Well Well Well

There's an undeniable truth in business that often gets overlooked in our rush to create content, serve clients, and build our brands: what we track grows. This isn't just a catchy phrase – it's a fundamental principle that can transform how we approach business development and achieve meaningful growth.

Beyond Basic Bookkeeping

Let's be clear – while basic bookkeeping is essential for tax purposes and legal compliance, true financial intelligence in business goes far deeper. We need to think beyond the basic revenue and expense tracking that our accountants require. (Though we certainly don't want to skip that part!)

Modern businesses have several solid options for managing basic bookkeeping needs. Some entrepreneurs start with manual tracking in spreadsheets, which can work perfectly well for businesses with minimal monthly transactions. As operations grow more complex, software solutions like FreshBooks or QuickBooks can automate much of the process, learning from past categorizations and streamlining monthly reconciliation.

For businesses ready to completely remove bookkeeping from their plate, services combining smart software with human oversight can transform this necessary task from a dreaded chore into a source of clarity and insight. The key is choosing the right solution for your current business stage and complexity level.

Creating a Number-Tracking Ritual

Numbers aren't just cold data points – they're the heartbeat of our businesses. Creating a monthly ritual around tracking and analyzing our numbers can shift this task from an obligation into an opportunity for deeper business understanding and strategic planning.

We've found that successful tracking requires three core elements:

Regular Cadence: Schedule a specific time each month for reviewing numbers. Whether it's the first Monday or the last Friday, consistency helps ensure this vital task doesn't get lost in the shuffle of daily operations.

Comprehensive Scope: Track both financial metrics and other relevant business indicators. While revenue matters, equally important are metrics like email list growth, social media engagement, podcast downloads, or whatever specifically indicates growth in your business model.

Strategic Response: Numbers should inform action. When we notice we're ahead of goals, we might push for an even higher milestone. If we're behind, we can implement specific strategies to course-correct before small gaps become major issues.

Essential Metrics Worth Tracking

Every business has unique indicators of success, but certain metrics deserve attention across most business models:

Sales Metrics:

* Annual, quarterly, and monthly goals versus actuals

* Breakdown of revenue by product or service type

* Payment plan preferences (full payment vs. installments)

* Customer acquisition costs

* Return on marketing investment

Operational Metrics:

* Wage-to-revenue ratios (aim for 20-30% in most service businesses)

* Key expense categories specific to your business model”

* Software costs

* Marketing spend

Growth Indicators:

* Email list size

* Social media following

* Website traffic

* Content engagement

* Client retention rates

The Art of Response

The true power of tracking emerges not from the numbers themselves but from our response to them. When we notice we're 20% behind our monthly goal, we can implement flash sales, special offers, or targeted email campaigns. When we're exceeding expectations, we might set stretch goals that push us to even greater heights.

This responsive approach transforms tracking from a passive recording of history into an active tool for business growth. Each number becomes a conversation starter, a question asker, a possibility creator.

Making It Your Own

While these tracking principles remain consistent, their application should be uniquely yours. Create spreadsheets that speak your language, using terms and categories that align with your business model. Add notes to explain significant changes or successful strategies, building a business history that informs future decisions.

Remember, tracking isn't about judgment – it's about awareness and opportunity. Every business starts somewhere, and early numbers only matter as stepping stones to future growth. The key lies not in the specific numbers but in our commitment to watching them, understanding them, and using them to fuel intentional growth.

Ultimately, regular number tracking becomes less about maintaining records and more about maintaining connection – with our business's health, its growth trajectory, and its future potential. When we embrace this practice as a creative, strategic ritual rather than a dry obligation, we transform our relationship with our business's financial story and open new pathways to sustainable growth.

Let's talk about something that makes most entrepreneurs want to run and hide – financial reports. But here's the thing: we've discovered that understanding your Profit & Loss statement (P&L) is actually the most empowering tool you can have in your business arsenal. And we promise it's not as complicated as it seems!

We both remember the days of looking at financial reports with that deer-in-headlights expression. Sandy even had a controller in her brick-and-mortar business who would hand her detailed reports each month, and she spent years pretending to understand them completely (spoiler alert: she didn't!). But now? We get excited about checking our P&L because it tells us exactly how our business is performing.

Here's what we've learned: Your P&L is simply a snapshot of your business's money story. It shows your revenue (all the money coming in), your cost of goods (what you spend to create your offerings), and your other expenses (everything else you need to run your business).

Let's break it down with a real example. In Jeni's product-based business, Woodland Alchemy, understanding the P&L has been crucial, especially when supply costs increased due to tariffs with China. By knowing her numbers, she could make smart decisions about adjusting wholesale prices to maintain healthy profit margins.

We love that we're not intimidated by these numbers anymore. It feels incredibly powerful to look at our financials and know exactly what they mean. And here's something we want you to know – it's totally okay if you're just learning this stuff now.

Here's what we've discovered works best:

* We review our numbers each month (though we usually wait a couple weeks after month-end for all the data to come in)

* We use Quickbooks for our bookkeeping to keep everything organized

* We regularly check our expenses to cut what we don't use (those sneaky software subscriptions add up!)

* We focus more energy on increasing revenue than obsessing over every tiny expense

The most liberating thing we've learned? Breaking even in your first year is actually a win. Sometimes you need to spend money to make money, and that's perfectly okay. The goal isn't to become an accountant – it's to understand your business's story through numbers.

Understanding your P&L isn't just about the numbers – it's about feeling confident and in control of your business decisions. It's about making choices from a place of knowledge rather than fear. And honestly? That feels pretty amazing.

Let's talk about something that makes many entrepreneurs break out in a cold sweat: looking at their business numbers. You know what we mean - those spreadsheets that hold the truth about your revenue, expenses, and profit margins—the ones you might be avoiding, like that mountain of laundry in your bedroom.

Here's the thing: Your relationship with your numbers isn't just about bookkeeping - it's about taking control of your financial future. And we’re here to tell you why it's time to stop hiding and start embracing your role as the CEO of your finances.

The Princess Syndrome: Why We Avoid Our Numbers

Let's be real for a minute. There's this tendency, especially among women entrepreneurs, to play the "someone save me" card when it comes to finances. We tell ourselves stories like:

* "I'm not good with numbers"

* "Spreadsheets terrify me"

* "Looking at the numbers takes me out of my creative flow"

* "My partner/accountant handles all that stuff"

Sound familiar? We get it. We've been there. But here's the uncomfortable truth: you'll never achieve true success if you're running your business with your head buried in the sand.

Numbers Are Neutral - Your Stories Aren't

Here's a mindset shift that changed everything for us: Numbers are 100% neutral. Whether your monthly revenue is $500 or $100,000, that's simply a fact. It's not a judgment on your worth, your talent, or your potential. It's just data.

But oh boy, does our mind love to spin stories around these numbers:

* "I'm not good enough"

* "Nobody wants what I'm offering"

* "I'll never make it in this business"

* "Everyone else is doing better than me"

The problem isn't the numbers - it's the narrative we create around them. When you feel shame about your numbers, you're likely to avoid looking at them altogether. And that's exactly where growth goes to die.

The Path to Financial Independence Starts with Facing Reality

Let's talk about what's possible when you start embracing your numbers. We're not just talking about financial security (though having enough buffer to weather life's storms is crucial). We're talking about financial independence - the ability to support yourself and your dreams without relying on anyone else.

And yes, this is possible even if:

* You're running your business part-time

* You have kids

* You're starting from zero

* You've avoided your numbers for years

Practical Steps to Take Control of Your Numbers

1. Separate Personal and Business Finances

This isn't just about organization - it's about protection. In the US, form an LLC and get an EIN (Employer Identification Number) from the IRS. In Canada, create a holding company. Then, open a separate business bank account. This creates a legal shield between your personal assets and your business.

Pro tip: Never co-mingle personal and business funds. In legal terms, this "pierces the corporate veil" and could leave your personal assets vulnerable.

2. Track Every Transaction

You need to record everything that comes in and goes out of your business. We'll talk about specific tools in a moment, but the important thing is to start somewhere. Every dollar should be accounted for.

3. Partner with an Accountant

Here's something we wish someone had told us earlier: Your accountant should be your business partner, not just someone who files your taxes once a year. Find someone who:

* Makes you feel comfortable asking "dumb" questions

* Helps you plan for the future

* Reviews your numbers quarterly

* Explains things in terms you understand

Pro tip: Record your meetings with your accountant (with their permission) and take detailed notes. You'll thank yourself later.

Celebrating Every Win

One practice that transformed our business was celebrating every single sale. Whether it's a $27 digital product or a $5,000 coaching package, each sale gets acknowledged. This isn't just about feeling good - it's about building momentum and maintaining perspective.

It's easy to get discouraged when you're just starting because you're not hitting the big numbers you dream about. But remember: You can't get to 100 sales without first getting to 10. Each sale is proof that:

* Your business model works

* People value what you offer

* You're building momentum

Making Data-Driven Decisions

Here's a reality check: Your business goals are basically educated guesses until you have at least a year of data. That's okay! Everyone starts somewhere. But real business growth comes from understanding your patterns:

* Compare this November to last November, not to last month

* Look for seasonal trends

* Track multiple metrics (not just revenue)

* Use data to make projections

Tools of the Trade

Let's talk about some practical tools that can make this journey easier:

* Stripe's mobile app for real-time sales notifications (nothing beats the dopamine hit of a sale notification!)

* Accounting software (Quickbooks or Freshbooks are great options)

* Spreadsheets for tracking metrics beyond just finances

The Road to Financial Freedom

Whether your goal is building a cushion for emergencies or achieving complete financial independence, it all starts with facing your numbers head-on. The beauty of passive income businesses is that money can come in while you're playing with your kids or sleeping - but you need to understand your numbers to build that reality.

Remember: Your numbers are just data points on your journey. They're not a reflection of your worth, but they are indicators of what's working and what needs attention. The sooner you embrace them, the sooner you can use them to build the business and life you dream about.

Start small. Look at one number today. Celebrate one sale. Ask one "dumb" question. Your future self will thank you for taking these first steps toward financial intelligence.

You've poured your heart into creating an amazing online course or membership site. You're posting regularly in your community, sharing valuable content, and waiting for the likes and comments to roll in. But instead of a chatty community, you're met with... crickets.

Your immediate thought? "I'm failing. No one likes this. It's not working."

Hold that thought. We’ve helped countless creators build successful online programs and we’re here to tell you why low engagement might not be the red flag you think it is.

The Silent Majority: Understanding Lurker Culture

Most of your members are probably lurkers, and that's completely okay. We both confess - we’re lurkers, too. Put us in an in-person workshop front row center, and we’re the ones asking questions and soaking up every detail. But in an online space? We both transform into observers. We read everything, process it all, but rarely feel compelled to drop an emoji or write "Great post!"

And guess what? There are tons of people just like us.

The 2025 Reality Check

It's not 2015 anymore. Back then, online communities were novel and exciting. People would eagerly jump into every "Welcome Wednesday" or "Share Your Win" thread. Today? We're all members of multiple online spaces, and community fatigue is real – especially post-pandemic.

This doesn't mean online communities can't thrive. They absolutely can. But success in 2025 looks different than it did a decade ago. You can't just tack on a community feature and expect magic to happen. The days of "if you build it, they will engage" are over.

Value Doesn't Always Equal Visible Engagement

You don't know what someone is getting from your offering unless they tell you. And here's the kicker – they might be getting exactly what they need without ever making a peep.

Think about it this way: Out of 100 videos in your program, what if someone only watches two? Your first instinct might be to see this as a failure. But what if those two videos were exactly what they needed? What if they're watching those same two videos repeatedly, implementing the strategies, and getting massive value?

Some people even find value in simply knowing they have access to your content or expertise. It's like having a safety net – they might not use it every day, but knowing it's there brings peace of mind.

The Community Conundrum: To Have or Not to Have?

If you're running an online program, you might be wrestling with whether to include a community component. Here's our take: It depends entirely on your business model and audience.

Some businesses thrive on community engagement – it's their central hub, their main attraction. But forcing a community aspect when it doesn't naturally fit? It never works.

Consider your audience:

* Are they introverts or extroverts?

* How busy are they?

* Is your topic sensitive or private?

* Are they new to the space or seasoned veterans?

The answers to these questions should guide your community strategy.

The New Member Effect

New members are typically your most engaged community participants. They're excited, they're introducing themselves, they're "shaking their tail feathers". This energy is fantastic – but it's also temporary.

As members settle in, their engagement often naturally decreases. This isn't a bad thing; it's just the natural evolution of their journey. Your long-term members might pop in occasionally to mentor newcomers or answer questions, but they're not going to play "share your favorite breakfast food" games anymore.

Setting Clear Boundaries

One often-overlooked aspect of running online communities is the importance of ground rules. People tend to be bolder (and sometimes brasher) behind a keyboard than in real life. Whether you're discussing business numbers or sensitive personal topics, clear guidelines about acceptable behavior and information sharing are crucial.

The Bottom Line

Before you spiral into "my program is failing" territory because of low engagement, remember:

* Engagement metrics aren't always accurate measures of value

* Silent members might be your most successful ones

* The online community landscape has evolved – your expectations should too

* Know your audience and build accordingly

Instead of making assumptions, gather real data. Ask for feedback regularly. Make it safe and easy for members to tell you what they need. But most importantly, don't let low engagement numbers shake your confidence. Your impact might be much bigger than your engagement metrics suggest.

Remember: Base your thinking on facts, not feelings. Your members might be getting exactly what they need – they're just doing it quietly.

And sometimes, that's perfectly fine.

Every wellness practitioner should incorporate one-on-one sessions into their business model regardless if their brand new or a seasoned vet.

Here are 3 Reasons Why:

Deeper Client Relationships

Private sessions create personalized experiences that build trust and loyalty. In 2025, we're seeing clients increasingly seek authentic connections with their wellness practitioners rather than relying solely on digital content or group settings.

Generate More Revenue

We've found that one-on-one sessions can provide significant income, especially compared to lower-priced membership offerings. Even a few sessions per week can help cover business operating costs. We strongly recommend charging appropriately for your expertise rather than competing on price – being the cheapest option doesn’t mean you’ll sell more. You can choose to apply their fee to a larger package.

Find New Clients for Your Other Offers

We've seen private sessions serve as an effective gateway to larger paid programs or memberships. They give potential clients a low-commitment way to experience your teaching style while allowing you to assess client fit.

Leveraging the Well Well Well Marketplace

Because we believe so strongly in private sessions, we’ve added an entire section to our wellness marketplace, Well Well Well, where you can list your private sessions. Think of it like a public directory for expert practitioners offering private sessions.

Super Easy Setup

Well Well Well integrates with Google Calendar for seamless scheduling and includes customizable intake forms. We love that listings remain visible indefinitely, unlike time-bound class offerings.

You Look Professional

It’s 2025, folks. There’s no need for clunky software and tools that frustrate your clients.All listings on Well Well Well have

* SEO-optimized listings so the people googling “I can’t sleep” can find you

* A modern and slick checkout experience

* Built-in marketing support where your biggest decision is which photo of yourself to use.

* A public directory accessible through search engines and AI tools

We know. We know. You’ve got some objections.

“I don’t have time.”

We understand the time concern – that's why we've made sure that you can control your availability with a Google Calendar integration. Open small (or large!) windows of time when you can commit to offering sessions. Plus the automations with the platform mean you don’t have to spend You won’t ever be double booked, and your clients The platform prevents double-booking and automatically adjusts availability.

“I don’t know enough yet.”

We've worked with thousands of practitioners, and we know that new practitioners can provide value in one-on-one sessions - even when your brain is telling you, “You’re not ready!!” By starting with privates, you begin to build your expertise by learning your client’s r fears, motivations, issues and. It’s an opportunity to learn if what your teaching is resonating and gives you the chance to adjust. And all this time working with people is the best market research you could do. Just start.

How to Get Started

Here's what we recommend:

* Create a specific, clear title for your offering (avoid generic "private session" descriptions)

* Use professional photos of yourself rather than stock images

* Set value-based pricing aligned with your experience level

* Utilize the built-in tools for scheduling and client communication

We believe one-on-one sessions provide an essential foundation for building a successful wellness business, offering both immediate income and valuable client insights for developing scalable offerings.

Note: The Well Well Well marketplace is available exclusively to Marvelous platform clients. Visit heymarvelous.com to learn more.

As business owners in the wellness space, we often wrestle with a challenging question: when tragedy strikes, should we pause our marketing efforts? In this episode, we dive into this difficult topic, drawing from our own experiences and missteps to help you navigate these sensitive situations.

When to Consider Pausing Marketing

Marketing during crisis moments requires thoughtful consideration rather than reactive decisions.

* You Feel Personally Impacted: If you or your team is directly affected by a crisis, it’s okay to pause your marketing. This is a human decision, not just a business one.

* Solidarity and Values Alignment: Sometimes, pausing is a gesture of solidarity with a cause that resonates with you personally. You may choose to pause marketing to stand with particular communities or causes (e.g., racial injustice, climate crises, humanitarian crises).

* Consider Your Audience’s Focus: It’s appropriate to pause (or not plan) marketing campaigns when your audience’s attention is elsewhere, such as during major global events (e.g., elections, or significant humanitarian crises).

* Sensitivity to Your Brand: Don’t be tone-deaf (like promoting a “fire-sale” product during a literal wildfire). Timing and empathy are important in preserving your brand’s integrity.

When to Keep Your Marketing Going

We learned through experience that pausing marketing isn't always the right answer. In 2020, we made a costly mistake by halting our paid ad campaigns for weeks out of fear of criticism while our venture-backed competitors continued marketing. This taught us valuable lessons about running our business from a place of confidence rather than fear.

The reality is that tragedy is constant somewhere in the world, and your business serving people doesn't become less important during difficult times. Small businesses, particularly women-owned companies, often face different standards than large corporations. Yet it's crucial to remember that your business supports employees, clients, and families.

Here are some tips to consider if you want or need to continue your marketing:

* Real-World Constraints: For many business owners—marketing and revenue generation are ongoing necessities for sustainability. It’s okay to continue your marketing if pausing would jeopardize your business’s survival.

* Not Ignoring the Crisis: Simply acknowledging the crisis. It’s about balance: continue your emails but with sensitivity. For example, sharing empathy, acknowledging the crisis, and providing resources to help.

* Find a Middle Ground: Try acknowledging the event without abandoning your regular marketing. For example, a special email acknowledging the tragedy, sharing resources for help, or donating a portion of proceeds to relief efforts.

* Transparency and Authenticity: It’s okay to communicate with your audience and let them know your stance. People appreciate authenticity, especially in times of crisis. Being upfront with your community can build deeper trust and connection.

What NOT to Do:

What should you absolutely avoid?

* Profiting Off a Tragedy: Never exploit a crisis for profit. For example, don’t hold a “Fire Sale” when there’s a wildfire.

* Tone-Deaf Messaging: Aligning your marketing with the current atmosphere. For example, if you’re running a campaign, ensure it’s relevant to the moment and doesn't feel like a hard sell.

* Don’t Ignore It: Simply ignoring the situation can come off as callous or disconnected. Recognize that silence or neglect can be just as harmful as inappropriate marketing.

You can be both compassionate and professional – they're not mutually exclusive.

There’s no right answer here. You have to find what feels authentic and responsible for you and your business. And always stay grounded in your values.

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Have you ever wondered what happens when art meets movement meets emotional intelligence? That's exactly what we explored in our latest conversation with the incredible Tiffany Sankary.

Tiffany runs Movement and Creativity from her home base in Somerville, Massachusetts, where she's created this beautiful blend of Feldenkrais practice with creative expression. Her journey into this work started with a single Feldenkrais session that literally changed how she felt in her own body. As she puts it, "I felt beautiful, which I hadn't been feeling in a long time. And I also felt like my hip joints had been oiled." How's that for a transformative experience?

But here's where it gets really interesting. Tiffany isn't your typical wellness practitioner. She brings an artist's eye to everything she does, which led her to spend 10 years creating "Feldenkrais Illustrated: The Art of Learning" - a gorgeous book that makes complex movement concepts accessible through art.

She's also expanded her practice to include the Jeremy Krauss Approach (JKA), which adds strength and stability work to the traditional Feldenkrais method. And then there's Organic Intelligence®, which she describes as the missing emotional piece that helps practitioners connect with clients who might not be ready to enter through the "movement door."

What we loved most about our conversation was Tiffany's refreshingly authentic approach to business. While many online creators get caught up in formulaic marketing, she stays true to her artistic roots, trying different approaches with genuine curiosity rather than getting hung up on immediate results. It's clearly working - her online membership is thriving, and she gets the most heartwarming feedback from clients who experience both physical relief and creative awakening through her work.

After a year focused on depth in 2024, Tiffany's moving toward simplicity in 2025. It's fascinating to hear how she's navigating the balance between running a successful online business and maintaining the fresh, creative spirit that makes her work so special.

The best part? When clients tell her "my shoulder feels better AND I feel creatively inspired" - that's when she knows the magic is really happening. Whether it's a writer finding new flow after addressing carpal tunnel or an artist discovering new ways to move while creating, Tiffany's work shows us how interconnected our physical, emotional, and creative wellbeing truly are.

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