Let’s Get Real About Systems
Alright, let’s talk systems—because chaos isn’t cute, and winging it only works for birds. I recently guested on The Business Animal Podcast with Kim Beer, and let me just say, we covered it all—from vision boards to actual systems that help you achieve your business goals.
Spoiler alert: systems aren’t one-size-fits-all. If you’ve ever felt like you’re stuck in a hamster wheel of inefficiency, this episode is for you.
Your Vision: The GPS for Your Business
“Your vision is like the destination on a road trip,” I said on the podcast, and yes, I was feeling profound. Whether your endgame is running a six-figure business or simply having evenings free for Netflix binges, your vision determines the systems you need.
Think of it like planning a trip: you wouldn’t start driving without knowing where you’re headed, right? The same goes for your business.
Why Systems Matter for Animal Businesses
Kim and I dove deep into how creating systems for your vision can make or break your business.
Here’s the deal: systems aren’t just boring checklists—they’re your backstage crew, making sure the show runs smoothly. Whether you’re scheduling social media posts, managing client bookings, or sending out invoices, systems save you time, energy, and sanity.
“Start small,” I advised on the show. “You don’t need a 100-step process right out of the gate. A simple system can change your life.”
Finding Systems That Work for You
Here’s the tea: not every system is going to work for every person. On the podcast, we compared systems to travel modes. Some people love the efficiency of flying, while others prefer the scenic route of a road trip. Neither is wrong—it’s about what works for you.
Are you a tech junkie who thrives on apps, or do you need to see your to-do list scribbled on a legal pad? Experimentation is key, and don’t be afraid to let a system go if it’s not serving you.
The Mentorship Piece
Let’s face it—figuring all this out alone can feel like herding cats (or Shetland ponies). That’s where mentorship comes in. With years of experience in photography, marketing, and running my own business, I help animal business owners create custom systems that align with their unique goals.
Prefer hearing and watching? Click here to visit the YouTube episode.
Two Key Takeaways from the Podcast
- Vision First, Systems Second: You can’t build a system if you don’t know what you’re working toward. Dream big, then map out the steps to get there.
- It’s Okay to Outsource: Hate doing something? Find someone or something (hello, automation!) to handle it for you. Freeing up time to focus on what you love makes all the difference.
FAQs: Systems and Vision for Animal Business Owners
Q1: Why are systems so important for my business?
A: Systems save you time and mental energy. They help you focus on growing your business instead of putting out daily fires.
Q2: How do I figure out the right systems for me?
A: Experimentation is key. Start with small, repeatable processes, and don’t be afraid to ditch what doesn’t work.
Q3: How can mentorship help with systems?
A: A mentor can offer personalized advice, helping you avoid common pitfalls and build systems that align with your goals and working style.
Q4: What’s the first step in creating effective systems?
A: Start with your vision. Know where you want to go, and then break it down into manageable steps to get there.
Ready to Work Smarter, Not Harder?
If you’re an animal business owner drowning in the day-to-day grind, let’s talk. My mentorship program is designed to help you clarify your vision, create effective systems, and build a business that works for you.
Want More Tips and Insight? Join the Ride the Sky Herd for behind-the-scenes stories, actionable advice, and exclusive updates. Let’s take your business to the next level—together.
Betsy Bird, Cr. Photog., CPP, of Ride the Sky Equine Photography spends her days doing insane things to make animals look at her. Clearly, she’s desperate for attention. Outside of acting like a total goofball, she invests in growing her business, mentoring photographers, dealing with her teenagers' angst, and hanging with Nitro, the best dog ever. She also tries to spend some time educating and entertaining aspiring photographers by teaching and blogging about whatever catches her fancy at the moment.
Betsy has earned her Photographic Craftsman degree from the Professional Photographers of America (PPA) which honors photographers who contribute to the photographic industry through speaking, mentoring, and publishing. Betsy is also a Certified Professional Photographer (CPP) with PPA. The CPP designation is held by fewer than 2,500 photographers nationwide and is a hallmark of consistency, technical skill, artistry, and professionalism.
Additionally, she serves on the Board of Directors for the Professional Photographers of East Tennessee (PPETN) and the Tennessee Professional Photographers Association (TNPPA). She is also a professional member of the Equine Photographers Network (EPN).
Betsy's award-winning work has been featured in a variety of publications and is found throughout homes and stables in the United States. She is also the co-author of the book, Equine & Equestrian Photography Poses that Sell: The Ultimate Guide to Posing Horses & Humans. She has also been featured on Scenic Trend, the Profitable Photographer Podcast, The Business Animal Podcast, Chatter Magazine, Cowgirls with Cameras Podcast, the Chattanooga Times Free Press, the Chattanoogan, and the Focal Points Podcast to name a few.
Ride the Sky Equine Photography is based in Chattanooga, TN, Ride the Sky Equine Photography works on location in Tennessee, North Georgia, and beyond. With a strong background in entrepreneurship, brand building, goal setting, time management, and business workflows, Betsy is an expert in her field (which isn’t that surprising given how much time she actually spends outstanding in a field...get it?)