Starting a business is one of the most exciting decisions you can make but it can also feel like standing at the bottom of a mountain, looking up. There are a million things to do, and everyone has an opinion on where to start.

If I had to go back and build a small business from scratch today, these are the ten moves I’d make immediately. They’re not flashy or complicated, but they’re the foundation that separates businesses that stay stuck from those that actually grow.

The 2025 holiday season is shorter and more competitive than ever, with just 26 shopping days between Black Friday and Christmas. This cheat sheet gives small businesses the edge—covering SEO, website refreshes, email campaigns, and social media tactics that boost sales and retention. Learn how to stand out against big-box retailers, connect authentically with customers, and turn seasonal buyers into loyal year-round fans.