Let’s talk about fear.
When I started my first business at 22, I wasn’t afraid – because I didn’t know enough to be. I had no mortgage, no kids, and very little to lose. I simply jumped in.
But a month later? The fear kicked in.
I realised I’d bitten off more than I could chew. I had no clue what I was doing – but I did know how to work. So, I worked. I turned fear into fuel, and that fear became a hunger for knowledge. I didn’t have a safety net, but I had drive. And sometimes, that’s enough.
Fast-forward to now, with multiple businesses built, sold, and scaled – I see fear differently. These days, it’s more calculated. I know what levers to pull. That’s the difference experience makes.
If you’re not a little scared when launching a franchise, I’m not sure you care enough. The key is to use the fear. Harness it. Turn it into action.
Break it into manageable actions
Action takes over, drives the force. And, in its simplest form, business is nothing but a sequence of actions.
In fact, with our new franchisees, we break down every step from signing a franchise agreement to earning your first pound. We counted over 120 individual actions. Once you map it out, it’s just a process. That clarity takes the edge off.
Plan like you’re selling tomorrow
At Walfinch, I tell franchisees on Day 1: start planning your exit. Even if it’s 10 years away, run your business like you’re selling it tomorrow. That means clean finances, strong systems, and tight operations. Not just for the sake of a sale, but because it keeps you disciplined. And discipline builds value.
Do the research
Endless research isn’t necessary – in fact, it can stall you. But do just enough to know what you’re buying, who you’re partnering with, and how the system works.
If you are personally assured you’re investing in the right place, you can help yourself rationalise those doubts and anxiety.
Know your financial situation
Be well funded. The franchise fee is just the beginning. It helps to add a buffer; ideally, 12-18 months of personal expenses covered. That financial runway removes a huge chunk of stress.
It may help to split the risk, if you can. When I started again after selling a business, my wife kept working while I launched. It gave us stability while I took the leap. Not everyone has that, but it’s worth thinking about: can one partner bring in income while the other builds?
In the end, It’s about doing the work
Business is action. One step after another. Fear won’t vanish, but when you focus on what you can control – progress happens. Fast.
That’s the real secret. You don’t need to be fearless. You just need to keep going.
