Take me back to a moment that shifted everything for me.
Imagine this: I sat on the floor, with cardboard packaging material around me, bubble wrap attached to my elbow, and my 2-year-old “assistant” conveniently ripping shipping labels as if they were stickers. My living room resembled a mini warehouse, and my chai had become cold—for the third time.
And yet… I was unstoppable.
That small, crazy instant was the first time I fulfilled 20 orders in a single day. For a small business that began on a borrowed laptop and a hand-me-down desk, it was like winning the lottery.
And here’s the thing: that feeling—that spark—is something you can totally create in your own small business, even in the midst of a crowded, scroll-happy world.
Let’s get into how. (And no, it doesn’t include viral dances. Unless you’re into that. No judgment.)
It All Starts With a Story—Yours
When I started out, I thought I needed the perfect logo, the perfect tagline, perhaps even a fancy website. But what really made people stop scrolling and begin paying attention?
I told the story of how I made my very first product—a homemade, all-natural scrub using kitchen staples and my grandmother’s recipe. I shared a fuzzy photo (no filters, sorry!) and explained how I used it during pregnancy to calm my skin. Social media has a big part to play—particularly sites like Instagram, where images meet words in the most powerful way.
It wasn’t a pitch. It was a moment. And people felt it.
That’s the thing—stories stick. People might forget what you sell, but they’ll remember how you made them feel.
Your Product Is More Than a Product
One of my first customers once texted me, “I just used your bath salts after a 14-hour shift… I feel like a human again.”
That text? Screenshot. Framed in my heart forever.
Regardless of whether you’re selling chutneys, coaching, crochet, or candles—you’re not only selling products. You’re creating moments. Ease. Comfort. Joy. Relief.
One mother explained that using my meal planner had helped her cut back on ordering takeout 4 times a week. A teenager indicated that her self-esteem increased using the skincare kit I created specifically for acne skin. Another entrepreneur relies on my personalized journals to keep her focused.
You’re making a difference in tiny, lovely ways. Don’t ever forget that.
Embrace the Chaos—That’s Where the Magic Happens
I once printed 50 flyers for a pop-up event… and neglected to include my contact number on them. Yep. Classic newbie mistake.
But on the same day, a customer approached, glanced at my hand-crafted display (which I had propped up on an old suitcase), and said, “Wow. This feels like home.”
That sale? She purchased for her sister’s wedding, later returning for Diwali presents. She’s a repeat customer who sends half of her colony these days.
So here’s the thing: the messy moments lead to magical connections. Perfection is overrated. Personality trumps everything.
Let People In. Not Just to Your Products—but Your World.
Humans love watching behind-the-scenes stuff. Show them your workspace, your little rituals, the bloopers. I once posted a reel of me attempting to create product labels as my daughter attempted to devour one. It went mini-viral—not because it was polished, but because it was authentic.
And somewhere amidst the laughter and the “aww” remarks, orders came in.
Because people don’t necessarily want products. They want belonging. Let them glimpse behind the curtain, and they’ll be cheering you on like they used to back home.
Celebrate the Little Wins (They’re Not So Little)
Your first 10 sales? That’s a party.
Your first bad review (ah, but we’ve all had to learn one way or another)? That’s learning.
Your first Instagram direct message telling you “I’ve been watching you forever, and just finally ordered”? That’s influence.
Your small business is a series of small wins that are combined to equal something great.
Mine began with selling to family and friends. Then strangers on the internet. Then pop-ups, collaborations, bulk orders… Now, I’ll catch myself looking at my task list and think, “Whoa, this is real. This is happening.”
Final Thoughts
In today’s extremely competitive market, being noticed as a small business isn’t about outshouting or outspending the competition—it’s about creating real connections, providing consistent value, and highlighting the special story behind your brand.
Your passion, commitment, and care are what really distinguish you. Through your story, showing the actual-world effect of your items, and being engaged with your viewers, you form something much more enduring than a deal—you form trust.
Remember, each interaction, each small victory, and each happy customer adds up to a greater story of growth and influence. Keep leading with purpose, serving with heart, and innovating with courage.
Because even in a crowded marketplace, companies founded on passion and integrity will always find a home—and a lasting legacy.
