Just because it's hard for you doesn't mean it's bad for you

Building a business is tough—but does 'hard' always mean 'bad'? A powerful quote from Jake Humphrey at a gunnercooke event got me thinking.

As someone who's been building my own business for nearly 10 years, I’ve had my share of 'hard' moments. Jake’s words struck a chord with me: 'Just because it’s hard for me doesn’t mean it’s bad for me.' From my own experience and from coaching clients, I know how hard some of the challenges can be:

• Networking or sharing your services with strangers.
• Pitching for work and feeling the sting of rejection.
• Building an online presence on social media.
• Worrying about where the next client will come from—or how to provide for your family.
• Watching deals fall through at the last minute.
• Comparing yourself to others who seem to be thriving while you feel stuck.
• Working so hard that burnout feels inevitable.

The list goes on. Growing a business can be an emotional rollercoaster with incredible highs (winning new clients, hitting goals) and crushing lows (dry periods, broken deals). It’s no wonder the journey feels overwhelming at times.

But here’s the truth: "Just because it’s hard for me doesn’t mean it’s bad for me."

Hard things teach us. They push us to grow, adapt, and come back stronger. My clients—amazing people building businesses for themselves and their families—feel this too.

So if today and this week feels hard, take heart. Not all hard things are bad for you. Feel the emotions. Learn the lesson. Then pick yourself up and keep going. ??

??I'm Kerry, an Executive Coach, supporting business owners, partners and senior leaders to grow brilliant businesses whilst enjoying the journey.