What Stage of Business Ownership Are You In?
Owning a dance studio is deeply rewarding—but let’s be real: it’s also exhausting at times. Between teaching classes, answering emails, managing staff, and staying on top of tuition and costumes, it’s easy to feel like the whole business is resting on your shoulders.
And here’s the thing most people won’t tell you: the challenges you’re facing aren’t random. They’re signals. Clues pointing to which stage of studio ownership you’re in—and what you need most to move forward.
After coaching studio owners for over five years, I developed the Five Stages of Business Ownership framework to help you get clarity, calm, and confidence—so you can run a studio that supports your life (not the other way around).
Let’s break it down.
Stage 1: Solopreneur
You’re doing it all—teaching, admin, emails, cleaning, and social media. You’ve got passion and drive, but not enough time or energy.
Your focus: Stop the burnout cycle. Get clear on your niche, pricing, and boundaries. Start building support one step at a time.
Stage 2: Co-Worker
You’ve brought on a few helpers, but the lines are blurry. You’re still in the middle of everything, and it feels like things fall apart without you.
Your focus: Define roles. Build systems. Get financial clarity so you can delegate with confidence and pay yourself more consistently.
Stage 3: Team Leader
You have a team and some systems, but you’re still hands-on in too many areas. You’re ready to lead—but things feel chaotic.
Your focus: Step into leadership. Train managers. Document processes so your team can run things smoothly without you being in the middle of every decision.
Stage 4: Director
You’ve got a solid team and clear roles. You’re out of the day-to-day, but now you’re focused on developing others, growing your leadership, and building a sustainable business.
Your focus: Strengthen your leadership. Develop your staff. Cast vision and build a culture that reflects your values.
Stage 5: Visionary
You’re leading from a high level. You’re not involved in the daily operations. You’re focused on strategy, impact, succession planning, and long-term sustainability.
Your focus: Protect your time. Invest in legacy-building. Mentor your leadership team. Expand your influence.
Why Knowing Your Stage Matters
When you understand your stage, you stop trying to do everything at once—and instead focus on the right things for right now. It’s a powerful mindset shift that brings immediate relief and long-term transformation.
Because here’s the truth:
You’re not behind. You’re not failing.
You’re just in a particular stage—and every stage has a next right step.
Want to Know Your Stage?
Take the free quiz I created just for dance studio owners. It takes less than 5 minutes and will show you exactly where you are, what’s holding you back, and how to move forward with more peace and profit.
