Streamlining Your Business for Growth: Q1 Lessons & Changes
Cozypreneur Episode 27
Running a business can easily become overwhelming—especially when you’re juggling multiple offers, marketing strategies, and endless tasks. That’s why my focus in Q1 was all about streamlining. By simplifying my services, refining my marketing, and improving my systems, I’ve created a business that feels easier to manage and more aligned with my goals.
If you’re in a season of refining your business or looking to create more clarity in your offers, here’s what worked for me—and how you can do the same.
Why I Stepped Away from Coaching
(For Now)
After three years of working with multiple coaches, I decided to pause coaching and focus on trusting myself. While I’ve learned invaluable insights from past coaching experiences, I realized I didn’t need more ideas—I needed time to implement what I already knew.
Instead of relying on external validation for every decision, I’m leaning into self-trust, refining my strategies, and giving them time to work.
That’s not to say I’m navigating my business alone. I’m part of peer support groups, including a local mastermind, where I connect with other entrepreneurs for accountability and fresh ideas. This season has been less about learning new strategies and more about building confidence in what I already know works.
Switching to Hourly Retainers for Flexibility
There’s a lot of advice in the online space that says never charge hourly—but I’ve found that switching to hourly retainers has been a game-changer for my business.
Hourly retainers give me the flexibility to:
Adapt to my clients’ shifting priorities
Manage my time more easily without estimating hours for fixed packages
Deepen my client relationships by working more like a partner than a deliverable-based service provider
By tracking hours and setting clear boundaries with clients, I’ve been able to simplify planning and provide more valuable, personalized support.
Restructuring Copy Classroom for a Better Experience
Copy Classroom is my membership where I support entrepreneurs with personalized copy feedback. But instead of adding new programs or complicated course launches, I focused on simplifying what I already had.
I combined my previous beta courses into Copy Classroom, turning it into a one-stop resource where members can access training, submit copy for review, and get the personalized support they need—all in one place.
I also added a new membership tier for business owners who write copy for their own clients. Now, those members can get feedback on client projects, giving them added confidence and improving their client experience.
Improving Client Onboarding and Systems
With the help of my sister (who’s amazing with operations), I revamped my entire client onboarding process. What once took up to an hour now takes 10-15 minutes.
By consolidating my lead generation forms and proposal templates, I’ve saved time and created a smoother experience for my clients.
This change didn’t just reduce busywork—it freed me up to focus more on client strategy and creative work.
Revising My Welcome Sequence to Increase Conversions
As part of my goal to grow my email list, I realized my welcome sequence wasn’t doing its job. It felt disjointed from being pieced together over time.
I rewrote the entire sequence to create a smoother, more intentional flow. Now, new subscribers are introduced to my services in a way that feels natural, and I’m excited to see how this new version performs.
Key Takeaways for Streamlining Your Business
If you’re feeling overwhelmed in your business, here’s what I’d recommend:
Trust your instincts — You know your business better than anyone. Give yourself time to implement what you’ve learned.
Simplify your offers — Focus on what works best for your business and clients. Sometimes less is more.
Refine your systems — Small changes, like improving your onboarding or welcome sequence, can save you hours of work.
Prioritize visibility — Even while simplifying, focus on getting in front of new audiences to keep growing your business.
As I move into Q2, my focus is on continuing to refine my systems and fill my client calendar with hourly retainers. I’ll be sharing my progress at the end of the next quarter, so stay tuned!
What’s Your Focus for Q2?
I’d love to hear what you’re working on in your business! DM me on Instagram at @stacybragacopy and let me know your biggest Q1 wins or what you’re focusing on next.
Connect with Stacy:
Website: Stacy Braga Copy Studio || Copywriter for Entrepreneurs
Instagram: @stacybragacopy
Threads: @stacybragacopy
Podcast Credits:
Podcast edit by: Chelsea Koenigsknecht of KC Virtual, Instagram: @KC_Virtual
Music by: teodholina, teodholina - Pixabay
