The Realities of Running a Business as a Female Entrepreneur: What No One Tells You
Starting a business is a dream many of us chase—the freedom to create, the potential for financial success, and the opportunity to build something meaningful.
But let’s get real for a second. Running a business as a female entrepreneur isn’t all Instagram-worthy office setups and perfectly curated branding shoots. It’s messy, exhausting, exhilarating, and sometimes downright overwhelming.
I started XO Creative Co. while working full-time in another industry, juggling my 9-5 with late-night design sessions and early morning client calls. It’s not always glamorous—I’ve answered emails on my lunch break, taken calls in my car, and spent weekends glued to my laptop. But here’s the thing: building something that’s truly yours is worth it. If you’re thinking about starting your own business or you’re already in the thick of it, here are some of the hard truths (and lessons) I’ve learned along the way.
If you’re a woman navigating the world of entrepreneurship, you know that it comes with unique challenges that no one really talks about. And if you’re thinking about starting your own business, buckle up, because this post is the honest truth about what it’s really like to build and run a successful brand as a female entrepreneur.
1. You Will Battle Imposter Syndrome Daily
But, you can’t let it win. No matter how talented or experienced you are, imposter syndrome will creep in. That little voice in your head will whisper things like, “Who do you think you are to charge this much?” or “You’re not as good as [insert successful entrepreneur here].”
I’ve been there—more times than I can count. When I first launched my business, I worried that no one would take me seriously. And truthfully, most days I still do. But over time, I realized that confidence comes from action. The more projects I completed, the more client wins I celebrated, the quieter that voice became. If you’re struggling with imposter syndrome, remember: you don’t have to be perfect to be successful, you just have to keep going.
2. Your Personal and Business Life Will Blend (Whether You Like It or Not)
One of the biggest myths about running a business is the idea of “work-life balance” especially when you may also be working full-time. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t exist, at least not in the traditional sense.
As a female entrepreneur, you’ll find that your business and personal life blur together. There’s no magic off-switch at 5 PM. You’ll answer emails at family gatherings, brainstorm branding ideas while making dinner, and spend late nights working on your website because inspiration struck. When you’re passionate about what you do, it’s easy to let work spill into every area of your life. Suddenly, your laptop is permanently stationed on your couch, and “just one more email” turns into an all-nighter. The trick isn’t about separating the two—it’s about integrating them in a way that aligns with your values.
If you’re in the branding for female entrepreneurs space, you know the importance of setting boundaries with clients and carving out intentional time for yourself. Burnout is real, and prioritizing rest is just as important as hitting your revenue goals. I won’t lie—there have been seasons where I’ve let work consume me. But I’ve learned that setting boundaries is crucial. Now, I schedule specific “off” hours where I step away from my business. Trust me, your creativity and sanity will thank you.
3. Financial Uncertainty Is Part of the Game
Unlike a 9-to-5 job with a steady paycheck, entrepreneurship is a financial rollercoaster. Some months, you’ll feel unstoppable—closing deals, booking clients, and watching your bank account grow. Other months? Crickets.
No one tells you just how much emotional resilience it takes to navigate financial highs and lows. But here’s the thing: every successful female entrepreneur has been there. Creating a modern brand identity and positioning yourself as a go-to expert in your field takes time. The key is to budget wisely, diversify your income streams, and always have a plan for slower months.
4. People Won’t Always Take You Seriously (But That’s Their Problem, Not Yours)
Despite all the progress women have made in business, we still face outdated biases. Clients may assume you’re “just doing this for fun.” Some people will expect you to charge less simply because you’re a woman. Others will assume your husband, partner, or family is funding your business.
It’s frustrating. But the best way to prove them wrong? Show up, deliver exceptional results, and run your business with confidence. Your talent and expertise speak louder than outdated stereotypes.
5. Finding Mentors and Business Besties is a Game-Changer
Running a business can feel lonely, especially if your friends and family don’t fully understand what you do. That’s why finding mentors and business besties is so important. Having people in your corner who get the struggles and wins of entrepreneurship makes all the difference.
When I started XO Creative Co., I didn’t know many other business owners. But over time, I connected with other female entrepreneurs, joined mastermind groups, and found mentors (Hi Mariah Althoff!) who helped me navigate the challenges. Having a support system makes those tough days easier and the wins even sweeter.
6. Success Takes Time (And That’s Okay!)
We all love a good overnight success story, but the reality? Most businesses take years to grow. You might not book dream clients right away, and that’s okay. Growth takes time, and consistency is everything.
There are months when I wonder if my business will ever be more than just a side hustle. But every project, every happy client, and every lesson learned has been a stepping stone. Keep showing up, refining your skills, and believing in what you offer. The success will come.
7. Success Looks Different for Everyone
Forget the idea that success means hitting six figures in your first year or working non-stop to build an empire. Success isn’t one-size-fits-all. Maybe for you, it means financial freedom. Maybe it’s having the flexibility to pick your kids up from school. Maybe it’s creating a brand that makes a real impact.
As you build your business, define what success looks like on your terms. The beauty of entrepreneurship is that you get to create a life and career that aligns with your values and vision.
8. The Freedom is Worth the Hustle
Despite the challenges, I wouldn’t trade this journey for anything. The ability to create, work with amazing clients, and build something that aligns with my passion and values is worth every late night and self-doubt spiral.
If you’re on this journey, know that you’re not alone. Keep pushing forward, find your people, and don’t be afraid to bet on yourself. You’re capable of more than you realize, and the business of your dreams is within reach.
Final Thoughts
Running a business as a female entrepreneur is no joke. It’s a wild, challenging, and incredibly rewarding journey. You’ll face self-doubt, financial stress, and people who underestimate you. But you’ll also experience the thrill of building something from the ground up, the joy of working with clients who truly appreciate your expertise, and the freedom to create a business that aligns with your vision.
At XO Creative Co., I believe in empowering women to show up confidently in their businesses. Whether you need professional branding services or a kick-ass website that truly reflects who you are, I am here to help you build something that feels authentic, intentional, and uniquely yours. And, be your biggest cheerleader along the way!
So, to all the women out there hustling, dreaming, and making things happen—keep going. The world needs what you have to offer.
Need help crafting a brand that aligns with your vision?
Let’s work together to build a brand that reflects your authenticity and attracts your dream clients. Learn more about working with me today!