#009: How to Handle the Doubters and Build Your Business Anyway

What do you do when the people closest to you don’t believe in your business?

You’ve felt it, right? That sting when someone treats your business like a little hobby or gives you the look—you know the one. It’s frustrating, it’s discouraging, and it makes you wonder if you’re really cut out for this.

I’ve been there.

I remember when I left my steady career to start my own business. People looked at me like I had lost my mind. “How will you make money doing that?” they’d ask, or “Don’t you think it’s safer to stay where you are?” It hurt. I wanted them to see my vision, to believe in what I was building, but all I got was doubt.

That’s why this week’s episode of The Business of Good is so close to my heart. I’m answering a listener question from Sarah, who’s feeling this exact pain. She asked:

"Jan, I feel like the people in my life don’t take my business seriously. My friends and family treat it like a little hobby, and I don’t think they really understand what I’m trying to build. It’s frustrating, and honestly, it makes me second-guess myself. How do I handle this without letting it shake my confidence?"

Oh, Sarah. I’ve been there.

And I know so many of you reading this have been there too.

That’s why this episode is for anyone who’s ever felt unsupported or doubted in their entrepreneurial journey. You’re not alone—and you don’t have to let those opinions hold you back.

Why Their Doubt Isn’t About You

Here’s the first thing I want you to know: when people doubt your business, it’s not really about you—it’s about them.

Most people see success through a very narrow lens: go to school, get a degree, find a “secure” job, and climb the ladder until retirement. That’s the narrative many of us grew up with, so when someone steps outside of that box—especially into something like an online business—it feels foreign to them.

Add to that the fact that most people don’t see the behind-the-scenes work you’re putting in. They don’t see the late nights, the hours spent on strategy, or the heart you pour into your business. They only see the surface—an Instagram post, a casual mention of your work—and make assumptions based on that limited view.

Their doubt isn’t a reflection of your ability or your worth. It’s a reflection of their own fears, insecurities, or lack of understanding.

What You Can Do About It

So, how do you move forward when you feel unsupported?

In this week’s episode, I break down the strategies I’ve used to build confidence, set boundaries, and keep going—even when the people in my life didn’t understand my vision. Here’s a sneak peek:

1. Reframe their doubt. Every time someone questions your business, remind yourself: their doubt is about them, not you. Separate their words from your worth.

2. Set boundaries with love. You don’t owe anyone constant updates or explanations about your business. Protect your energy by sharing your wins with people who uplift you.

3. Find your people. Surround yourself with a supportive community of entrepreneurs who get it. If you don’t have one yet, I’d love to invite you to join The Business of Good Collective.

4. Anchor in your why. When doubt creeps in, reconnect with your purpose. Why did you start this business? Who are you serving? Keep that vision front and center.

The Truth About Doubters

Here’s the thing-every successful entrepreneur has faced doubt, both from others and from themselves. You are not alone in this, and you are not wrong for wanting more.

The people who don’t see your vision? Let them be wrong. You’re not building this business for them. You’re building it for the people you’re meant to serve, for the life you’re creating, and for the impact you know you can make.

The best way to handle the doubters is to keep going. Build something so undeniable that their opinions don’t matter anymore.

Want to Dive Deeper? Listen to the Episode!

If this is hitting home for you, I’d love for you to tune into this week’s episode of The Business of Good. I share my personal experience with doubters, the mindset shifts that helped me move past it, and the actionable strategies you can use to stay focused and confident in your business.

By the end of the episode, you’ll feel empowered to let go of their doubts, build your confidence, and create something amazing—on your terms.

Join the Free Community:

Want to dive deeper into the conversations we’re having here? Join me in The Business of Good Collective, my free community where we share resources, support, and strategies to help you turn your mission into a thriving business. Head over to janditchfield.co/good to join today!