How to scale your startup for long-term success

It all started with the dog barking.

Just over seven years ago, I remember being at home with three kids, running two companies and bursting into tears every time the dog barked. Such a silly little thing, the dog barking. But it was my edge. I knew I was exhausted, overwhelmed and barely coping. If I didn’t change something drastically, I was convinced they’d carry me out in a body bag.

I was trying to be everything to everyone. I was supposed to know everything about running a million-dollar ecommerce brand, selling another business at the same time, being a mother to three little kids and a wife in a difficult marriage.

It was relentless and unbelievably stressful. That dog bark was my moment of recognition. I had to be honest with myself. I couldn’t keep going like that.

Recognizing the need for change

That moment of clarity set me on a journey to find a better way to balance building a business while being a kind, loving mother. I invested heavily in coaching programs and sought out high-level mentors around the world. I made immediate changes to my home life and how I ran my businesses.

I realized I couldn’t scale my business – or my life – without support. I hired admin staff to help with my business processes. I hired a cleaner for my home. I restructured my workweek to only 30 hours and stuck to it.

And guess what? My business grew as a result because I was more focused. My kids got better quality time with me. I felt happier.

Clarify your vision and goals

Scaling smart starts with clarity. Take the time to define what success looks like for your business in the next three, five or even 10 years.

For me, success became about more than turnover. It was about living a life I loved while growing my business. Whether you’re building your business to sell or you’re in it for the long haul, clear goals act as your guide rails, helping you prioritize opportunities and avoid distractions.

Ask yourself:

   ● Is your product or service ready for a wider audience?

   ● Do you have systems and automations in place to support increased demand?

   ● What are your non-negotiable values as you grow?

Businesses that scale successfully are those with a clear sense of purpose and direction.

Build systems, not bottlenecks

In those early years, I realized that trying to do it all was holding me back. One of the most significant mistakes startups make is failing to establish scalable systems. Automating repetitive tasks and delegating responsibilities are crucial for freeing up time to focus on big-picture growth.

I hired a team of 10 stay-at-home mothers working from their own homes across Australia. They helped grow my brand while I focused on what mattered most – both in my business and my personal life.

Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed to put systems in place. Start early and build with growth in mind.

Invest in a support team

Scaling isn’t a solo journey. Surrounding yourself with advisors, mentors and coaches is essential. I worked with mentors who had been where I was, and they helped me navigate the complexities of scaling. They taught me to focus on what I was best at and let go of the rest.

Whether it’s joining a coaching program, seeking guidance from experienced mentors or building a business network, surrounding yourself with successful people who have walked in your shoes can accelerate your growth exponentially.

Programs like those offered by SHE-com are invaluable resources for learning from the best while staying focused on your unique vision.

Focus on sustainable growth

When I started to scale my ecommerce brand, I made deliberate, sustainable choices. I said no to opportunities that didn’t align with my core goals. I focused on customer retention and smart cash flow management, ensuring that my growth was sustainable, not stressful.

Two years later, my business had grown to nearly US$2 million in turnover. I was working only 15 hours a week. I had time for horse riding, lunches with friends and attending every school event for my kids.

Scaling smart isn’t about hustling harder – it’s about creating systems, support and a clear path forward.

Adopt a growth mindset

Scaling a startup requires resilience, adaptability and a willingness to learn. I made mistakes along the way, but each one was an opportunity to grow.

Surrounding yourself with a support network – whether it’s a coach, a business community or a mentoring program – can help you stay grounded and focused. These relationships provide fresh perspectives and insights that you might not find on your own.

Scaling is a team effort

As the saying goes, "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together".

Scaling smart means understanding that no-one achieves success alone. Building the right team, investing in mentorship and establishing systems that work for you are all critical steps toward sustainable growth.

Looking back, I’m so grateful for the journey I’ve been on. My business thrived because I invested in myself and my team. Today, I spend my time helping and supporting other women to do the same.

You don’t have to reinvent the wheel. Take that first step, learn from those who’ve been there and remember: scaling isn’t just about growing bigger – it’s about growing better.

Opinions expressed by The CEO Magazine contributors are their own.