3 Tangible Steps to Move From Teaching Dream to Thriving Business
Posted on February 17th, 2025 by Makenzie Oliver
Welcome, teacher friend! If you’ve been dreaming of having your own school, micro-school, preschool, or tutoring business, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re still reporting to a classroom each day or you’ve already jumped into building your dream, there will be moments when you feel stuck and wonder, “What do I do next?”
I’ve walked this road myself—sometimes alone, sometimes hand-in-hand with others—and I know it can be messy. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to do it alone. In today’s post, I’m sharing three actionable steps to get you unstuck, into momentum, and onto the path where your teacher dream becomes a reality.
Step 1: The 3-Column Chart (Brainstorm, Research, Clarify)
The first thing I recommend is a simple yet powerful exercise—creating a three-column char Think of it like a “KWL” chart for your dream business.
1. Column A: Brainstorm (Your Ideas & Vision)
Jot down everything you want in your future school or tutoring business. Include your income goals, the schedule you desire, and the teaching methods that light you up.
Don’t hold back or censor yourself—dream big!
2. Column B: Research (Your Questions & Unknowns)
Write out every question swirling in your mind.
Common examples: “How do I handle taxes?”, “Do I need special insurance?”, “Which legal structure should I choose?”, “How do I enroll my first students
This column is your permission slip to capture all the what-ifs and unknowns that might otherwise overwhelm you.
3. Column C: Clarity (Your Answers & Next Steps)
As you start finding information—through Googling, calling local agencies, asking Facebook groups—record your answers in Column C.
Over time, you’ll see your vision become more concrete. The clarity gained here fuels your confidence to keep goin
The beauty of this chart is that it’s ongoing. Maybe it starts as one page in your notebook and expands into multiple pages or a Google Doc over time. Let it be messy! The goal is to get everything out of your head and into a structured place so you can move forward.
Step 2: Get Tangible (Invest in Action)
You can brainstorm ideas all day, but without tangible steps, you’ll remain in “dream mode.” This is where action comes in—and yes, it often involves putting a little money behind your vision to signal your commitment. Here are some ideas:
Create Your Foundational Documents
Whether you’re starting a micro-school, preschool, or tutoring program, having professional, organized documents is key.
Think about an introductory packet, enrollment forms, brochures, handbooks, and a contract. These materials anchor your ideas into something real you can share with prospective families.
Open a Business Bank Account or Form an LLC
Taking these steps says, “I’m serious about this business.” It also helps separate your personal finances from your business finances—a smart move for any entrepreneur.
Launch Your Online Presence
Consider creating a simple Facebook page or website where you can share updates. If you’re not ready for a website yet, start with a social media business page to gauge interest and build an audience.
Remember: money talks. When you invest in resources or services—like a ready-to-edit business bundle or a professional design for your marketing materials—you’re far mor likely to commit to building momentum. Action begets action. Even small, tangible steps can spark huge leaps forward.
Step 3: Set Milestones & Work Backwards
Once you’ve started laying a foundation, it’s time to map out your timeline. Otherwise, it’s easy to get lost in a sea of to-dos.
1. Pick a “D-Day”(Your Done Day)
Choose the date by which you want to be running your new business or leaving your current position.
This might be the end of the school year or a specific month next year.
2. Work Backwards with Monthly (or Weekly) Targets
If your “D-Day” is in June, for example, what do you need to be done by May… by April… by March… and so on?
Break these bigger targets into smaller tasks. Maybe in October, your goal is to complete your introductory packet. In November, you finalize your enrollment forms and set up your LLC. By December, you create a marketing plan or schedule open houses.
3. Plug into Support & Expertise
Are you worried about taxes or retirement? Schedule time with a financial advisor Want a seasoned mentor? Join a coaching or mastermind group.
Searching for others on the same path? Join Facebook groups like Start Your Micro School or Homeschooling Business to share ideas and stay encouraged.
This milestone-driven approach keeps you focused and builds confidence with each box you tick off. The clearer your plan, the more unstoppable you become!
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
Adopting Someone Else’s Model Entirely
There’s nothing wrong with being inspired by others, but be cautious about programs requiring you to follow a strict template that doesn’t align with your unique vision. Remember, your gifts and skills make your school or tutoring program special.
Analysis Paralysis
Research is essential, but you don’t want to be stuck in an endless cycle of Googling. Use your three-column chart to capture data, and then move forward with what you have. It’s okay to learn as you go!
Neglecting Your “Why”
Starting a teacher-owned business can be challenging. You’ll inevitably face moments of self-doubt. Keep the bigger picture—your dreams, your freedom, your desire to serve families—front and center to stay motivated.
You’ve Got This, Teacher Friend
If you feel a little overwhelmed, that’s normal—it means you’re dreaming big! brainstorming, taking tangible action, and setting clear milestones, you’ll gather the momentum you need to cross that bridge from “I wish I could do this” to“I am doing this!”
Remember:
You’re not alone in your journey.
The struggle is part of the process, but it’s also proof you’re making progress. Every step—big or small—propels you forward.
Keep Shining Your Teacher Light
If you need more resources or personalized support, I invite you to:
1. Join our Facebook Group: “Start Your Micro-School or Homeschooling Business” – It’s a community of like-minded teacher entrepreneurs ready to share ideas, wins, and words of encouragement.
2. Check Out the Business Bundle: If you’re ready to invest in a toolkit that covers your introductory packet, brochures, enrollment forms, and more, this resource can fast-track your momentum.
3. Reach Out: Have questions? Email me or drop a post in the Facebook group. Let’s keep the conversation going.
Final Encouragement
You already have the teaching gift—now it’s time to channel it into a fulfilling and profitable endeavor that lights up your life and the lives of the students you serve. As you step out in faith, remember that every challenge you face is shaping you into the confident teacher entrepreneur you’re meant to b
Thank you for reading, and until next time, keep letting your teacher’s light shine. The world needs the unique vision that only you can bring!
P.S. The easiest way to support this journey and help more teachers find this message is to share this blog with a teacher friend and join our growing community.