How to grow your pet business even if you’re an introvert

I used to think that being an introvert would be a disadvantage in business.

As a super introvert myself, it’s actually required a lot of mindset work to overcome that block.

Extroverts always seem to be full of energy. Making friends with others seems effortless for them.

My partner for one is a social butterfly. He thrives off meeting up with friends and family. That connection fuels him.

But for me, I can quite easily go a few months without much ‘humaning’. Social interactions drain me. Alone time is what I need to refuel my fire.

But our introversion certainly doesn’t put us on the back foot in business. In fact, introverts can make incredible leaders.

What we do need though, is to ensure we have the right plan in place to support us on our way.

What it means to be an introvert

We can sometimes mistaken introverts as being shy, timid, and awkward in social situations. While extroverts are loud, bold, social creatures.

Ok, that can sometimes be the case. I for one am slightly awkward when I meet people for the first time. I have little patience or desire to engage in small talk.

However, when I’m with close friends and family, I’m chatty, playful and outspoken. I’m not afraid to say it how it is.

I make time for others when I want to, but when I do, I know I need space to recharge my batteries for a day or so after.

There are varying degrees and shades to introversion and extroversion.

So a better way to think about it is where your energy comes from.

Do social situations give you energy? Yes? Then you’re more of an extrovert.

Does alone time give you energy? Yes? Then you’re more of an introvert.

Why introversion is a big benefit in business

Introverts tend to be deep thinkers.

They have no problem getting lost in their own thoughts. They contemplate ideas, problems and solutions thoroughly.

They’re more reflective and have the ability to see the bigger picture. They consider all possible outcomes and scenarios at once, which allows them to follow the best plan of action.

Coming up with creative and innovative ideas on their own is often easier for them.

They also have great attention to detail which means they’re wired to deliver only their very best work.

They often have big imaginations and dreams. And have the drive to take action without the need for encouragement from others.

4 tips for business growth as an introvert

Get help at home

Introverts often feel like they have to do EVERYTHING themselves.

On top of the many responsibilities of running a business, you may also have duties to fulfil at home too.

And if you’re not careful, the responsibility of both can overwhelm you.

But we don’t have to do it all!

Getting help around the home can give you more time to work on your business, or give you more space to recharge.

After a long week at work, I used to spend my entire Saturday morning cleaning the house.

Then I’d go shopping for the week.

Then I’d put a clothes wash on.

Then I’d do this, then I’d do that.

Before I knew it, my entire weekend was filled up with household chores. Then back to work on Monday.

It’s why now, I have a cleaner that comes every two weeks to clean my home so I don’t have to.

It’s why I get a food delivery every week.

Just a small change to upgrade your home life can make a big difference to your energy and overall joy.

And it doesn’t have to be expensive either.

Create your business support structure

I talk about this a lot, but this has been essential to my growth as an introverted business owner.

I cannot and will not be the work horse that hustles for business and pounds away at the keyboard for 50+ hours a week.

In fact, 30 hours is more than I can handle.

Long hours may work for some, but for introverts this can lead to burn out, fast.

I’d be a shell of the person I am now.

So instead, I’ve chosen to create a business model that supports passive income.

I’ve chosen to invest in smart technology, systems and tools that operate when I’m not around.

This means I can make money and serve my clients even when catching some Zzzzz.

Even if I’m sat by a pool in Tenerife.

Even if I’m pottering in the garden.

Or binge watching the latest Zombie show on Netflix. Anything zombies is my bag. Yes, it’s a slight obsession!

If something in your business feels difficult or time consuming, put better systems in place or outsource it.

Get the support with whatever it is you need so you can open the doors to growth.

Don’t hide who you are

If you’re the same kind of introvert as I am, you may find that letting people see your true self doesn’t come naturally.

I’ve been through phases of sharing content that’s closed down and super reserved. And phases of going over the top bringing all of the energy and excitement.

Neither of which are really me.

I used to watch videos of people I admired online, and think, wow they’re so fired up. Maybe that’s what I should do too.

But that’s not who I am. I’m more of a calmer, thoughtful presence. One that has resting bitch face and forgets to slap a smile on.

Take that pressure off yourself trying to be someone you’re not.

Just share what’s truly in your heart. Be honest and authentic. That’s all you need to create trust and loyalty in your community. That’s what keeps them coming back for more.

Make space for down time

If you haven’t guessed it yet, as an introvert you absolutely must find space to rest.

Resting protects your energy so you can bounce back with renewed vitality.  

If you’re trying to pour from an empty cup, your physical and mental health can decline. Personal relationships can suffer. And your business growth can grind to a halt.

Take this from someone that’s been there.

Becoming overstimulated by all of the things can be overwhelming for introverts.

And depending on your scale of introversion, how much recharge time you need can vary too.

For me, taking 30 minutes out of my day to read a book or go for a walk often isn’t enough to refuel in any significant way.

I need a good couple of days switched off from the business, people, my phone and the world, to really find myself again.

Ideally, it’d be longer than that.

Take note of when you can feel your energy levels dipping. Then be sure to do what you need to be with yourself for a while.

Whether that’s having a cuppa in the garden for ten minutes, having a relaxing evening at home, or booking yourself a sunny holiday for a week.

I hope you now realise that being an introvert isn’t the disadvantage you may have believed. You simply need to build your business in a way that supports you and your personality.

And if you’d like to learn how you can create more freedom, impact and income in your pet business, head over here to check out the Pet Biz Thrive Online Club.

This is my supportive monthly membership program for pet business owners like you that want to be seen as the go-to pet expert, make more money, and take control of your time.