Escape the Hustle Trap: Build a Business That Gives You More Freedom
What If Your Business Gave You More Freedom—Not Less?
You didn’t start your dog training business to be stuck working all the time. You dreamed of more joy in your work, more freedom, more income, and more time to enjoy life on your terms. But instead of sipping coffee on a quiet morning or planning your next getaway, you’re drowning in client emails, chasing invoices, and feeling like your business owns you.
Sound familiar?
If stepping away from your dog training business—even for a weekend—feels impossible, you’re not alone. The truth is, many business owners build themselves into a cage without realizing it. But here’s the good news: there’s a way out.
You can have a dog training business that thrives without you constantly holding it together. You can take vacations, enjoy time with family, and even escape the harsh winters for somewhere warm. I’m writing this from a sunny beach in Costa Rica—so trust me, it’s possible.)
The Secret: Systems and Smart Delegation
The truth is, running a successful and profitable dog training business takes work. Not only do you need to be at the top of your game with your dog training and behaviour modification skills, you need to have business smarts to thrive, not just survive. But here’s the difference: you can build a successful dog training business that gives you the freedom to live your life rather than consuming it. The key? Systems and teams.
To keep things running smoothly while you’re away, you need:
? Administrative Systems – So your files, finances, taxes, savings, and contingency plans are all in order. ? Operational Systems – So your day-to-day business, like scheduling client appointments, providing feedback, and keeping on top of social media, runs without you micromanaging. ? Communication Systems – So you stay connected with your team, and clients without being glued to your phone or computer. There are no surprises and your customers continue to be served. ? A Reliable Team – Even if you’re a solopreneur, the gift of automation can help take work off your plate and outsourcing when you’re ready, can grow your dog training business - even when you’re not there!?
With these systems in place, your business keeps moving—even when you’re sipping a drink on a beach. Discover My Business Coaching Program
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The Business-Boosting Bonus
Did you know that you can continue to grow your Canine-related education and Dog Training business while travelling? That’s exactly what I’m doing right now! I’m in Costa Rica attending a retreat for professional women dog trainers. And guess what? This isn’t just a trip—it’s a tax-deductible business expense.
Yes, you pay for it upfront, but you can write most of it off at tax time. Investing in your education while enjoying a beautiful location? Sounds like a win-win.
Let’s create a business that supports your lifestyle. – Book a free call, and I’ll help you set up systems that give you more freedom and less stress. Schedule Your Free Call
Ontario Winters vs. Costa Rica Sun
This year, Ontario has had one of the worst winters on record. When I left home, we had more than 70 cm. (that’s two and a half feet) of snow on the ground, ?with much more to come. But I left home because I’ve designed my business to support my life, not control it.
How do I do it??
When I began my professional dog training journey, many years ago, I had a dream to escape the winter weather to train dogs. Funds were tight, so whenever I had excess change, I would put it in a my ‘vacation jar’. I didn’t notice the money missing from my disposable income.? When winter training time rolled around, usually late February or early March, I had accumulated enough money to provide a substantial contribution to my annual dog training trips to the southern U.S. - without any financial stress!??
As my business grew, I was able to establish a dedicated fund and set aside a percentage of my net revenue specifically for leisure as well as for dog-related travel.?
As I continue to move forward -?
? I have financial systems in place, ensuring everything is covered—taxes, savings, emergency funds. ? I have a vacation fund, so I can continue my professional development journey and escape the winter blues without stress. ? My business continues running, and my clients barely notice I’m gone.
The bottom line: your business should support your life, not consume it.
The Reality of Success
It’s no secret—running a dog training business takes work. But doing the work upfront allows you to reap the benefits later. When I started my dog training business several years ago, I wasn’t in Costa Rica. But I put in the effort to build the right systems and structure, and now I have the freedom to be wherever I want, whenever I want.
If you want to achieve the same, let’s chat. I’d love to share how you can set up your dog training business to give you the lifestyle you want.
Continuing Education = Business Growth
How many of you believe in continuing education? If you want your dog training business to thrive, not just survive, then lifelong learning is the key.?
Your commitment to continuing education and growth
? Keeps your mind fresh. ? Brings in new ideas. ? Keeps you up-to-date with industry trends.
?Expands your personal and professional network
That’s exactly why I’m in Costa Rica expanding my business through learning and networking.?
Remember - your network is your net worth.?
A Final Thought
There’s nothing like the feel of beach sand and the ocean under your feet. Right now, I’m standing in the Pacific Ocean in Costa Rica. When I left home, it was buried in snow. I think I made the right move—what do you think?
If you want a business that supports your life, not consumes it, let’s talk. In the Meantime—Pura Vida!
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