There's a difference between running a business and playing at one.

In this episode of The Experienced Entrepreneur, Marissa Lawton breaks down what it really means to work hard without burning out — and how to reclaim your energy through intentional effort.

You'll learn how to spot the difference between hustle (reactive, fear-based, endless) and a sprint (focused, strategic, time-bound). Marissa shares her framework for designing "seasons of sprint" that move your business forward without tipping you into exhaustion — including how to track what's working, when to rest, and how to tell if you're running your business or if it's running you.

If you've been feeling like slowing down means losing progress, this episode will help you reframe your relationship with effort, rebuild trust in your discipline, and remember that running a real business takes time, energy, and heart.

In this episode, you'll learn:

• The crucial difference between hustle and hard work

• Why running a business should take effort — and how to make that effort sustainable

• The five key elements of a healthy sprint: purpose, time frame, metrics, focus, and rest

• How to recognize when you're sprinting intentionally versus avoiding stillness

• Why rest isn't a reward, but a strategic part of your success rhythm

Listen to Episode 9: Hustle vs. Sprint — How to Be Ambitious Without Burning Out