The Power of Patience:

Why Growth Takes Time in Business and in Life

Have you ever felt like your business should be further along by now? Like you’re working hard but the results just aren’t showing up fast enough? You’re not alone. Every new entrepreneur hits this moment of doubt. The truth is, growth doesn’t happen on demand—it requires patience, persistence, and the right mindset.

A seed doesn’t sprout overnight. It spends time hidden in the soil, developing roots long before it breaks through the surface. Your business, and even your personal growth, works the same way.

That’s the dual nature of growth: it isn’t just about strategy, sales, or scaling—it’s about who you are becoming along the way. The patience you practice in your personal life builds resilience for the inevitable setbacks in business. The mindset you bring to relationships, health, and learning shapes how you lead, market, and create. Growth in business and growth in life are not separate journeys—they’re threads of the same fabric, and the stronger one is, the stronger the other becomes.

Roots Before Results: Why Foundations Matter in Business Growth

Just like a seed focuses on roots before leaves, businesses need unseen groundwork first. The planning, the learning, the systems—none of it may be visible from the outside, but it’s what holds everything together later. Quiet seasons are not wasted seasons; they’re the preparation for what’s to come.

I’m reminded of when I first planted butterfly pea vines in my garden. For weeks, I saw nothing but bare soil. I watered, I waited, and I wondered if anything was even happening. But underground, roots were spreading, and when the first shoots finally broke through, they grew fast and strong. That patience in the early days made all the difference.

The same is true in business. The invisible work—creating processes, understanding your target market, building your personal brand—often determines the strength of the results people eventually see. When new entrepreneurs skip this stage, they risk building on shaky ground. Patience ensures your roots can hold the weight of future success.

Personal Growth Fuels Business Growth

Your business will only grow as much as you do. This is where a growth mindset in personal life connects directly to entrepreneurship. Resilience, adaptability, and patience aren’t just buzzwords—they show up in how you make decisions, handle stress, and lead others.

When you invest in your personal development—learning new skills, taking care of your health, or nurturing relationships—you’re also investing in the long-term health of your business. Entrepreneurs who neglect their own growth often find themselves overwhelmed, reactive, and stuck. But those who see personal growth as part of their business strategy create stronger, more sustainable companies.

Think of it this way: every time you read a book, join a course, or step outside your comfort zone, you’re feeding both your personal growth and your business resilience. The two cannot be separated.

Embrace the Pace: Slow Progress Is Still Progress

One of the biggest frustrations for entrepreneurs is the pace of growth. We live in a world that celebrates overnight success stories, but the reality is that most of those “overnight” wins were years in the making.

Growth is rarely a straight line. There will be bursts of momentum and periods of stillness. Slow progress does not mean failure—it often means sustainability. It’s in the steady pace where strong habits are built and burnout is avoided.

I often remind myself that slow doesn’t mean stuck. In the garden, overwatering or forcing growth can damage a plant. In business, rushing can lead to sloppy decisions, burnout, or missed opportunities. By embracing the natural pace of growth, you allow your business—and yourself—to thrive.

Lessons from Setbacks: Patience as a Tool for Resilience

Storms test a garden, and challenges test an entrepreneur. Every setback is a chance to build resilience and learn what doesn’t work. Patience gives you the ability to view challenges not as dead ends but as opportunities to replant, redirect, and grow stronger.

I’ll never forget the season a storm scattered my carefully planted seeds and toppled young seedlings. At first, it felt like all my effort was wasted. But replanting taught me two things: how to prepare better for the future, and that even setbacks can produce unexpected strength.

The same applies in business. A failed product launch, a lost client, or a dip in sales can feel devastating in the moment. But each of these experiences adds knowledge, perspective, and grit. What feels like a loss today often becomes tomorrow’s wisdom.

Celebrate Small Sprouts: Why Every Win Matters

Just as gardeners celebrate the first green shoot breaking through the soil, entrepreneurs should celebrate small wins. Landing a first client, finishing a tough project, or improving a process may seem minor, but these are signs of progress.

Celebrating milestones matters because it reminds you that patience pays off. It shifts your focus from what hasn’t happened yet to the progress you’ve already made. These moments keep motivation alive and build the momentum needed for bigger breakthroughs.

Think of small wins as your business’s way of saying: keep going—the roots are working.

Closing Thought: Growth Is Happening, Even If You Can’t See It

Growth in business and in life is never about instant results—it’s about steady, intentional progress. Just as a seed needs time underground before it blooms, your journey requires patience, trust, and a commitment to growing both yourself and your business.

So when you feel discouraged, remember: every root you’re putting down now is preparing you for the season when your efforts finally break through the surface. Keep watering your vision, keep nurturing your mindset, and trust that growth is happening—even if you can’t see it yet.

Call-to-Action

I’d love to hear your story—how has patience shaped your journey, either in business or in life? Share your experiences in the comments; your perspective may encourage someone else who’s just starting out.

And if you want to dive deeper into the lessons I’ve learned from the garden and how they connect to building a business, check out my book, From Soil to Strategy, now available on Amazon.

The Power of a Name: How I Learned to Set Boundaries with Grace

I used to think correcting someone about my name was too small to matter.

Then it kept happening.

Even when my email signature clearly said FirstName LastName, people would respond to me using only my last name. At first, I brushed it off. But each time it happened, a quiet tension settled in—like part of me had gone unseen.

Growing up, I noticed something: people didn’t always use others’ real names, especially in my community. Sometimes it seemed harmless, but often it felt like a way to shrink someone—like their identity wasn’t worth the effort. I decided early on that I wanted my name to be respected. I never had a nickname, not because I didn’t like them, but because I wanted to be fully seen.

I realized what bothered me wasn’t just the word—it was the message underneath it: you’re not paying attention to who I am.

Coming from Brooklyn, I’ve always been comfortable being direct. It’s in my DNA to be clear and straightforward. But that clarity—especially as a woman—has sometimes been labeled as “harsh.” So when I decided to speak up, I found myself caught between two fears: sounding too sharp… or staying silent and feeling invisible.

That moment became a turning point.

Why Names Matter More Than We Think

Our names are more than labels—they’re living pieces of our identity. When someone uses them correctly, it says I see you. I respect you. I care enough to get it right.

When they don’t, especially after being corrected, it chips away at belonging. It can make even the most confident among us feel small, like we have to shrink to be received.

And that’s when I knew: correcting someone about my name wasn’t nitpicking. It was protecting something sacred.

From Friction to Empowerment

I created what I now call the Name-Correction Empowerment Toolkit—a resource to help me (and now others) set boundaries around our names with both clarity and grace.

It includes:

• ✍🏽 Polished response templates for professional settings

• 💬 Warm one-liners for quick chats and emails

• 🚨 Escalation scripts for repeated issues

• 🌿 Internal grounding phrases, affirmations, and reflection prompts

Because here’s what I learned: clarity isn’t conflict—it’s care.

Correcting someone about your name doesn’t mean you’re being harsh. It means you respect yourself enough to ask others to do the same.

What This Journey Taught Me

Creating this toolkit taught me something profound: every time I stand up for my name, I’m reminding myself that I deserve to be seen fully.

And every time someone adjusts and starts using it correctly? It feels like they’re saying, “I see you now.”

That small shift carries a quiet kind of power.

For You

If you’ve ever had to correct someone about your name—and felt nervous, guilty, or unsure—you’re not alone.

And if you’ve ever stayed silent and felt invisible, you’re not alone either.

You deserve to be addressed as you.

So here’s my reminder to you (and to myself):

Your name is part of your power. You have every right to protect it.

If you’d like to explore the Name-Correction Empowerment Toolkit I created, I’d be happy to share it with you. Let’s normalize respect, one name at a time.

A Final Thought

This experience reminded me that empowerment isn’t always about bold leaps—it’s often about the quiet, consistent ways we honor ourselves. Speaking up for my name was one of those ways. It taught me that clarity can be compassionate, boundaries can be graceful, and even small acts of self-respect can ripple outward to inspire others.

That’s the heart of my journey: creating space where people feel seen, valued, and encouraged to stand in their full power—starting with something as simple and as sacred as a name.

Author’s Note

Sheridan Gary is a writer, strategist, and advocate for authentic connection. She created the Name-Correction Empowerment Toolkit to help others set boundaries with clarity, compassion, and confidence.

Explore the toolkit [here]

Rooted Leadership: How Gardening Builds Sustainable Organizations

The Hidden Roots of Strong Leadership

In gardening, the roots are hidden beneath the surface, quietly anchoring plants and drawing in the nourishment that sustains visible growth. Leadership works the same way. The strongest organizations don’t thrive because of what’s immediately visible—the flashy projects, rapid expansion, or quarterly wins. They thrive because of what’s happening beneath the surface: the systems, relationships, and culture that keep everything grounded.

This is what I call Rooted Leadership: a way of leading that prioritizes sustainability, resilience, and care. Just as a healthy garden requires soil preparation, patience, pruning, and celebration of the harvest, sustainable organizations are built through leaders who cultivate conditions for long-term growth.

Soil Matters: Creating the Right Environment for Teams

Every plant needs soil rich with nutrients to grow strong. The same is true for teams. Leaders create “soil” when they shape the conditions that allow people to thrive: psychological safety, resources, and clarity of purpose.

Without healthy soil, even the most promising seeds struggle. Similarly, without the right environment, talent and ideas remain stunted. Rooted Leadership asks: Am I creating conditions where people can take root and grow?

Planting and Patience: Nurturing Growth Over Time

Gardeners know that seeds don’t sprout overnight. It takes time, care, and consistency to see results. Leadership is no different. Too often, organizations chase quick wins instead of investing in steady, sustainable progress.

Rooted leaders nurture potential with patience. They understand that growth takes time and that consistent care—coaching, feedback, recognition—is what transforms small beginnings into lasting impact.

Pruning with Purpose: Removing Obstacles to Flourish

A thriving garden requires pruning—removing what no longer serves growth. In organizations, this means letting go of outdated processes, unhealthy behaviors, or even projects that drain energy without adding value.

Pruning isn’t about cutting for the sake of cutting; it’s about making space for what truly matters. Rooted Leadership requires the courage to remove obstacles so that people and ideas can flourish.

Harvest Season: Celebrating Milestones and Sustaining Momentum

Every gardener knows the joy of harvest season—the reward for months of unseen labor. Leaders, too, must recognize and celebrate milestones. Harvest moments are opportunities to pause, reflect, and honor collective effort.

But harvest isn’t the end; it’s part of the cycle. Rooted leaders use celebrations to sustain momentum, prepare for the next season, and ensure the organization continues to grow stronger year after year.

Leading Like a Gardener

Gardening reminds us that sustainable growth doesn’t come from force—it comes from nurture. Leaders who embrace Rooted Leadership cultivate organizations that are resilient, adaptable, and deeply connected.

Whether you’re guiding a startup, leading a team, or steering a large organization, the question remains the same: What are you planting, and how are you tending it?

✨ This piece is part of my ongoing exploration of leadership and growth through the lens of gardening. To dive deeper, follow my blog or read my latest book, From Soil to Strategy.

What Do I Need to START a Business?

What Do I Need to START a Business?

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but trust me, you’ve got this! The key is breaking it down into manageable steps and tackling each one thoughtfully. In most states—if not all—you’ll need to start with some basic homework. Don’t worry; most of this early work won’t cost you a thing.

Step 1: Choose Your Business Structure

First things first: what kind of business do you want to create? The legal structure you choose will affect everything from how much you pay in taxes to how much personal liability you have. Here are some common options:

• Sole Proprietorship: The simplest and quickest to set up, but you take on full personal liability for the business.

• Limited Liability Company (LLC): Offers more protection for your personal assets while keeping things relatively simple.

• Corporation: Best for larger businesses with complex needs, but it comes with more paperwork and regulations.

Take some time to research which structure is best for your business goals and consult a professional if needed.

Step 2: Pick and Secure Your Business Name

Have you landed on the perfect name? Great! But before you get too attached, you’ll need to check if it’s available.

• Head to the IRS.gov website to search for your business name and ensure it’s not already taken.

• Many states also have their own database for business name availability—make sure to check there as well.

• Once you confirm your name is unique, lock it in! This is the name your customers will come to know and trust.

Step 3: Get Your EIN Number

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is essentially your business’s social security number. It’s required for things like opening a business bank account and filing taxes. The best part? It’s free and easy to get online through the IRS website.

Step 4: Secure Your Online Presence

In today’s world, your online identity is just as important as your legal setup. This includes your domain name and social media handles.

• Domain Name: Your domain is your business’s digital address—think www.mybusinessname.com. Even if you’re not ready to build a website, buy your domain now to prevent someone else from snatching it up. Platforms like GoDaddy or Namecheap make it simple.

• Social Media Handles: Consistency is key here. Your social media names should match or be as close as possible to your business name. This makes it easier for customers to find and recognize you. Start with these platforms:

  • Meta (Facebook)

  • X (formerly Twitter)

  • Instagram

  • TikTok

  • Twitch

  • Snapchat

  • BlueSky

It’s worth checking all these platforms even if you’re not planning to use them right away. Securing your handle now will save you headaches later.

Step 5: Time to Get Busy!

Once you’ve handled the basics, you’re officially in motion. This is where the real fun (and hard work) begins. Stay organized, keep learning, and remember—every big business started somewhere. You’re building the foundation for something amazing, one step at a time.

Pro Tips to Keep in Mind:

• Research Local Requirements: Some states or cities have specific permits or licenses you may need.

• Start a Business Bank Account: Keep your personal and business finances separate to make accounting easier.

• Plan for Taxes: Consult with a tax professional early on to understand your responsibilities.

Starting a business isn’t just about paperwork and social media—it’s about bringing your vision to life. Take it one step at a time, and you’ll be surprised at what you can achieve.

Have more questions on how to get started, let me know on the Contact Me page.

Finding Your Voice: A Beginner’s Guide to Showing Up Online

It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Cultivating Your Business Garden: Which Relationships to Water, Which to Weed

In every garden, there are plants that flourish with just a bit of care — and others that struggle, no matter how much water or sunlight you give. Relationships in business are no different. Some nurture your growth; others quietly deplete your energy. If you want your “business garden” to thrive, you have to learn when to water and when to weed.

Recognize the Types of Relationships

• Nutrient-Rich Relationships – Mentors, partners, and friends who challenge you and celebrate your wins.
  
  

• Neutral Relationships – Connections that aren’t harmful but don’t help your growth.
  
  

• Weeds – Toxic connections that drain your time, focus, and energy.
  
  

Audit Your Garden
Every season, gardeners step back and evaluate what’s thriving and what needs to go. Do the same with your relationships. Ask yourself:

• Does this relationship add value or deplete it?
  
  

• Does this person celebrate my growth or compete with it?
  
  

• Am I investing energy without reciprocity?
  
  Learn to Prune with Grace
  Letting go doesn’t always require a dramatic conversation. Sometimes it’s as simple as creating space, setting boundaries, or reducing engagement with those who don’t support your growth.
  Example script:

“I’m focusing on a few key priorities right now, so I won’t be able to commit to that.”

Nurture the Right Connections
Relationships thrive with intentionality. Make time to check in, share wins, and celebrate others. Invest in the people and partnerships that align with your values and vision.

Don’t worry about sounding professional. Sound like you. There are over 1.5 billion websites out there, but your story is what’s going to separate this one from the rest. If you read the words back and don’t hear your own voice in your head, that’s a good sign you still have more work to do.

Be clear, be confident and don’t overthink it. The beauty of your story is that it’s going to continue to evolve and your site can evolve with it. Your goal should be to make it feel right for right now. Later will take care of itself. It always does.

Collaboration Over Competition: Building a Supportive Network

There was a time when I thought I had to do it all alone. I wore “I don’t need help” like a badge of honor — until I realized that isolation was slowing my growth. The moment I opened myself to collaboration, everything changed.

The Myth of Going Solo
Many entrepreneurs believe success means grinding in silence, but doing it alone often leads to burnout and missed opportunities.

Competition says: There’s not enough to go around.
Collaboration says: There’s room for all of us to grow.

The Power of Community
Building a supportive network gives you:

• Access to perspectives you wouldn’t find alone
  
  

• Shared resources, ideas, and referrals
  
  

• A safety net during hard seasons
  
  

During my early days with Embrace, collaborations with other small businesses helped us co-host events and share marketing efforts that grew everyone’s reach.

Practical Ways to Build Your Network

• Show up: Attend events, join masterminds, or participate in virtual groups.
  
  

• Give before you expect: Share your knowledge, connections, and support freely.
  
  

• Be genuine: Focus on relationships, not transactions.
  
  

Shifting the Mindset
Start celebrating others’ wins. Someone else’s success doesn’t diminish yours — it often expands what’s possible for you, too.

Call to Action
This week, reach out to one person in your network. Celebrate their progress, offer support, or simply connect. One conversation can be the start of a collaboration that changes everything.