31/01/2026
Last year, I spent almost £8,000 on business memberships, networking groups, exclusive events, awards ceremonies, subscriptions to business directories… the whole lot.
I showed up.
I put myself out there.
I met new people, made new connections, attended business days, dressed up for awards nights and ticked all the “you should be doing this” boxes.
But here’s the honest reflection…
Was it the best way to invest my money for my business?
For me — no.
What I found was that much of it became an elaborate (and very expensive) way to socialise with other businesses. Lovely people, great conversations, but not always meaningful growth, traction, or return.
Recently, I won an award (which I’m grateful for)… and then I was told if I wanted the trophy, it would be another £395.
My last one? It sat in a drawer after being shown off for a week.
So it made me stop and really ask myself:
Is this where my money is best spent when I’m trying to keep my business alive, growing, and sustainable?
This year, I’m choosing differently.
✨ Fewer memberships
✨ More intention
✨ Smarter marketing
✨ Consistency over appearances
I’m focusing on building my business the old-fashioned way talking to people, nurturing real relationships, showing up consistently, doing the work, and putting my energy (and money) where it actually moves the needle.
Networking isn’t bad. Awards aren’t bad.
But blind spending because “everyone else is doing it”? That’s something I’m done with.
I plan to be more present, more strategic, and more honest about what actually works for your business not just what looks good on the outside.
If this resonates, you’re not alone 🤍
If you don’t already know my businesses here they are ⬇️
