Book A 1-Hour Virtual Session

Discover the Secret to Effortless Content Creation –

From Overwhelmed to Thriving: Your Content Creation Simplified Journey Starts Here!

Small Wins, Big Impact: Making the Most of Everyday Achievements

Small Wins, Big Impact: Making the Most of Everyday Achievements

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Celebrating Small Wins: The Key to Big Success

It came to me while I was out walking our dogs. You see, I wasn’t sure what would be the best topic for Episode 50 of the Content Systems for Growth Podcast. Not only is this episode 50, but it’s also the final podcast and blog post of 2023. Of course, why celebrate your small wins is the perfect topic. 

 

Hitting 50 episodes is a small win that deserves to be celebrated. How about you, Friend? Is this something that you do in your life and business? Do you celebrate your wins no matter the size of the accomplishment? If not, why don’t you? Regardless of the size of the win, you should take the time to give it a proper celebration. 

 

How often do you pause and bask in the joy of your accomplishments? When you succeed, do you allow yourself the time to celebrate? This practice is not just about recognizing success; it’s about cherishing the journey, especially for those of us balancing the demands of business and family life.

The Gap and The Gain

I’m curious: have you read the book by Benjamin Hardy and Dan Sullivan, The Gap and The Gain? If you’ve not read this book, I encourage you to do so. 

 

“When you’re in the GAIN, you focus on what you’ve actually done. You measure your GAINS and use those GAINS to create more and better GAINS in your future.” Hardy, Benjamin; Sullivan, Dan. The Gap and The Gain (p. xxviii). Hay House. Kindle Edition. 

 

Celebrating your small wins is precisely about focusing on these gains. It’s about acknowledging the steps you’ve taken, the hurdles you’ve overcome, and the progress you’ve made. Your dreams are built from small victories.

 

Here are a few simple ways to celebrate your wins:

Start A Success Jar for your Small Wins

 

Over the years as a business owner, I’ve tracked my accomplishments in a few different practices. The first was with a success jar. I’d write down the actual win I was celebrating on a little piece of paper and drop it in the jar. 

 

It’s super simple: jot down what you’re celebrating on a piece of paper and toss it in the jar. 

 

When you have those days, you know, the days I'm talking about, where things just seem not to be going your way, or it feels like you will never reach your goals. The days you need that little bit of extra encouragement.

 

That’s when you grab your success jar, pull out a few of your past accomplishments, relax, and step into the feeling you had when celebrating the win. It’s an instant day brightener. 😍

Journal Of Your Accomplishment

 

Not into a Success Jar? Another powerful tool I’ve embraced is maintaining a Journal of Accomplishments. Doesn’t that sound fun? This practice goes beyond the tangible wins. It's about documenting the journey, the growth, and the lessons learned along the way. Each page of this journal is a testament to your resilience, creativity, and dedication as an entrepreneur.

 

In this journal, write more than just the accomplishment itself. Reflect on what it took to get there – the challenges you overcame, the skills you honed, and the knowledge you gained. You're not just sharing your successes here; this is a story from your entrepreneurial journey.

 

On days when doubt creeps in, flipping through this journal serves as a powerful reminder of your capabilities and progress. It's not just about the destination but also about appreciating the little wins you’ve had along your journey.

 

Additionally, this journal provides insights into future strategies. As you review your past achievements, patterns of success emerge. As Tony Robbins said “Success leaves clues.” 

 

You'll start to see what works best for you, which strategies generate the most results, and how you’ve grown as a business owner and as an individual. It’s not only a source of inspiration but also a strategic tool for planning your next big move.

 

So, whether it's a success jar brimming with notes of victories or a journal filled with detailed accounts of your entrepreneurial journey, these practices are more than just self-congratulation. They are vital tools for reflection, motivation, and strategic planning. They remind you that every step, no matter how small, is a step towards greater success.

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Celebrating Small Wins: The Key to Big Success

Digital Success Tracking: Daily Journal with Notion

If you’ve followed me for any amount of time, I’m guessing you already know my love for Notion.  Designed with flexibility and user-friendliness, Notion combines notes, tasks, databases, and project management into a seamless interface.

Using Notion, you can keep a daily journal to keep track of gratitude, wins, challenges, and improvement.

Do a search on YouTube, and you’ll find more than one resource to learn more about Notion.

Using Notion to track daily successes came from Marie Poulen. Here is a link to her YouTube video where she talks about using notion as a daily journal. https://youtu.be/1Z06fqYhNgM?si=LUQ3L2BQJ_k74wcb

Marie has this genius little roll-up for the whole week for a simple weekly reflection, allowing a look back at your daily gratitude, wins, lows/challenges, or things that you could do better.

In addition, these roll up into a month recap that rolls up into a year recap. So you can see all of your information right there in one spot. I absolutely love the ability to go back and reflect on everything. It is all right there. One big roll-up of all the daily wins for encouragement and celebration!

Michele Duwe from Miss Task | Small Business Owner working at desk| Celebrating Small Wins: The Key to Big Success

Step Out of the Hurry

Finding joy in the small things is what breathes life into the daily hustle of running an online business. Without taking time to celebrate these moments, it's easy to get caught up in the endless rush, always moving from one task to the next, chasing the next big goal. However, it's crucial to pause and recognize the value in these little victories.

Taking time each day to reflect allows you to step out of this perpetual hurry. It’s about more than just a pause; it’s an opportunity to sit down, embrace joy, and celebrate the wins in your business, no matter their size. This practice isn’t just a break in your routine; it’s vital to nurturing your entrepreneurial spirit and reminding yourself why you embarked on this journey.

Acknowledging and embracing these achievements ensures that your business journey is as successful as it is fulfilling.

Other Options May Include

Now, let's circle back to other creative ways to celebrate and reflect on your wins. While a paper success journal is a classic choice, many other avenues exist to explore. How about a digital twist with a Google Doc? This can be a dynamic way to track your progress, accessible from anywhere at any time.

But the options don’t stop there. Consider these alternatives:

  • Digital Success Board: Create a digital success board where you visualize future goals and track your accomplishments. Tools like Canva or Milanote can be perfect for this.

  • Video Diary: In a digital era, why not keep a video diary? Record a short video each time you have a win. It’s a personal and lively way to capture the moment and your emotions. The app Day One allows you to create audio and video journal entries.
  • Social Media Shoutouts: Share your wins on social media. It’s not just about broadcasting your achievements; it’s about inspiring others and, perhaps, even starting conversations with fellow entrepreneurs.
  • Celebration Rituals: Establish small rituals to celebrate wins, like a special cup of coffee, a walk outside, or anything that signifies a moment of success for you.
  • Gratitude Lists: Keep a gratitude list where you note down what you're thankful for, including your business achievements. It helps keep things in perspective and cultivates a positive mindset.

Remember, each win, no matter its size, is a stepping stone in your entrepreneurial journey. They deserve recognition and celebration. So, find the method that resonates with you and make it a habit to acknowledge every achievement along the way!

Share Them

Social Media Shoutouts too much for your friend? Aww, I get it's not my style either; even so, don’t keep your wins to yourself; share what you’re celebrating with somebody and let them know that you’re super excited about what you've accomplished. Woohoo!

You set the goal, and you’ve been putting in the work to achieve it. Celebrate Friend!

You did it; you've finally gotten there. Be excited, share that with people, and let them share in your excitement.

Come on, Friend, why just be lackluster about all those small wins? Do you want to know what? Your little wins all add up to big accomplishments. They keep you moving forward and celebrate your win!

Time To Wrap This Up 🎁

Make it a habit to document your achievements, big or small, in a way that works for you. By putting them in writing, you create a valuable resource that you can revisit whenever you need an extra boost of motivation in your life or business.

I strongly encourage you to establish your own method of tracking successes. This could be anything from a simple success jar, where you drop notes of your accomplishments, to maintaining a paper journal. Alternatively, dive into digital tools like Notion, Evernote, or OneNote – choose the tool that best suits your style.

The key is to track and celebrate all your wins consistently. This practice becomes especially valuable on those challenging days, providing the encouragement we all need from time to time. 

There will always be moments of setbacks for every entrepreneur. Having a tangible reminder of your successes can make all the difference in pushing forward and maintaining your momentum.

Thank you so much for reading. I appreciate you, and I hope you have a wonderful week.

Book A 1-Hour Virtual Session

Discover the Secret to Effortless Content Creation –

From Overwhelmed to Thriving: Your Content Creation Simplified Journey Starts Here!