Running a small online business isn’t for the faint-hearted—especially in places like Chestermere, Alberta, where local shops are shutting down and foot traffic isn’t what it used to be. If you’re feeling the pinch, like many business owners here, I want to let you in on something I’ve learned the hard way:
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It’s not just what you sell online that keeps you in the game—it’s how you show up every day.
Here are 10 powerful habits I’ve embraced (and recommend for every online entrepreneur) to stay relevant, consistent, and ahead in the fast-changing digital space.
1. Show Up Every Day (Even When You Don’t Feel Like It)
In Chestermere, I see talented people give up before their ideas even take off. The habit of showing up daily—even when no one’s watching—is what separates those who make it online from those who don’t. Your consistency builds trust, even when you’re still under the radar.
2. Master the Art of Listening
Online success isn’t about guessing what people want—it’s about hearing what they need. Join Facebook groups, listen to conversations in your community, and read the comments. You’ll discover pain points your business can solve.
3. Simplify Instead of Overloading
I used to think more tools, more offers, more emails would equal more success. Not true. Simplify. Focus on one audience, one message, and one offer at a time. Especially if you’re new to the digital game.
4. Track, Learn, Adjust
If your business is transitioning from Chestermere’s Main Street to the internet, know this: What works offline might not work online. You need to check analytics weekly. What links are people clicking? What emails are getting opened? Follow the data and tweak fast.
5. Make Relationship-Building a Daily Habit
People buy from those they trust. Spare 10 minutes a day to respond to comments, check in with past customers, or leave thoughtful replies in online communities. Don’t underestimate how much this builds loyalty.
6. Stay Curious About AI & Automation
Technology isn’t the enemy—it’s the shortcut. Learn to use simple AI tools that help with content, customer service, or emails. The small businesses here in Chestermere that will survive are the ones willing to embrace smarter, faster ways of working.
7. Plan Tomorrow, Today
Before shutting down for the night, I list my top 3 tasks for tomorrow. It’s how I avoid waking up overwhelmed and wasting the day reacting instead of creating.
8. Focus on One Main Metric
Pick one number to obsess over for 30 days—email sign-ups, conversions, or even Instagram DM replies. Everything else is noise.
9. Share Your Story Where People Are Listening
You don’t need to make videos or go viral on TikTok to be visible. But you do need to get your story in front of people. I started posting real lessons and behind-the-scenes struggles on this blog, local online forums, and my newsletter. Your story connects more than your sales pitch ever will.
10. Embrace Discomfort, Daily
This one’s personal. I made a list of 30 uncomfortable things—like emailing someone I admire, going to a local networking event, or asking for a testimonial—and committed to one each day. Growth doesn’t happen in your comfort zone, especially when you’re reinventing yourself from a local business owner to an online entrepreneur.
If you’re in Chestermere and watching the local economy shift beneath your feet, now’s the time to act. The online space is wide open—and these habits are your on-ramp to a better future.
Let me know which of these you’ll try first in the comments. If you’re curious how I got started online or want help choosing the right path, I’d love to share what worked for me.
Stay committed. Stay uncomfortable. And most of all—stay in the game.
—Andrew
If you’re thinking of transitioning your Chestermere-based business online or want a flexible, income-generating side hustle, check out The Ambassador Program—a powerful way to start earning from digital products without creating your own. I’m part of it, and it’s been a game-changer.
5 Comments
SunnyDaze
This article is so inspiring! I love the idea of showing up every day, even when it’s tough. Thanks for sharing!
CocoPuff21
Wow! I never thought about simplifying my business approach. This really gives me hope to keep going!
GamerNerd92
I totally agree with listening to your audience. It makes a big difference! Great tips, Andrew!
JellyBean55
I’m excited to try tracking my metrics more closely. This post is super helpful, thank you!
StarryEyes
Building relationships sounds like a fun challenge! I can’t wait to start implementing these habits!