In this week’s pep talk, I am sharing a behind-the-scenes look at what we’re actually prioritizing right now—why a slower start isn’t a setback, and how refining your focus, energy, and systems can lead to more aligned, sustainable growth. This episode is an invitation to stop forcing momentum and start building a business that works with your life, not against it.

In today’s episode, I share:

01:48 – Why a slow, messy start to the year can be exactly what you need
03:36 – What a “becoming year” really looks like when you stop setting rigid goals
05:36 – Why energy and health became the first non-negotiable investment
07:07 – The power of choosing one fun, life-giving focus instead of a long resolution list
09:13 – Why podcasting remains the anchor platform and center of the business
10:45 – How SEO and evergreen content support growth without constant visibility
12:06 – Building a human-first sales system rooted in relationships and follow-up
13:26 – Why community and micro-partnerships are replacing hustle-driven marketing
15:09 – How AI is being used as support, not a replacement, for creativity and voice
17:47 – Why hiring specialists (not doing everything yourself) protects your time and energy
19:29 – Letting branding, creativity, and travel be part of a sustainable business rhythm
22:15 – Three grounding questions to help you choose your anchor, background systems, and what to stop forcing

🔗 LINKS MENTIONED:

👉 Take the FREE CEO Week Challenge → www.hollymariehaynes.com/ceoweek

🌎 Website → www.hollymariehaynes.com

📲 Instagram → @thehollymariehaynes

🗨️ Chat with Holly → https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/chat

🔗 FREE RESOURCES:

https://www.hollymariehaynes.com/workwithme

603 - What to Invest in for Sustainable Business Growth in 2026: 5 Things I’m Doing (and Why)