Starting something new—whether it’s a side hustle, a course, or a whole new venture—can be daunting. You’re navigating the fog of uncertainty while trying to avoid mistakes. But what if mistakes were a part of the plan? My recent conversation with Brandon White, entrepreneur, investor, and seasoned business planner, was a masterclass in turning fear into strategy and ideas into actionable steps.

Here are the key takeaways for course creators and entrepreneurs looking to scale their mission-driven work.

Brandon shared a valuable insight: expect mistakes. They’re a natural part of any journey, especially when starting something new. The key is not to avoid them but to minimize their impact and recover quickly. Mistakes often offer the most important lessons.

"The truth is most people are much closer to success than they think, but they quit too soon because they scare themselves," Brandon reminded us.

For course creators, this means letting go of perfectionism. Launch that first draft of your online course. You’ll learn, adapt, and improve along the way.

Many of us dread the idea of writing a business plan. It feels overwhelming and unnecessary—until we realize it’s a lifeline. A good business plan clarifies your goals, identifies your audience, and ensures your efforts are sustainable.

Here’s a simplified framework Brandon recommends:

Even for an online course, this blueprint helps ensure your passion aligns with the practical steps needed to succeed.

One of the biggest mistakes is going too broad. Instead, get specific. Are you creating a course for therapists burned out from 60-hour weeks? Or for parents looking for mindful ways to manage family stress?

Brandon emphasized, "The better you define your audience, the easier it is to stand out from the competition and speak their language."

Knowing your audience deeply also makes marketing easier. You’re not just selling a course; you’re offering a tailored solution.

Financial planning isn’t just numbers—it’s a story of your business’s health and potential. As Brandon said, "If you don’t know where your money is coming from, everything dies."

For course creators, this means understanding your costs (platform fees, marketing expenses) and potential income (pricing models, course tiers). Break it down into manageable chunks. How many students do you need to cover your costs and make a profit? This clarity fuels confidence.

A business plan shouldn’t be a massive document gathering dust on a shelf. Keep it short, actionable, and update it regularly. Think of it as a living roadmap that evolves as you do.

"It’s not about writing a perfect plan," Brandon explained. "It’s about using it to guide your actions and adjust as you learn."

Whether you’re diversifying into online courses or starting your first side hustle, the tools Brandon shared offer clarity and courage. By embracing mistakes, crafting a business plan, and staying focused on your audience, you’re not just creating a course—you’re building a sustainable, mission-driven venture.

Now, it’s your turn. Start small, stay specific, and let your passion lead. And remember, the best way to predict your future is to create it.