What’s a Tiny Business, anyway?

When you think of the Tiny House Movement, what comes to mind? It’s about size, of course, but there’s more to it than that. It’s about living with more intentionality, becoming comfortably able to say “no” to stuff, conscious with the choices you make. When I say “tiny” business, the most common reaction is oh “small” business, which is sort of right but not exactly. Small business is defined by the size of a business or the number of employees.  It’s a very generic descriptor. What distinguishes a "tiny" business from a small business is that it's not just about size. A "tiny" business is lean and laser focused and you build it to meet your personal, financial and social impact goals, it's business on your terms—that fits your life. 

I.It is driven by consciously chosen limitations that increase your focus on the things that matter. Tiny means how to say no. 

II.This focus helps you prioritize your “why”—the things that matter to you and that you want to create—in life, business, and the world. 

III.These priorities guide every decision in your “how”—the business realities and practices that get things done. 

IV.Focus, priorities, and clarity create a magic that let you enjoy the process. You remember to breathe, and you thrive through it all. Tiny means how to say yes. 

The Magic of Tiny Business encompasses all the lessons I learned and the time-tested Tiny Business insights and advice I want to share so that you can have a smoother journey. 

In part I, I go deeper into what a Tiny Business is and what it means to consciously choose your limitations—whether it’s leaving work at 5:00 p.m. every day without fail, having a positive environmental impact, or enjoying a flexible schedule. I help you take inventory of what you have to start with (trust me, it’s enough!), what you will need going forward, and the steps you can take to get it. 

Part II is about getting clear on your “why.” What do you want for your life, your business, and the world? Why do you want to start your own business? Why are you passionate about selling this particular product or service? Breaking down the answers to these questions will help you get clear on your brand and your story—the unique value you are adding to the marketplace. 

In part III, I get into the nitty-gritty of starting and growing a Tiny Business—from cash flow to accounting and anticipating growth and slowdowns—all the while keeping your “why” front and center. 

Part IV is about keeping you whole throughout the process. A Tiny Business is about making a good living and a great life. You need to be able to stop and smell the flowers, or get a glass of water, or take a walk when you feel like it—you need to enjoy the journey. This section shows you how.