158. The Intentional Path to Thrive as an Entrepreneur + BTS of My 2026 Strategic Plan

As we step into 2026, I want to begin this year with a question that feels simple, but changes everything when you really sit with it:

Why are you in business?

Not the surface-level answer. Not the “because I want freedom” or “because I love what I do” version. But the deeper truth. The one that lives in your body, your values, your lived experiences, and your long-term vision.

Because that answer becomes the fuel for everything you build.

This episode is about intentionally creating a pathway to thrive as an entrepreneur, not just survive, not just scale, but build something that actually supports your life.

Thriving Is About Alignment, Not Hustle

It is absolutely possible to build a business that makes money without being aligned. Many people do. And many of them end up burned out, disconnected, or questioning why the success they worked so hard for doesn’t feel fulfilling.

Thriving, on the other hand, means:

• Loving what you’re building
• Feeling supported by your business instead of trapped by it
• Having space for your health, family, creativity, and joy
• Knowing your work is connected to a deeper purpose

When your business is built from alignment, energetic, strategic, and soulful, growth becomes sustainable.

Why You’re in Business Matters More Than You Think

For me, this question connects back to my family, my upbringing, and watching my parents work tirelessly in their businesses. They built financial success, but at the cost of presence, health, and ease.

My intention has always been different.

I want to build a business that creates opportunity and quality of life — for my family and for the entrepreneurs I support. And I know many of you feel the same way.

That deeper “why” is what carries you through uncertainty, pivots, and growth seasons. It’s the anchor when things feel messy or unclear.

Building a Business That Works Without You

One of the biggest shifts entrepreneurs must make to truly thrive is moving out of the “do everything myself” phase.

A business that relies entirely on you isn’t sustainable. It’s a job, even if it’s one you love.

Thriving businesses are built with:

• Clear structure and stages
• Thoughtful planning and systems
• Support, collaboration, and team
• A long-term vision beyond the next launch

This doesn’t happen overnight, but it does happen intentionally.

The Stages of Growth (And Why They Matter)

Every business moves through stages:

• Exploration and clarity
• Building foundations
• Creating consistency
• Expanding with intention

Understanding what stage you’re in changes how you plan, what you focus on, and what support you need. There is no skipping steps, and there’s no failure in being where you are.

An Invitation for 2026

This year isn’t about doing more.
It’s about doing what matters — on purpose.

If you’re ready to step into leadership, build a business that lasts, and create a future that truly supports you, this episode will help you begin that journey with clarity and confidence.

Here’s to a year of aligned growth, intentional leadership, and thriving — together.

Resources:

Purchase my book here!

https://www.amazon.com/dp/1966346050/

Get the Aligned Biz Quiz here!
https://www.spiritualbusinessincubator.com/hd-quiz

Ready to design your business around your Human Design?
Book a 1:1 Human Design for Business Reading:
www.spiritualbusinessincubator.com/hdreading

Learn more about your Human Design with the 64 Gates Library
https://www.spiritualbusinessincubator.com/hdlibrary

Get your personalized Entrepreneur by Design HD Report:
https://www.spiritualbusinessincubator.com/business-report

Interactive Human Design Chart:
https://www.spiritualbusinessincubator.com/hdchart

LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamannanichols

Instagram: @iamannanichols (https://www.instagram.com/iamannanichols)

Design Your Aligned Business PDF Guide:
https://iamannanichols.ck.page/aligned_biz_guide