3 Business Myths Holding You Back as a One-Person Business Owner (and What to Do Instead)

If I had a pound for every time I saw an online business guru shouting about their "secret formula" or "the only way to succeed," I wouldn't need to work another day in my life.

And sure, you're free to believe them if you want.

But let's be honest: not all business advice is created equal. Some of it, especially what gets shouted at us through flashy marketing and funnel hacks, is utter nonsense.

I've never claimed to have the one secret sauce that will fix every business.

But what I will stand behind, unapologetically, is calling out the BS that gets presented as universal truth.

Because when you're a one-person business owner, a freelancer, a solopreneur, an entrepreneur wearing all the hats, that kind of advice can be actively harmful.

So today, I want to talk about three very common myths I see repeated again and again online, and why I believe they might be holding you back from not just business growth, but long-term sustainability, wellbeing, and actual enjoyment in your work.

🌟 Myth 1: You have to hustle and grind to be successful

Even when things are going well, you're paying yourself, covering your expenses, maybe even investing back into your business, many freelancers and solo founders still feel they have to give 110% every single day.

This belief is rooted in hustle culture. We glorify workaholics and wear exhaustion like a badge of honour. But the reality?

If you’re burnt out, constantly stressed, or struggling to get out of bed in the morning, that’s not success, no matter how much money you’re bringing in.

Instead, start designing your version of success around time, energy, and sustainability.

Ask questions like:

• How many hours a week do I want to work?

• Do I want to work weekends? (Hint: HARD NO.)

• What are my non-negotiables?

  
  

This is where a framework, not another rigid business plan, comes in. A good business framework for solopreneurs gives you structure and breathing space. It helps you grow in a way that feels good, not soul-sucking.

🌟 Myth 2: Rest is a luxury you earn after hitting certain revenue milestones

This one feels sneaky because it sounds logical. Work hard now, rest later. Except… that rest? It never seems to arrive.

Your ability to show up at your best is directly linked to your ability to rest. There’s no business success without a sustainable, human behind it. And you, as a one-person business owner, are the business.

Many freelancers fall into the trap of believing that time off must be earned. But if the business you’re building requires you to sacrifice your health, your relationships, and your sanity… is that really a business worth building?

Time off isn’t a reward. It’s a necessary part of building something sustainable.

⏳ Myth 3: It’ll all be worth it when you reach the goal

This myth kept me stuck for years. I used to tell myself, "Sure, this is hard, but it'll all be worth it when I hit that goal."

The revenue target. The launch. The next client.

But here’s the problem: as soon as you hit that goal, you move the goalpost.

You don’t need to burn out now for the sake of some mythical future freedom. You can build that freedom today, with boundaries, systems, and smart strategy.

Ask yourself:

• What do I want my evenings to feel like?

• How many clients do I want to serve each week?

• What would a calm, streamlined week actually look like?

  
  

It might not be sexy or flashy. But it will keep you well, consistent, and fulfilled for the long haul.

What to do instead

If you’re seeing hustle-glorifying advice online that just doesn’t sit right with you, trust that instinct.

Here’s what I believe we actually need as solopreneurs and freelancers:

• Grounded, strategic business systems that work with our energy, not against it

• Realistic structure that makes space for life outside of work

• Strong foundations to build long-term success, without burning out

  
  

Or, as James Clear puts it:

If you’ve been setting big goals and still feeling stuck, overwhelmed or out of alignment… it might be time to take a step back and build the systems that will carry you.

That’s exactly what we do inside my 1:1 program.

Want support building a more sustainable business?

Right now, I’ve got space for two new 1:1 clients.

Inside the program, we’ll work together to:

• Systemise and streamline your entire business

• Take the pressure off

• Claim back a full working day every week

• All without losing revenue or sacrificing your wellbeing

  
  

📅 Doors close Thursday 3rd July.

Check out the program details here

Or if you’d prefer to chat it through: Book a free 30-minute call with me, no pressure, just a conversation.

You don’t need another "secret method."

You need a business that’s actually built for you.

Let’s make it happen together.

Rosie ✨