20 Things I’ve Learned in 20 Years of Online Business
This year marks 20 years since I began my online business journey, and what a journey it has been! It’s been filled with both challenges and blessings, but through it all, God has taught me so much. As I reflect on the last two decades, I want to share 20 lessons I’ve learned along the way.
To celebrate this milestone, I’m giving away our Kingdom Writers book for free from December 17–19, 2024. You can download your copy here.
Now, here are the lessons—some practical, some spiritual, but all from the heart.
1. Obedience Doesn’t Come with a Shortcut
When God calls you to something, it doesn’t mean the road will be smooth or easy. In fact, it’s often the opposite. But His faithfulness never fails, and the journey is always worth it when you trust Him step by step.
2. Turn Your Fear Into Fuel
I used to be deathly afraid of finances and numbers, but I’ve learned to embrace them. Books like Profit First and tools like a weekly cash flow spreadsheet have turned my fear into confidence and clarity.
3. Closed Doors are Often Divine Detours.
Sometimes, what looks like a closed door is really God saying, “Not yet.” I tried to sell Christian Book Academy twice, and both times, I got no offers. Instead, God gave me renewed passion for it, and now I wouldn’t dream of selling it!
4. This Mission Is Not for the Faint of Heart
Owning a business is definitely one of the biggest challenges I’ve ever faced. It takes more time, energy, and patience than I ever imagined—but the rewards of obedience and perseverance far outweigh the cost.
5. Start Scared, but Start Anyway
You don’t have to feel ready to start. Some of my greatest breakthroughs came when I stepped out in fear but trusted God to guide me.
6. Small Wins, Big Momentum
Celebrate small wins—they build momentum. Whether it’s writing one chapter or making one sale, every step forward matters.
7. Pay Attention to Your Growth Curve
Investing in yourself and your growth is not optional—it’s necessary. Courses, coaches, and communities have been some of the best investments I’ve ever made.
8. Your Ministry Matters More Than You Know
Your calling isn’t just about you. It’s about the lives you’re called to impact. Never underestimate the ripple effect of obedience.
9. God’s Clock Runs Differently Than Yours
Be patient with God’s timing. I’ve learned (the hard way!) that His plans often unfold slower than I’d like but always in ways better than I could imagine.
10. Tame the Chaos With Simple Systems
Systems save time and sanity. Whether it’s a content calendar, a to-do list app, or automated workflows, systems are your best friend and I often say systems are my secret sauce.
11. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Prayer
Every launch, every decision, every plan starts best when it starts with Him and business meetings with God. Praying and journaling and asking Him for the next steps.
12. Stay in Your Lane and Shine Bright
Comparison is a creativity killer. God has given you a unique voice and message—stay faithful to your calling, not someone else’s.
13. Let Go to Level Up
Delegation is a game changer. Bringing others into your business—whether a team member or a tool—frees you to focus on what only you can do.
14. Your Testimony Is Your Superpower
Never be afraid to share your story. It’s the one thing no one else has, and it can be the key to unlocking someone else’s breakthrough.
15. God’s Math Always Works Out
God provides in unexpected ways. He has shown up in our finances time and again when we chose to step out in faith.
16. Rest to Run Again
Rest isn’t just a nice idea—it’s a necessity. Building regular rhythms of rest into your life is key to staying healthy and productive in the long run.
17. Faith Grows in the Fog
The seasons where things felt the most unclear were often where my faith grew the deepest. Trust Him, even when you can’t see the next step.
18. Anchor in Your ‘Why’ When the Waves Hit
When challenges come, your “why” will keep you going. For me, it’s always been about helping Kingdom writers fulfill their God-given calling.
19. God is Faithful. Always.
Every challenge, pivot, and opportunity has been marked by His faithfulness. He’s never failed to lead me when I sought His guidance.
20. The Journey Is the Reward
It’s easy to focus on the destination, but the real treasure is in the journey. The lessons learned, the people impacted, the faith grown—that’s what makes it all worthwhile.
I hope these lessons encourage and inspire you in your own journey. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been at this for years, know that God is with you every step of the way.
Get Your FREE Copy of our book, Kingdom Writers
To celebrate 20 years in business, we’re giving away our Kingdom Writers book from December 17–19, 2024. It’s our gift to you.
Make sure to download your copy here.
Now I’d love to hear from you! Which of these lessons resonates with you the most? Or do you have a lesson from your own journey to share? Let me know in the comments below!
Here’s to the next 20 years of God’s faithfulness!
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