Why Embracing Flexibility Has Made Me a Better Business Owner

The Illusion of Control

In the early days of running Prescott Maid to Order, I believed that if I planned well enough, I could prevent every problem. I thought if I just checked every box, nothing would go wrong. But the reality of running a business quickly taught me otherwise. Employees get sick. Clients cancel. Supplies get delayed. Weather interrupts schedules. Life happens.

I realized that while structure gives me direction, it doesn’t guarantee perfection. Trying to control every outcome only left me frustrated when things inevitably shifted. That’s when I started practicing flexibility, not as a sign of weakness, but as a strategy for resilience.

Adapting Without Losing Focus

Flexibility doesn’t mean throwing the plan out the window. It means adjusting the plan without losing sight of the bigger goal. When things change last minute, I’ve learned to ask myself: What’s the next best move with what I have right now? This mindset keeps me solution-focused instead of stuck in disappointment.

For example, if a client cancels a big appointment, I don’t let it ruin the day. I look for other ways to make good use of the team’s time, whether it’s tackling deep-cleaning projects, updating training materials, or handling administrative tasks we’ve been putting off. This shift keeps momentum going and helps us stay productive, even when things don’t go as planned.

Leading with Grace Under Pressure

Embracing flexibility has also helped me become a calmer, more supportive leader. My team looks to me not just for direction, but for how to respond when things get stressful. By modeling flexibility, I show them that it’s okay to adapt and that every challenge is an opportunity to learn and improve.

When I lead with grace instead of frustration, it creates a healthier work environment. My team feels empowered to bring solutions instead of fearfully waiting for me to fix everything. It’s a reminder that we’re all in this together – and that teamwork thrives when everyone feels safe to adjust and collaborate.

Flexibility as a Growth Strategy

Some of the best ideas in my business have come from being willing to pivot. When certain services weren’t working well, I wasn’t afraid to change them. When customers’ needs shifted, I listened and adjusted our offerings. This openness to change has helped us stay relevant, meet client needs more effectively, and grow sustainably over time.

The Balance That Builds Success

In the end, I’ve learned that success isn’t about choosing between structure and flexibility; it’s about mastering both. I still make lists, plan ahead, and stay organized, but I hold those plans with an open hand. When the unexpected happens, I choose to adapt, find the opportunity, and keep moving forward.

Embracing flexibility has allowed me to face challenges with confidence, lead with calm, and build a business that isn’t just organized, but resilient. And in today’s ever-changing world, that might just be one of the most important tools for success. QCBN

By Lucy Leyva

Lucy Leyva is the owner of Prescott Maid to Order.