2025 is the year of business. That’s what many of us declared at the beginning of the year—and truthfully, for those yet to begin the journey, the dream is still alive and valid. I believe that wholeheartedly.
So, before you start the business you’ve been dreaming about, here are seven insights from Esther Maina that can help you develop a solid business plan. These lessons will guide you to stand out in today’s ever-changing and competitive market.
Esther, a respected and successful rice importer from Kenya, confirms that having business insight, even in form of just advice, is essential before starting. It builds a strong foundation for wise decision-making, reduces risks, and increases your chances of success.
“Business insights or advice give you a roadmap to navigate any fast-paced, high-stakes environment, to be successful,” Esther says.
Here are seven business mistakes to avoid and how to succeed in 2025 in business, according to her:
1. Be unique
You shouldn’t do what everyone else is doing. Don’t do it because other people do it well. You have to do it because you love it. That first, and then, you must always be different. You have to innovate. You have to bring innovation. Don’t do your business to make money. Do it for love first. If you love what you do, the money will come by itself. The market is never saturated; everyone has their own customers, and everyone has their own way of doing business.
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2. Trust wisely
It’s your business—own it. Don’t hand over the reins too easily. Don’t trust anyone to grow your business. “Be the driving force behind your business,” Esther insists. Being hands-on helps you grow as a leader, not just a boss. Delegate wisely, but never detach yourself from the engine room of your enterprise.
3. Boss down
Put your employees in the position of boss. Don’t show them you’re their superior; they already know that. I mean, don’t mistreat them, don’t tire them out, let them work at their own pace by establishing a system in your business that allows them to earn money every day outside of their salary. This way, they’ll take care of your business.
4. No pain no gain
Yes, you’re your own boss, but you can still fail. That’s true. You work for yourself, but you don’t have the right to rest. You must arrive before your team and leave after them. It’s your business. You’re not a government worker. Rest comes when your business can stand on its own and generate income regularly. That’s when you’ll sleep peacefully because you’ve built working systems that keep going even when you rest.
5. Reinvest
When you open your business and it starts generating money, don’t say, “It’s my money, I’m going to eat it.” No, no, pay your employees and manage expenses first. If there are any retained earnings, put them in the bank or reinvest them in the business.
In fact, you shouldn’t pay yourself until your business has grown to the point you desire. Be patient. Focus on putting your employees at ease and reinvesting in the business the very money you’re tempted to spend. That’s how we do business.
6. Bye home baby
Leave your family, go elsewhere, leave the family home to start a business if you want to grow, or start a business without them knowing. Don’t neglect this. This is very important advice. It’s inexplicable and good for your business. Successful entrepreneurs can confirm this.
Some people might say, “But with your family, you don’t pay for a house.” Well, Google, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Dell, Mattel, and Walt Disney all started out in garages and college rooms. Sometimes, stepping out helps you step up.
7. Limit the fun
This one’s real talk: Esther advises entrepreneurs to limit distractions. Reduce alcohol, reduce casual relationships, and stay grounded. “Choose one partner, surround yourself with people smarter than you, pray a lot, and work hard.” The path to success is built with sacrifice, focus, and faith.
In all things, let’s remember—commit your plans to the Lord, and He will establish your steps (Proverbs 16:3). May your business journey in 2025 be fruitful, intentional, and full of favour.
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