Build a business that fits your life (not the other way around)



What's the secret to building a side business that doesn't lead to burnout?

The secret isn't about working harder or doing all the things. It's about getting clear on two essentials—your why and your non-negotiables.

Let me show you how these can transform not just your business, but your entire life. And it all started with an unexpected lesson from a TV show...

I've never been a regular The Voice watcher, but when I heard Snoop was on, I had to check it out.

What keeps me coming back each week, though?

It's not the celebrity judges or even the incredible performances. It's the stories behind the contestants.

Every person stepping onto that stage has a different reason for being there—some are chasing a lifelong dream, others want to make their families proud, and some just want to share their passion with the world.

What struck me is how each contestant has a clear why—a reason that pushes them through the nerves and the competition.

And that's exactly what you need when you're building your side business.

Without a solid why, it's easy to get off track. But when you're clear on it, it becomes the thing that keeps you going, even when things get tough.

So, let's break this down into three steps that'll help you build a business that fits your life, not the other way around.

Step 1: Get Clear on Your Why

What's your why? For me, it's all about freedom—freedom of time and the ability to run my business on my terms.

After burning out from my 9-to-5 job, I wanted to build something that allowed me to control my schedule, spend more time with my family, and create financial security without feeling tied down.

Maybe your why is financial independence, more time with your family, or finally doing something you're passionate about.

Whatever it is, get clear on it and write it down.

This why will be your anchor on the tough days when you feel like giving up.


Step 2: Set Your Non-Negotiables

Now that you've got your why, let's talk about your non-negotiables.

These are the boundaries you set that protect your time and energy, so you can build a business that works for you.

Here are my two big ones:

1. No marketing on social media

I found that trying to keep up with social media was burning me out and making me dislike my business.

So I decided it's not worth it. No more stressing over algorithms or daily posting.

My business can grow without it, and I feel lighter because of this decision.

2. No 1:1 clients

Early on, I knew that working with individual clients would take up too much of my time and energy.

I wanted a flexible schedule, so I chose to focus on workshops and group offers instead of one-on-one coaching.

This way, I can serve more people without sacrificing my time.

What about you?

What are your non-negotiables?

Maybe you don't want to work weekends, or you need flexible hours to fit around your full-time job or personal life.

Whatever your boundaries are, write them down.

These will protect you from burnout and help you stay true to the life you want to create.


Step 3: Visualize Your Dream Life

With your why and non-negotiables in place, it's time to take it a step further.

What does your dream life look like when your business is up and running?

Maybe it's having mornings free to yourself, traveling more, or working from your favorite coffee shop while your kids are at school. Get specific!

Create a vision board or sketch out what your ideal lifestyle looks like.

When you can see the big picture, it becomes easier to make decisions that align with your goals and avoid distractions that don't serve you.


Set Yourself Up for Success

Building a side business comes with its challenges, but when you have your why, non-negotiables, and vision in place, you’re equipped to make decisions that truly reflect the life you want—not the one others expect.

To support you, I’ve created a Why & Non-Negotiables Worksheet to guide you step by step in clarifying your business vision. Click here to access the worksheet.

You’re not just growing a business—you’re crafting a life that fits you.

Take a few moments today to complete this exercise. You’ve got this!

Cheering you on🥂


Talk soon,

Kristina Portella, Business Strategist

Founder of Side Business Momentum

Where clarity meets momentum-for a business that truly fits your life.


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Pass it along to a fellow ambitious woman who could use these insights. She’ll be grateful!

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Side Business Clarity for Women

Every Friday, I’ll help you get clear on your next strategic move, so you can build momentum and grow a service-based side business that actually fits your life.

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