Over the years, I’ve learned that there are some big differences between business owners who see themselves as the “CEO,” of their company, and not just “self-employed.”

I had to make the shift myself, once I saw that just doing what I had “always done” wasn’t going to take me to where I wanted to go next. It became time to step it up and run a “big girl business.” 🙂

Here are 4 key differences that distinguish the two:

1. CEOs build the plane as they’re flying it.

CEOs understand that you must get comfortable with taking imperfect action.

We truly are our own worst critics, and I know the “perfectionism” thing very well.

But this is where we must get out of our own way and ask ourselves: what have I been putting off?

Do your best, take big action, and course correct as needed.

2. CEOs make numbers their friends.

There is a sweet spot between ignoring and over-analyzing the numbers in your business.

Without a doubt, you should always know what you’re making!

Early on, I did a great job at ignoring my expenses particularly. Gross does not mean net, and I had to pay much closer attention.

Interestingly, as soon as I did, my income took off.

Here is a simple but very important question to ask yourself around this: what do I need to do to get the numbers where I want them? (Then do that!)

3. CEOs know when you grow your business, you grow yourself

We allow self-sabotage when we say we want one thing, but deep down we really believe another.

“They won’t pay for it.”

“I’m not experienced enough.”

“There is too much competition, so why even try.”

It’s all fear-based.

Ask yourself: have you allowed fear to stop you from taking action?

4. CEOs are passionate.

Passion really is the key to success and fulfillment in any field. You must love what you do, or it will be too easy to give up when things get challenging. (And they will.)

Here is one place to start: if you find yourself consistently doing what you don’t like, ask yourself whether you can “pivot” direction or outsource or delegate.

Ultimately, you only want to be doing the things you are uniquely brilliant at, and nothing else. (You’ll make so much more money when you do this.)

So, what’s next for you now that these differences are clear?

Where do YOU need to step into the CEO space?

First, take an honest look at what you’ve put off. Then, audit any “money chaos” that may be going on.

You also want to compassionately observe where you may be playing “small” in your business, or where you’re doing too much of what you don’t particularly enjoy.

It’s worth it, because taking these steps will place you firmly in the CEO camp, and it’s a great place to be!