Am I building a business that aligns with my values and long-term vision?

That's a critical question, and it's one that requires a deep dive into both your current business model and your personal values and vision. Let's break it down into more manageable steps.

First, self-reflection is key. Ask yourself: What are my core values? What is my long-term vision for both my life and my business? How do I want my business to impact my life and the lives of others? At this stage, journaling or having candid conversations with trusted friends or mentors can bring clarity.

Once you’ve got a clear picture, the next step is alignment evaluation. Look at your business model: Does it support the lifestyle you envision? Check if your daily activities and business operations reflect your values. For instance, if sustainability is a core value, are your business practices environmentally friendly? If freedom is a priority, does your business allow for the flexibility you desire?

In my journey, I often use the Capture, Develop, Expose framework as a sanity check to ensure my work is aligned with my goals. - Capture the essence of what you want your business to represent. This could be through vision boards, mission statements, or simply writing down your end goals. - Develop systems or strategies that support these values. For example, create a workflow that reminds you to prioritize projects that align with your vision of impact over income. - Expose your business to opportunities and audiences that resonate with your core beliefs, ensuring that your brand’s exposure matches what you stand for.

Finally, remember this is an iterative process. Your values and vision might evolve, and that’s perfectly okay. Allow yourself the flexibility to pivot and adjust. When I left my engineering career for creative entrepreneurship, I didn’t have all the answers either. It was through trial, error, and continuous alignment with my values that I found a path that resonated with me.

Take a step back occasionally, review your progress, and give yourself permission to redefine success on your terms. It’s in these honest assessments that true alignment unfolds.