Roadblocks & Detours: The 3 Big Ones You Will Face — And How to Walk Through Them

Before we dive in, remember this: these are not signs that you’re “failing” or “not cut out for this.” They are the normal, predictable speed bumps that every service-based business owner encounters, especially in the first year. The goal is not to avoid them, but to learn to move through them with your nervous system intact.

1. Inconsistent Bookings

The Experience:

Some weeks your calendar feels full, others it’s crickets. This unpredictability can send your stress response into overdrive, especially if you’re tying your sense of safety to your booking sheet.

Why It’s Normal:

Your business is building trust and visibility. Client habits, seasons, and life events also impact patterns — and that’s outside your control.

Nervous System Strategies:

• Anchor your week: Keep a baseline schedule for admin, marketing, and rest so you’re not “waiting” for clients — you’re creating structure whether or not you’re booked.

• Build a cushion: Even a small savings buffer or part-time income source can reduce the fight-or-flight response when bookings dip.

• Separate identity from income: Remind yourself daily — slow weeks are not a reflection of your worth or skill.

2. Low Pricing

The Experience:

You feel stuck charging less than you want because you’re afraid higher prices will scare people off.

Why It’s Normal:

Pricing is one of the most emotionally charged decisions in business. Early on, we often undervalue our work because our nervous system is wired to seek safety through acceptance — and “being affordable” can feel like acceptance.

Nervous System Strategies:

• Raise in increments: Instead of doubling your rates overnight, try small, steady increases that your system can adjust to.

• Anchor your prices in reality: Calculate your actual expenses and desired income so your brain can see the logic — not just the fear.

• Practice tolerance: Notice the sensations (tight chest, racing thoughts) when you state your price. Breathe through them until your body learns that charging your worth is safe.

3. Self-Doubt

The Experience:

“Who am I to be doing this?” “What if I’m not good enough?” This mental loop often gets louder when you’re stepping into new territory.

Why It’s Normal:

Your nervous system is designed to flag uncertainty as a potential threat. Entrepreneurship is one giant pile of uncertainty — so of course doubt shows up.

Nervous System Strategies:

• Name it: Literally say out loud, “This is doubt. This is my brain trying to protect me.”

• Borrow confidence: Spend time around people who believe in you — mentors, peers, past clients. Your nervous system co-regulates with theirs.

• Act small: Instead of waiting until you “feel” confident, take tiny steps while doubt is still there. Your body learns safety through doing.

Key Takeaway:

These roadblocks don’t mean you’re off course — they’re part of the map.

The more you learn to meet them with curiosity and nervous system care, the faster you’ll move through them without burning out or bailing.