Why Most Entrepreneurs Stay Stuck in the Planning Phase (and How to Break Free)
We’ve all been there. We start out with big ideas, color-coded plans, sticky notes covering our walls… But before we know it, we’re caught up in an endless loop of planning and thinking about the work instead of doing it.
If you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the planning phase, waiting for the perfect moment to start, you’re not alone. Planning feels safe. There’s no risk in creating a pretty to-do list or sketching out your big launch ideas. And it feels productive. But planning alone doesn’t move the needle.
What does? Action. Consistent, revenue-generating action.
The problem is that most entrepreneurs get caught up in doing the "busy work" that doesn’t actually lead to results — like endlessly tweaking their website, researching the right tools, or posting on social media without a clear plan or call to action.
If you want to grow your business, you need to start prioritizing tasks that actually make you money. Focused action is what will take you from where you are now to where you want to be.
So, how do you break free from the planning trap?
By taking small, manageable steps that drive revenue.
Focus on What Matters: Revenue-Generating Tasks
Instead of spending another day fine-tuning your logo or perfecting your Instagram grid, focus on tasks that get you closer to your sales goals. Here are revenue-generating actions you can take today that will have a real impact on your business.
10 Revenue-Generating Tasks to Move Your Business Forward
1. Send a Promotional Email to Your List
Your email list is full of warm leads — people who already know, like, and trust you. Instead of waiting for the right time when you have the perfect tip to share, send an email with a simple offer, whether it’s a product, service, or a limited-time promotion. Remind them why they need what you’re offering and include a clear call to action (CTA).
2. Create a Limited-Time Offer
Nothing prompts action like a deadline. Put together a limited-time offer, whether it’s a discount, a bonus, or a special package. Make it clear that it’s only available for a short time to create urgency and drive sales.
3. Follow Up with Potential Clients
If you’ve had a conversation with someone who showed interest in your product or service but didn’t buy, now’s the time to follow up. A simple and friendly, “Checking in to see if you had any questions or need more information” can make all the difference.
4. Run a Flash Sale
A flash sale doesn’t have to be complicated. Pick one of your products or services and offer it at a discounted price for 24-48 hours. Promote it to your email list and on social media, creating a sense of urgency to buy now.
5. Offer a Done-For-You Service or VIP Day
If you usually sell DIY products or templates, consider offering a done-for-you service or a VIP day where clients can work with you directly for a higher price point. This can be a great way to quickly increase revenue while offering extra value.
6. Host a Free Webinar with a Sales Pitch
Webinars are still one of the best sales tools out there. Plan a short, value-packed webinar that solves a specific problem for your audience, then pitch your product or service at the end. Make sure your CTA is clear, and include a limited-time offer for attendees.
7. Pitch Your Product or Service on Social Media
Sometimes we get so caught up in creating content that we forget to sell. Create a simple Instagram or social media post that clearly explains what you’re offering, who it’s for, and how they can buy. Don’t forget to include a strong CTA and a link to your sales page.
Better yet, you can run a full-on campaign on Instagram or Facebook. Here’s my favorite system for selling on Instagram (affiliate link).
8. Partner with Another Entrepreneur for a Joint Promotion
Collaborating with another business owner in your niche can help you reach a new audience and increase sales. Consider hosting a joint giveaway, co-hosting a webinar, or offering a bundled promotion that benefits both of your audiences. I love Thrivecart Pro’s JV Partner feature (affiliate link) which automatically pays out your promo partner after every JV sale.
9. Update Your Sales Page for Better Conversions
Take a look at your current sales page and ask yourself: Is it clear what I’m offering? Is there a strong CTA? If not, make some simple tweaks. Add testimonials, make the offer more compelling, and ensure your CTA stands out.
10. Create an Affiliate or Referral Program
Word of mouth is powerful. Set up an affiliate program that rewards your existing customers for bringing in new business. Whether it’s a commission, a discount, or free access to a product, giving your customers an incentive to refer others can lead to a steady stream of sales. I use Thrivecart for my affiliate program and love it. (affiliate link).
Start Small, But Start Now
The key to breaking free from the planning phase is to start small and focus on consistent, revenue-generating actions. Whether it’s sending one email, making one follow-up call, or tweaking one sales page, the important thing is to start.
So, what will your first step be? Instead of spending another day planning, pick one of the tasks above and take action.
Remember: action creates momentum, and momentum leads to results.
