Why Your Business Isn’t Growing: 5 Hidden Blockers

September 23, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Running a business is hard work—but harder doesn’t always mean better. Many small business owners in the Coachella Valley find themselves working longer hours, juggling endless tasks, and putting out fires every day, yet growth still feels out of reach.

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. And more importantly, there’s a reason for it.

Busy Doesn’t Equal Productive

It’s easy to confuse busyness with progress. But endless to-do lists, late nights, and constant “react mode” don’t actually move your business forward. Instead, they keep you running in circles.

The key to growth isn’t working harder; it’s working differently.

5 Hidden Reasons Your Business Isn’t Growing

If your business isn’t growing, one or more of these common roadblocks might be holding you back:

You’re the bottleneck
Everything still flows through you because you don’t fully trust anyone else. That slows everything down.
No clear systems
All the knowledge lives in your head instead of documented processes that your team can follow.
Incomplete delegation
You hand off tasks but don’t let go of control, which keeps you tethered to every outcome.
Lack of measurable goals
Without tracking key performance indicators (KPIs), you’re just guessing at progress.
Mindset fatigue
Burnout disguised as grit can drag on for months—or years—and quietly keep you from moving forward.

Every business owner has faced at least some of these blockers. The good news? They’re fixable.

The CEO Shift: From Doer to Designer

The turning point comes when you stop being the “doer” and start being the “designer” of your business. That means creating systems and processes that don’t rely on you, hiring carefully and training well, and stepping in only when something falls outside the norm.

One powerful example? A client who built strong systems and a trustworthy team was able to take a three-week vacation without checking email once. And the business ran beautifully without them. That’s the difference between surviving in your business and stepping into your role as CEO.

Quick Wins to Get Unstuck

Growth doesn’t have to start with a massive overhaul. Here are a few small but powerful actions you can take this week:

Track your time for one week to see where it really goes.
Document one recurring task—it’s a start to building systems.
Fire one misaligned client who drains your energy.
Outsource a simple admin task.
Set one SMART goal for the next 30 days.
Block out two hours next week for strategy (and protect that time).
Schedule your first “CEO Day,” even if it’s only a couple of hours.

Small steps lead to lasting freedom.

Final Thoughts

If your business feels stuck, remember: you’re not alone, and you’re not failing. These growth blockers are a normal stage in the business lifecycle.

But you don’t have to stay there. By shifting your mindset, creating systems, and stepping into the CEO role, you’ll set your business up for true growth—and give yourself the freedom you deserve.

As the saying goes: “What got you here won’t get you there.” The next stage of growth requires a new way of working.

Ready for Your Next Step?

If this struck a chord, I invite you to join me in the 5 Day Freedom Challenge

In just five days, you’ll:

Uncover where your time is really going.
Identify the hidden blockers keeping you stuck.
Learn how to build simple systems that free you instead of draining you.

It’s time to stop surviving in your business—and start building the freedom you deserve.

FAQ Section

Q: How do I know if I’m the bottleneck in my business?
A: If every decision, task, or approval requires your involvement, you’re likely the bottleneck. The first step is identifying what could be systemized or delegated so progress doesn’t stall without you.

Q: What’s the fastest way to start building systems?
A: Begin by documenting one recurring task in detail. Even small processes—like how you onboard a client or send invoices—can be turned into repeatable systems that save time and reduce errors.

Q: How can burnout affect business growth?
A: Burnout clouds judgment, drains energy, and keeps you in survival mode. When you’re exhausted, it’s nearly impossible to step back and make the strategic decisions that drive growth. Recognizing burnout is the first step toward overcoming it.

Q: Can small business owners really step away without losing clients?
A: Yes—when systems and processes are in place, clients often feel more supported, not less. Clear systems ensure consistent service even when the owner isn’t directly involved.

Q: What is the “CEO Day” and why is it important?
A: A CEO Day is dedicated time to step back and focus on strategy instead of daily tasks. Even just a few hours a month helps you focus on growth, not just survival.

The 5-Day Freedom Challenge: Reclaim Your Time, Reclaim Your Freedom

September 16, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

If you’re a small business owner, chances are your day never really ends. Between answering emails, juggling client requests, chasing down details, and putting out fires, you’re probably working harder than ever — but still wondering where your time is going.

Here’s the truth: You don’t need to work more hours. You need better systems.

That’s exactly why I created the 5-Day Freedom Challenge — a private, one-to-one experience designed to help you eliminate wasted time, automate repetitive tasks, and finally reclaim your freedom.

And the best part? It’s 100% free.

What Is the 5-Day Freedom Challenge?

For five focused days, we’ll work together one-on-one for about 45 minutes each day. No group calls, no generic advice — just personalized solutions for your business.

This is not about theory. It’s about implementation. Each day, we’ll spot time drains, fix them fast, and install simple automations you can use right away. By Day 5, you’ll have more clarity, more control, and more time back in your week.

What You’ll Walk Away With

At the end of your five days, you’ll have:

A personalized time-saving plan designed just for your business
Redundant tasks identified and eliminated
Automation “quick wins” you can deploy immediately
Templates and tools I’ve used to run Executive Errands® and Concierge Business Solutions®
A renewed sense of clarity, control, and freedom in your day

These aren’t ideas you’ll file away and forget. They’re practical, real-world changes you’ll implement right away — and feel the difference immediately.

Why Only 3 Spots Per Week?

To keep this experience transformational, I limit the challenge to just three private spots per week. This ensures you get my full attention — not a crowded group session where your unique struggles get lost in the shuffle.

If this week is full, you can select the next available week. But don’t wait — spots disappear quickly.

Why Work With Me 5-Day Freedom Challenge?

For more than 30 years, I’ve consulted with aerospace companies, where efficiency is non-negotiable. And for the last 20 years, I’ve run Executive Errands®, managing complex operations for high-net-worth clients. Along the way, I developed the proprietary workflow software that powers Concierge Business Solutions®.

My superpower? Spotting wasted time and fixing it with simple processes and automation.

When it comes to reclaiming your freedom, I don’t just talk about it — I’ve built entire businesses around it.

What Makes This Challenge Different

No theory. You’ll walk away with systems you can use right now.
No group calls. This is all about you and your business.
No waiting. You’ll see wins starting Day 1.

And because it’s free, you’ve got nothing to lose — except wasted time.

Ready to Reclaim Your Freedom?

This isn’t just another workshop. This is a hands-on, one-to-one challenge that delivers immediate results. But remember — only three spots are available each week.

👉 Reserve your private 5-Day Freedom Challenge spot now

It’s time to eliminate redundancy, automate what you can, and give yourself the freedom you’ve been craving. You deserve to run your business — not let it run you.

FAQ: The 5-Day Freedom Challenge

Is this really free?
Yes! There’s no cost and no credit card required. I’m investing in your transformation because I know once you experience the results, you won’t want to go back to “business as usual.”

How much time do I need to commit?
Just 45 minutes a day for 5 days. That’s it. And those 45 minutes will save you hours each week going forward.

What if I can’t start this week?
No problem. If this week is full, you can book the next available week. But don’t wait too long — spots fill quickly.

Who is this for?
Small business owners who feel stuck in the day-to-day grind, drowning in repetitive tasks, and ready to reclaim control of their time.

🚀 Don’t let another week slip by filled with busywork and burnout. Join me for the 5-Day Freedom Challenge and see how much lighter, easier, and more productive your business can be.

👉 Click here to claim your spot today.

10 Lessons Every Small Business Owner in the Coachella Valley Should Know

10 Small Business Lessons Coachella Valley Owners Must Know

September 9, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Running a small business is exciting, rewarding, and—let’s be honest—a little overwhelming. Many entrepreneurs discover the most important small business lessons Coachella Valley owners face only after years of trial and error. Success takes more than passion; it requires balancing your expertise with systems, strategy, and mindset.

To help you avoid learning everything the hard way, here are ten business lessons that every small business owner should know—shared from years of experience working with local businesses across Palm Springs, Palm Desert, La Quinta, and beyond.

10 Small Business Lessons Coachella Valley Entrepreneurs Can’t Ignore

1. You’re Not Just Selling a Service — You’re Building a Business

Being great at your craft is only part of the equation. If you’re spending all your time “doing the work” without processes or a plan, you’re not running a business—you’re running yourself ragged.
Takeaway: Treat your business like a business from day one. Build systems, policies, and infrastructure early.

2. Cash Flow Is King

Profit looks good on paper, but cash flow is what actually pays the bills.
Takeaway: Charge what you’re worth, budget wisely, and send invoices on time. A steady cash flow will keep your business stable.

3. Busy Doesn’t Equal Successful

Working 12-hour days doesn’t always mean growth. It usually means exhaustion.
Takeaway: Delegate tasks, automate where possible, and don’t underestimate the power of rest.

4. Not Every Customer Is a Good Fit

Saying yes to every client often leads to frustration, low margins, and burnout.
Takeaway: Define your ideal client and stick to it. Saying “no” protects your time and your business.

5. Marketing Is Non-Negotiable

“If I build it, they will come” might work in Hollywood—but not in business.
Takeaway: Consistent marketing is essential. Show up online, share valuable content, and stay visible to your local audience in the Coachella Valley.

6. You Can’t Do It All Alone

Entrepreneurs often try to juggle everything. That’s a fast track to burnout.
Takeaway: Outsource, hire, or collaborate. Focus on what you do best and let others handle the rest.

7. Systems Save Your Sanity

Winging it is not a growth strategy. Without reliable systems, growth stalls quickly.
Takeaway: Implement scheduling, billing, client communication, and workflow systems. Concierge Business Solutions® offers Essential Elements™, designed to streamline operations for small businesses.

8. Mindset Matters as Much as Strategy

Entrepreneurship is rewarding, but it’s also lonely, stressful, and full of self-doubt.
Takeaway: Invest in your mindset. Surround yourself with mentors, peers, and resources that understand your challenges.

9. Success Takes Longer Than You Think

Most “overnight successes” you see have been 7–10 years in the making.
Takeaway: Stay patient. Keep learning, stay consistent, and stop comparing your journey to someone else’s highlight reel.

10. Time Is Your Most Valuable Asset

You can earn back lost money, but you can never get back lost time.
Takeaway: Protect your schedule, prioritize high-value work, and take real vacations without your laptop.

Skip the Learning Curve with the 5-Day to Freedom Challenge

If these insights sound familiar, you’re not alone. These are the exact small business lessons Coachella Valley entrepreneurs struggle with every day. But with the right support, you can skip the learning curve and build the business you imagined.

That’s why Concierge Business Solutions® created the 5-Day to Freedom Challenge. In just one hour a day, you will:

Uncover what’s keeping you stuck in the weeds
Learn how to build a business that runs without you
Gain practical tools to reclaim your time and sanity
Leave with an Action Plan tailored to your goals

It’s completely free and designed to fit your schedule.

👉 Ready to get started? Email info@conciergebusinesssolutions.com

Why Every Business Should Consider a Podcast (And Why You Should Be Listening to Ours)

Why Every Small Business in the Coachella Valley Should Consider a Podcast

August 26, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

In today’s crowded marketplace, getting noticed isn’t easy. Your competitors are everywhere—on social media, YouTube, in newsletters, running paid ads—and the noise just keeps getting louder.

So how do you cut through it and make your business stand out?

Start a podcast.

Yes, really.

A podcast is more than a trendy marketing tool. For small business owners in the Coachella Valley, it’s one of the most effective ways to share your story, establish your expertise, and create a genuine connection with your audience. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur in Palm Desert or leading a small team in La Quinta, a podcast can become the literal voice of your business.

Why Podcasting Works for Small Businesses

Podcasts offer something most marketing tools can’t—time and trust.

Your audience can listen while commuting down Highway 111, walking the dog in Palm Springs, cleaning the house in Indio, or waiting for the kids at baseball practice in Cathedral City. It’s passive consumption with active engagement.

The more they hear your voice, your stories, and your advice, the more they trust you. And trust is what transforms a listener into a loyal customer.

At Concierge Business Solutions, we’ve seen how podcasting can position you as:

The go-to expert in your niche
A relatable, approachable business owner—not just a brand name
A consistent source of valuable, reliable content

And the benefits don’t stop there. Podcasting is low-cost to start, episodes remain discoverable for years, and each one can be shared across multiple platforms for maximum reach.

Local Example: Twisted, Bent and Exhausted

Need proof? Take a look at our own podcast, Twisted, Bent and Exhausted: The Weekly Guide to Sanity and Success. Available on Spotify and YouTube, this show is our raw, unfiltered, and often humorous take on running a business, surviving entrepreneurship, and thriving despite the chaos.

We talk about topics every Coachella Valley business owner can relate to, including:

Scaling without losing your mind
Managing client expectations
Pricing with confidence
Building systems so you can finally take a vacation

No scripts. No corporate jargon. Just real conversations about wins, failures, burnout, mindset—and everything in between.

Why You Should Listen

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed, underpaid, or stuck working in your business instead of on it, Twisted, Bent and Exhausted is for you.

It’s not just advice—it’s coaching in your ears. It’s permission to laugh at how challenging entrepreneurship can be. And it’s designed to help business owners from Palm Springs to Coachella stay motivated, inspired, and moving forward.

Ready to Launch Your Own Podcast?

Whether you want to start your own podcast or simply want to learn how this marketing tool can help your business grow, Concierge Business Solutions can help. We’ve been supporting entrepreneurs in the Coachella Valley for nearly two decades, offering business consulting, strategic planning, and hands-on guidance to help you work smarter, not harder.

Listen to Twisted, Bent and Exhausted today—you might find the clarity, motivation, or spark you’ve been missing. And if it inspires you to start your own show? Even better. We’re here for it.

Contact Leslie Spoor at Concierge Business Solutions to learn more about how a podcast can fit into your marketing strategy.

Don’t Let Your Website Get You Sued – Chatbots, ADA Compliance, and the Modern Business Website

Why ADA Compliance Matters for Your Website

August 5, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

In today’s digital-first world, your website is often your first impression—and sometimes, your only one. If it’s outdated, confusing, or hard to navigate, you could be losing business before you ever get the chance to make a pitch. Even worse? You could be putting your business at legal risk.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, we work with small businesses throughout the Coachella Valley to help them modernize, streamline, and protect their operations—including their websites. Two of the most critical (yet often overlooked) upgrades you can make right now are adding a chatbot and ensuring ADA compliance.

Chatbots: Your 24/7 Digital Concierge

Think chatbots are just for major corporations? Think again.

A chatbot acts as your always-on assistant. It welcomes visitors to your website, answers their questions, helps them find services, collects contact information, and even books appointments—all while you sleep.

Whether you’re a local service provider in Palm Desert or a boutique shop in La Quinta, a chatbot can help you:

Answer FAQs instantly
Guide users to the right services
Collect lead information
Schedule calls or consultations
Provide support without extra staff

And the best part? You don’t need expensive AI tools to get started. Even a basic rule-based chatbot can dramatically improve your website’s performance and visitor satisfaction.

ADA Compliance: More Than Just a Checkbox

Many business owners in the Coachella Valley don’t realize that their website is legally considered a “public-facing” space—and that means it must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

This includes:

Screen reader compatibility for the visually impaired
Keyboard navigation for those who can’t use a mouse
Sufficient color contrast for readability
Closed captions for video content

Failure to meet these requirements can lead to expensive lawsuits—even for small businesses. In recent years, thousands of ADA compliance lawsuits have been filed, with settlements often reaching into the five figures. The risk is real, but thankfully, it’s preventable.

The Win-Win: Accessibility and SEO

ADA-compliant websites don’t just reduce legal risk—they also perform better in search engines.

Google favors clean, well-structured, accessible websites. That means improving accessibility also boosts your SEO, helping you reach more clients right here in the Coachella Valley and beyond.

Not Sure Where to Start?

There are online tools that can scan your site and identify compliance issues. Fixes are often simpler than you think—and we’re happy to connect you with trusted professionals who can help.

Final Thoughts: Don’t Let an Outdated Website Hold You Back

If your website hasn’t had a tune-up since before the pandemic, it’s time for a refresh. Here’s your checklist:

✅ Add a chatbot to capture leads around the clock
✅ Make your website ADA-compliant to avoid risk
✅ Update your content and design to reflect the business you’ve become

Your website should be your hardest-working employee—not your weakest link.

Need Help? Let’s Talk.
At Concierge Business Solutions®, we specialize in helping small business owners across the Coachella Valley take control of their systems, processes, and growth. If you’re ready to bring your website into the modern era, contact Leslie Spoor today at LSpoor@conciergebusinesssolutions.com.

Start a Business Smart, Scale Fast: The Foundation Every Entrepreneur Needs

Start Smart, Scale Fast: The Foundation Every Entrepreneur Needs

July 30, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

If you’ve ever dreamed of starting your own business—or if you’re already knee-deep in it—you probably know it’s a bit like jumping into the deep end without checking if the pool has water. The excitement is real, but so is the risk of smacking your head on the bottom if you don’t prepare.

After nearly 20 years helping entrepreneurs build businesses that don’t run them ragged, I’ve seen what works and what definitely doesn’t. Let’s get one thing straight: success isn’t about flashy logos, shiny websites, or endless social media posts. It’s about laying a rock-solid foundation from day one.

Here are the 10 absolutely essential steps you need to take if you want your business to survive—and thrive—without driving you crazy.

1️⃣ Nail Your Idea & Value Proposition

Before you spend a dime, answer these questions:

What problem are you solving?
Who exactly has this problem (your ideal customer)?
Why would they pay you instead of doing it themselves or choosing someone else?

If you can’t answer these three questions clearly, you don’t have a business—just a hobby with invoices.

2️⃣ Do Basic Market Research

This doesn’t mean you need a 100-page MBA report. But you do need to know:

Who your competitors are and what they do well (and poorly).
Whether people will actually buy your product or service at the price you need to make a profit.
What makes you different—because if you’re just like everyone else, you’ll fight for scraps.

3️⃣ Choose a Legal Structure & Register

You can’t just call yourself a business because you printed some business cards. Choose your legal entity (LLC, corporation, or sole proprietorship), get your business license, register for an EIN, and secure any local permits. This step protects you legally and builds credibility with clients.

4️⃣ Set Up Financial Systems Early

Trust me—nothing sinks new businesses faster than a cash flow mess. Open a separate business bank account so you don’t commingle funds. Get basic accounting software or hire a bookkeeper. Know your expenses and set prices that ensure a healthy profit margin—guessing will leave you broke.

5️⃣ Document Your Core Processes

This is the step nearly every entrepreneur skips. Why? Because it’s boring. But guess what? If everything lives in your head, you’re the bottleneck—and you’ll never be able to delegate or grow. Write down simple, repeatable procedures for how you:

Make sales
Deliver services or products
Handle client communication
Manage billing and payments

This is how you build a business that can run without you being there every minute of every day.

6️⃣ Create a Minimal Online Presence

You don’t need a $20,000 website, but you do need a professional one. Here’s what’s non-negotiable:

A branded domain name and matching email (no more yourbusiness@gmail.com).
A basic website that clearly says who you help, what you do, and how to get in touch.
A Google Business Profile if you have local clients—because that’s how people find you.

7️⃣ Plan & Execute a Sales Strategy

This step separates dreamers from doers. You need a plan for how you’ll get your first paying clients—and you need to work it every single week. Whether it’s networking, outreach, ads, partnerships, or asking for referrals, consistent sales activity is the lifeblood of your business.

8️⃣ Deliver Outstanding Service

Great marketing might get you your first clients, but great service is what will keep them coming back—and raving about you to everyone they know. Have a plan for how you’ll deliver what you promised, when you promised it. The fastest way to grow? Turn clients into your best marketing team.

9️⃣ Insure & Protect Your Business

Don’t skip this. Get insurance appropriate to your business (general liability, professional liability, workers’ comp, etc.). If you provide services, use contracts that spell out exactly what you will—and won’t—do, and what each party’s rights and responsibilities are.

🔟 Commit to Ongoing Improvement

Even after you launch, you’re not done. Schedule regular reviews of your finances, operations, and marketing. Look at what’s working, what’s not, and adjust. Keep learning—read books, join groups, or hire a coach—because the world moves fast, and businesses that don’t adapt get left behind.

Bonus: Discipline is Your Secret Weapon

The difference between successful entrepreneurs and wannabes isn’t intelligence, luck, or a giant bank account. It’s the discipline to do these boring but necessary things, day in and day out, especially when it’s uncomfortable.

Too Many Decisions? Overwhelmed at the Thought?

You don’t have to do this alone. At Concierge Business Solutions®, we’ve helped hundreds of entrepreneurs build businesses that don’t just survive—but give them the freedom they dreamed of when they first took the leap.

Whether you need help refining your idea, setting up your systems, pricing for profit, documenting your processes, or planning your sales strategy, our business coaching services are here to guide you every step of the way.

Let us help you build a business that doesn’t chain you to your desk 24/7. One that runs smoothly, supports your life, and gives you the freedom you deserve.

📅 Schedule your free consultation today at Book with Me
or
📧 Email me directly at LSpoor@conciergebusinesssolutions.com

Or, if you already have this foundation in place—like the edges of a puzzle—let us help you put the middle pieces together so you can build a business that truly runs without you. Our Freedom by Design course gives you step-by-step guidance to operational independence, with practical systems and strategies you can implement right away.

Let’s turn your dream into a business that works for you—not the other way around.

You Can’t Scale What You Haven’t Documented: Build Your Process, Then Delegate Your Way to Freedom!

Documented Processes: The Key to Scaling Your Business

July 15, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Let’s talk about one of the biggest myths in small business: the idea that if you just hustle hard enough, everything will magically fall into place. Spoiler alert—it won’t. You can’t hustle your way to a scalable, self-sufficient business. You need documented processes. Why? Because you can’t scale what you haven’t documented!

Here’s a hard truth: If every task, every client interaction, every invoice, and every internal procedure lives only in your head, you’ve built a business that can’t grow beyond what you personally have the bandwidth to do. And, let’s be honest, your brain is already operating like a browser with 76 tabs open—half of which are frozen.

When you don’t document, you can’t delegate. And if you can’t delegate, you’ll never be able to step away from the day-to-day grind. Remember when I worked 36-hour stretches, fell asleep at my desk, or hauled my laptop on my honeymoon? I’ve been there—and it’s a one-way ticket to burnout. The moment I started writing things down, creating repeatable systems, and teaching them to others, everything changed. Suddenly, I could focus on growing the business instead of drowning in it.

Documentation Isn’t Glamorous—But It’s Pure Gold

I know what you’re thinking: “Leslie, writing down procedures sounds about as exciting as watching paint dry.” And you’re right—documenting your processes isn’t glamorous. But neither is working yourself into an early grave because no one else knows what you know. When you document your systems, you unlock your ability to train others, create consistent results, and build a business that doesn’t collapse the second you step away for a vacation (or, let’s be real, even just a weekend off).

I’ve seen businesses double and triple their revenue just by getting organized and creating step-by-step guides for what they do every day. Processes are the puzzle pieces that turn your business from chaos into a well-oiled machine.

Introducing Essential Elements™: The Secret Weapon for Scaling Your Business

You don’t have to build these systems alone—and you definitely don’t need to manage them on sticky notes or random spreadsheets. That’s why I created Essential Elements™, our powerful ERP software built specifically for Lifestyle Management companies, concierge services, and other small businesses that need more than a generic CRM.

Essential Elements™ isn’t some clunky off-the-shelf tool. It’s the system I personally developed after decades of wrangling a million moving parts in my own business—and then completely overhauled it with a fresh, modern interface and new features our clients have been begging for.

Here’s what makes Essential Elements™ a complete game changer:

✅ Centralized Client & Project Management – Keep everything about your clients, projects, vendors, and tasks in one easy-to-navigate place.

✅ Automated Billing & Retainers – Save hours every month with built-in time tracking and automated invoices. Our new retainer billing is a lifesaver for recurring clients.

✅ Calendar & Scheduling – Manage visits, meetings, and jobs seamlessly so you don’t drop the ball (or forget an appointment).

✅ System User Procedures Included – No more wondering how to use your new software. We provide step-by-step documentation for every feature, so you (and your team) can hit the ground running.

✅ Ongoing Upgrades Included – Your monthly subscription covers all future upgrades. You’ll never have to pay extra for new features or worry about falling behind.

✅ Backups & Server Fees? Covered! – Your data is secure, automatically backed up, and hosted on reliable servers. You don’t have to lift a finger.

✅ One-Time Setup & Training – We’ll customize Essential Elements™ to your business, provide hands-on training, and make sure every user knows exactly what to do.

This isn’t just software. It’s a complete business management system that turns your documentation into actionable workflows so you can finally delegate with confidence and watch your business grow without you having to do everything yourself.

Why Wait? The Best Time to Document Was Yesterday—The Next Best Time is Now

Every day you operate without documented processes is another day you’re stuck playing whack-a-mole with problems that shouldn’t even exist. Essential Elements™ makes documentation easy by turning what you do into repeatable, teachable systems—and giving you the power to automate, delegate, and scale.

If you’ve been looking for a sign to stop reinventing the wheel and start building a business that can run itself, this is it. Don’t let another year slip by without giving yourself the freedom you deserve.

🚀 Book Your Free Demo Today

Ready to see how Essential Elements™ can revolutionize your business? Let’s hop on a call so I can show you exactly how this system works—and how it can give you back your time, sanity, and weekends.

👉 Click here to schedule your free demo
or
👉 Sign up now to get started with Essential Elements™

Let’s document, delegate, and scale your business together—so you can finally build the life (and the freedom) you started your business for in the first place.

Tempus Fugit – Time Flies (and So Do We, If We’re Not Careful)

June 18, 2025/in Blog/by Susan Boteler

As small business owners, we tend to pour everything we have into our work—our energy, our focus, and most importantly, our time. In the early stages, it’s all-hands-on-deck, just trying to get the business off the ground. Later, we’re so entrenched in the day-to-day that we forget to come up for air.

Before we know it, we’ve lost track of balance—personal time, family time, fun time. Life becomes a series of tasks and checklists, and somehow, months pass without us even noticing.

Sound familiar?

This isn’t a judgment. It’s a reality check. We don’t start businesses to feel burnt out and disconnected—but that’s exactly what happens when we let the routine take over. And routine, while necessary to a degree, can be the biggest thief of time.

There’s a Latin phrase that sums this up perfectly: Tempus Fugit – Time Flies.

Have you ever wondered why time seems to pass faster the older we get?

Remember when we were kids? We’d count down the days to summer vacation, convinced the school year would never end. Time was slow because we were always looking forward to something—birthday parties, beach trips, sleepovers, or even just the weekend.

But somewhere along the way, we lost that sense of anticipation.

As adults, life got complicated. We traded carefree afternoons for calendars full of meetings. Once work, marriage, kids, and obligations entered the picture, our lives became tightly scheduled. We bounce from task to task, appointment to appointment, email to email—and suddenly, entire seasons slip by unnoticed. “Didn’t we just take down the holiday lights?”

It’s not that we’re doing anything wrong—it’s that we’re doing so much, and so much of it is on autopilot. Even the boring, mundane stuff seems to move at lightning speed. We look up and wonder where the time went.

So, how do we slow it all down?

How do we break free from the rut of rinse-and-repeat? How do we reclaim a sense of balance, or at the very least, a little more joy in the journey?

Here are a few thoughts that might help:

1. Choose Joy—Deliberately

That doesn’t mean quitting your business to become a llama herder in Peru (though if that’s your dream, go for it). It means becoming more mindful about how you spend your time and energy. Are you doing things that bring fulfillment and joy? Or are you stuck in “should” mode?

Not every task is going to be thrilling, but if it makes you feel drained or resentful every time it pops up, ask yourself:

Can I delegate this?
Can I do it differently?
Or can I let it go altogether?

As business owners, we sometimes forget that we can say no—or at least say “not me.”

2. Create More Milestones

We often save celebration for a handful of annual events: birthdays, anniversaries, holidays. That’s not nearly enough. Joy and anticipation shouldn’t be limited to Hallmark moments.

Start planning things—small and large—that give you something to look forward to. And no, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

A quarterly weekend getaway
A monthly dinner with friends
A solo afternoon doing something you love
A new project that inspires you rather than drains you

Even something as simple as hosting a potluck picnic at the park can be an event worth anticipating, especially if it brings together people you enjoy.

The more milestones you build into your life, the more opportunities you create for anticipation—and that is what makes time feel full, rich, and slow (in the best way).

3. Practice Conscious Living

We rush through life not because we want to, but because we aren’t fully present. Multitasking has become a badge of honor, but in reality, it fragments our focus and diminishes our experiences.

Start noticing your moments. Be present in them, even if it’s just for a few minutes a day.

Savor your morning coffee (instead of sipping while doom-scrolling)
Watch the sunset (without checking your email between colors)
Take a walk without your phone (yes, it’s still possible!)

When you become more aware of the minutes, they stop slipping away unnoticed.

We started this article with one Latin phrase—Tempus Fugit—and we’ll end with another: Carpe Diem.

Seize the Day.

But let’s not just seize it. Let’s design it, build it, and live it—on purpose. You didn’t start your business to become a prisoner of it. You started it for freedom, flexibility, passion, and impact. So if you’re feeling like time is flying by without any joy, maybe it’s time to hit pause and reevaluate how you’re spending your most valuable asset: your time.

So here’s your invitation:

Let’s talk.

If you’re tired of feeling like time is slipping through your fingers—if you want to get back to enjoying your business and your life—Concierge Business Solutions® can help.

We specialize in helping entrepreneurs like you build businesses that run more smoothly, more efficiently, and with you at the helm—not chained to the oars.

And if you’re ready to take it a step further, check out our Freedom by Design training series—an on-demand course packed with practical tools, systems, and real-world strategies that teach you how to create a business that runs itself… so you don’t have to.

Explore the course here.

Or, if you’d prefer to talk one-on-one first:

Schedule a free consultation with us here.

Because time flies—and you deserve to spend yours doing what you love.

Why Staying Current Isn’t Optional—It’s Essential

June 3, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

In today’s fast-paced world, there’s one universal truth that applies to every business, especially in service-based industries: if you’re not evolving, you’re falling behind.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, we’ve seen time and again that small business owners—especially in the Lifestyle Management industry—can easily get so wrapped up in day-to-day operations that they forget to look up and evaluate: Does my business still reflect who I am and what I offer today?

The truth is, your business isn’t static. It changes, grows, pivots, and matures. And if your website, messaging, or service offerings don’t keep up, you may find yourself misaligned with the very clients you’re trying to attract.

Let’s talk about what that means—and how you can stay not just relevant, but resonant.

Step One: Language Matters – Update Your Vocabulary

Buzzwords change. Industries evolve. And the way we describe what we do must change, too.

In the early days of Lifestyle Management, we talked a lot about personal assistance, concierge services, and home checks. While those terms are still relevant, they don’t always reflect the level of sophistication or breadth of service today’s clients expect.

Enter the modern era of Fractional Estate Management.

This term better reflects the complexity and professionalism of the work Lifestyle Management companies are doing today. Instead of “just checking homes,” businesses now:

Oversee ongoing vendor relationships
Manage remodels and maintenance
Handle billing, logistics, and property scheduling
Coordinate full property readiness for seasonal arrival/departure

In essence, they act as part-time property managers or personal household executives,often filling a vital role in a client’s life.

Using elevated language like Fractional Estate Management not only more accurately describes your services—it positions your company as a professional, high-end resource. And it helps differentiate you from the neighborhood handyman or the person who “just stops by to look around.”

If your website and materials are still talking about concierge errands and dog walking (even if you still do those things), it’s time for a messaging refresh.

Step Two: Refresh Your Website – It’s Your Virtual Storefront

Your website is the first impression many clients get. And just like you wouldn’t walk into a high-end retail shop with dusty shelves and outdated signage, your online presence needs to look modern, function cleanly, and clearly communicate your current offerings.

Ask yourself:

Does your website reflect your current services?
Is it mobile friendly?
Is the language clean, confident, and professional?
Are you using updated terms like “lifestyle management,” “fractional estate support,” or “residential operations”?

More importantly: Does your website still reflect you?

You’ve grown. You’ve gained expertise. You’ve likely moved away from some starter services and into more strategic offerings. If your site still reads like it did five or ten years ago, potential clients might see you as out of touch—even if you’re doing amazing work behind the scenes.

Step Three: Align Your Marketing with Who You Serve Today

As your business evolves, so does your client base. If you started your company helping busy professionals but now spend most of your time managing estates for seasonal homeowners, your messaging and materials need to reflect that shift.

Marketing isn’t just about getting new clients. It’s about attracting the right clients. And that only happens when your brand accurately reflects your current business model.

Update your service list and remove offerings you no longer want to provide
Use imagery and branding that speaks to your ideal demographic (not just the people who hired you ten years ago)
Consider developing niche marketing collateral for different types of clients: estate owners, realtors, HOAs, builders, etc.

Step Four: Embrace Industry Evolution

Let’s be honest: Lifestyle Management isn’t what it was 20 years ago—and that’s a good thing. Clients today are savvier. They want more than errands. They want expertise, discretion, and someone who can anticipate and solve problems they don’t even know they have yet.

This shift is exactly why at Concierge Business Solutions®, we’ve evolved our training materials, updated our Essential Elements™ software platform, and created content that reflects the modern, operationally independent business owner.

We’re no longer training people to be personal assistants—we’re helping them become business owners, managers, and strategic advisors.

Fractional Estate Management is the future of Lifestyle Management. If your business is moving in that direction (or should be), now is the time to refine your services, update your offerings, and upgrade your image.

Final Thoughts: Keep It Real, Keep It Current

You don’t have to overhaul your entire business overnight. But you do need to take regular stock of how your brand reflects your business. Because a company that grows without updating its outward identity eventually becomes confusing—or invisible—to potential clients.

Ask yourself:

When was the last time I rewrote my About page?
Do my printed materials match my actual services?
Am I attracting the kind of clients I want—or just taking whoever calls?

If your answer to any of these questions gives you pause, then it’s time for a brand refresh.

And if you don’t know where to start? That’s what we’re here for.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, we help Lifestyle Management professionals and small business owners keep their businesses aligned, modern, and profitable.

Explore our full suite of services, including:

Business coaching and consulting
Done-for-you documentation and form packages
Software training and customization with Essential Elements™
Our signature course: Freedom by Design – How to Build a Business That Runs Itself

Visit: learn.conciergebusinesssolutions.com

And don’t forget to check out our podcast: Twisted, Bent and Exhausted – The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Sanity and Success, available on Spotify and YouTube.

Your business has evolved. Let’s make sure your brand has, too.

To schedule an initial consultation or to discuss any of our products/services, please click here

To your success,

Leslie Spoor

Concierge Business Solutions®

When Goodbye Means Growth: The Unexpected Upside of Letting Go

May 20, 2025/in Blog/by Leslie Spoor

Let’s be honest: losing a client can sting.

It doesn’t matter whether the decision is mutual, theirs, or yours—when a client walks away,

it can feel like a punch to the gut. Especially if they’ve been with you a long time, especially if you did your best work, and especially if your team went above and beyond to deliver exceptional service.

That’s exactly what happened to us recently at Executive Errands®.

We’ve provided rental support services for years, handling the late-night calls, weekend issues, guest complaints, and the endless, never-quite-right scheduling of cleaners and vendors. At one point, it was a major part of our business. But about two years ago, we made a strategic decision:we stopped offering rental support services to new clients.

Why? Because the numbers didn’t pencil out.

It turns out that 24-hour coverage (especially over weekends) is expensive, exhausting, and a massive distraction from the parts of our business that are actually profitable, sustainable, and aligned with our values. Rental support took up a disproportionate amount of time and attention compared to the revenue it brought in. So, we cut it loose. Well—mostly.

We kept just two long-standing rental clients who also used a wide range of our other Lifestyle Management services. They were wonderful clients, and we stayed with them because they were part of the fabric of our company. But then something happened.

The First Break

One of the two rental clients became increasingly unresponsive. Requests would go unanswered, confirmations weren’t coming in, and the collaboration we relied on to serve her guests simply wasn’t there anymore.

We wrestled with the decision, but in the end, we knew what we had to do: we fired her.

It was professional and polite, but clear. We were no longer a fit.

It was hard—but not as hard as we thought it would be. In fact, it felt like a weight had lifted. That was the first sign that we were heading in the right direction.

The Final Goodbye

A week ago, the last remaining rental client—our longest-standing one—let us know she was making a change. She had decided to move to a new management arrangement, and just like that, we were out of the rental business for good.

Honestly, it hit hard. She had been with us for many years. We had history. She trusted us with her home, her guests, her reputation. Losing that kind of relationship leaves a mark.

But once the shock wore off, we had a realization:

We were never really built for rental support.

This wasn’t a loss. It was a release. It was the universe giving us a final nudge to fully align with who we are and how we serve.

The End of an Era… and the Start of a Better One

The departure of our last rental client marked the official end of an era at Executive Errands®—and the beginning of a much clearer, more focused business model.

No more weekend panic calls. No more scrambling to clean a house between back-to-back bookings. No more absorbing the stress of guest reviews or unrealistic expectations.

We’re not Airbnb managers. We’re not hotel front desk staff. And we certainly aren’t a 24-hour concierge service for vacationers.

We are a Lifestyle Management company—and that means we support homeowners, not short-term renters. Our clients are people who want quality, consistency, and peace of mind. They want their homes cared for, their projects managed, and their lives simplified.

Letting go of the last vestige of rental support allows us to do exactly that, with no distractions and no compromises.

So, Why Is This a Good Thing?

When you’re in the thick of it, losing a client can feel like a red flag—like something went wrong.

But here’s what we’ve learned:

1. It Creates Space

When a misaligned client leaves, you gain back time, energy, and resources you can pour into the clients and services that do align with your vision. The right clients will always come when you have space to serve them.

2. It Forces Clarity

Every goodbye is a moment to ask: What kind of business am I really building? This final rental departure helped us see, once and for all, that our true purpose lies elsewhere.

3. It Boosts Morale

When your team no longer has to bend over backwards for services that drain them, morale improves. We’ve already seen renewed energy and enthusiasm from our staff now that they’re focusing on what they do best.

4. It Reinforces Boundaries

Saying goodbye—especially when it’s your decision—is a powerful act of self-respect in business. It says: We know who we are, and we’re not going to stretch ourselves to be something we’re not.

Take This Lesson for Your Own Business

If you’re holding onto a client, service, or offering that no longer fits, ask yourself:

Is this draining more resources than it’s worth?
Am I only keeping this out of habit or fear?
Does this align with the business I’m trying to build?

If the answers are yes, yes and no, maybe it’s time to say goodbye too.

You don’t have to serve everyone. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. And sometimes, letting go of a client is the best thing you can do—for you, your team, and your future.

At Concierge Business Solutions®, We Help You Build a Business That Fits YOU

Want help designing a business that aligns with your strengths, values, and goals? That’s exactly what we do.

Check out our educational program, Freedom by Design: How to Build a Business That Runs Itself, available now at: Learn Concierge Business Solutions

Or tune in to our podcast, Twisted, Bent and Exhausted – The Entrepreneur’s Guide to Sanity and Success, where we talk honestly (and often hilariously) about the real-life wins and losses of running a small business. Listen on Spotify or YouTube – just search for Twisted, Bent and Exhausted.

Final Word

Losing a client doesn’t always mean failure. Sometimes, it’s the universe whispering, “It’s time to grow.”

Here’s to letting go—and growing forward.