#116 From Stuck to Inspired: Building a Business That Fits Your Life | Caroline Biesalski

There’s a common myth that as a business owner, it’s your business, so you must do it all. Carolyn Bisaleeski’s journey shows just how limiting that mindset can be. A former accountant turned coach and author, Carolyn shared her story on More Than a Few Words about breaking free from micromanagement, finding clarity, and creating a business aligned with her true purpose. Her insights are a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck in a role they’ve outgrown.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

1. Recognizing the Red Flags
   Carolyn explained how feelings of dread, stress, and misalignment with her work signaled that she was no longer in the right place. For her, the daily grind became unbearable, and she realized it was time to reevaluate what she truly wanted.

2. The Power of Clarity
   Once Carolyn became clear on her goals, she made decisions quickly. Within a month, she let go of her accounting firm, resolved her commitments, and transitioned to a career that felt meaningful. Clarity, she said, makes decision-making straightforward.

3. Trust and Delegation
   A major hurdle for Carolyn was learning to trust others with her business. Her micromanaging tendencies were both a cause of stress and a barrier to growth. Letting go and building trust created space for transformation.

4. Creating a ‘Shopping List’ of Dreams
   Carolyn’s practical advice for gaining clarity? Write a “shopping list” of everything you want, even the seemingly impossible. This act helps push beyond comfort zones and visualize new possibilities.

5. Balancing Masculine and Feminine Energies
   Carolyn emphasized the importance of balancing action-driven "masculine" approaches with intuition and flow. This holistic mindset shift empowered her to navigate change and find joy in her work again.

Actionable Takeaway:
If your business no longer feels like the right fit, start by carving out 30 minutes to reflect. Write down your goals—no matter how far-fetched they seem. Use this clarity to make decisions that honor both your vision and yourself. Remember, you can build a business that works for you.

For more inspiration, check out Carolyn’s podcast, Inspired Choice, and her new book, Inspired Chronicles.

And if you enjoyed this conversation, be sure to check out More than a Few Words.