How to go the extra mile as a solopreneur

Going the extra mile is crucial for success.  It’s often one of the key differentiating things.  Read on to how it can support you for the better.

In my article, I’ll highlight solopreneur examples.  Being one myself, I see life as such, daily.  However, the ideas can benefit anyone if applied to their specific circumstances.

Solopreneurship is intriguing

Choosing to work on your terms, isn’t an easy decision.  It requires careful consideration and evaluation.  I moved away from the corporate world 12 years ago (updated) and never looked back.

Everyone’s story is different.  The reasons you choose to go solo are unique to your life.  The nature of the activity that you prefer can also be different from others.

It’s intriguing at first when you venture out.  You may have family and friends wondering what you’re up to.  You might ask yourself what comes next.

Self-starters go the extra mile

Taking initiative is the first and a major step.  If you have a dream, it’s a dream.  When you have a solid action plan, you’re more likely to make things happen.

There will be times when you’re wearing many hats.  You take up all the roles yourself.  Later, you might hire a team, even freelancers.  Read about the 6 thinking hats theory in my other post 

Working on your terms, you’re in control of what you want to do.  If you’re too lenient on yourself, you let go.  If you’re too tense, you need to chill. 

Strategy in the right direction

Set your goals carefully.  They guide your actions.  Ensure that they’re in line with your longer-term strategy.

Focus on the right activities, as time is precious.  It may seem trivial to say so.  However, you could waste time and other resources if your goals are not set properly.

When it comes to going the extra mile, do so in the right direction.  Having set the right goals, persist.  Read my other post on the importance of persevering for more.

Ongoing self-improvement for progress

The enthusiasm and passion to always learn are great.  Ongoing and lifelong learning supports you.  You always prefer to hone your skills.

Being open to learning brings new opportunities.  Those who refuse to grow personally, become stagnant.  When you’re willing to go the extra mile, you relish the benefits of challenges.

Adopt a can-do attitude 

Have a mindset conducive to success.  This is a simple idea that can make a significant difference.  Be determined and hungry for results.

Embrace solving hard challenges.  When others back out, keep going.  Be sure that your goals are still relevant and don’t give up.

Time management for productivity

Stay organized for better success.  Adopt the right habits, making them a natural part of your day.  Being a solopreneur, you rely on yourself for accountability.

I’ve had my home office for 10 years (time of writing).  I’ve seen how important a dedicated workspace is.  Through my blog, I share tips for working smarter.

The Pomodoro technique is a great one.  I’ve seen the benefits, as it supports me in getting more done in less time.  Read my other article, if you want to find out more about Pomodoro. 

Stop procrastinating and move on

Procrastination happens sometimes.  It can also happen to anyone.  For solopreneurs, self-discipline is even more important.  There’s no one to coerce you, as you’re the boss!

Rest and self-care are primordial. They also support productivity. There are ways to avoid procrastination, which you can find in my other post.

Serve your clients 

How to go the extra mile in customer service?  Exceed their expectations.  Deliver more than you promise.  

Your clients are the center of your activities.  Although you carry out many tasks, you should treat clients as a priority.  Administrative and other matters can wait in case a client contacts you urgently.

Have a reliable customer service system in place.  When you’re on your own, it might be a challenge to stay on top of things.  Ensure that you can keep up with any complaints, and handle them promptly.  Welcome constructive feedback.

Hiring a VA could be helpful if you have the budget to do so.  Use automation for tasks, when possible.  There will be things that you need to tackle personally.

Grow your network

Meet the right people and get to know them.  You can collaborate with those who complement your brand.  Team up with the right people, and mutually benefit.

Always prefer genuineness.  Inauthenticity shows sooner or later.  People like connecting with real people.  Aim for long-term relationships that bring results.

The majority of my fellow bloggers are virtual connections.  I find it convenient to network online.  Meeting face-to-face is conducive to starting meaningful projects.  

Whenever you can reply personally, it is a good chance.  Show your face and presence.  It’s your personal brand, after all.

Dive deep into your niche

Walk the extra mile without being asked to.  Be creative in solving problems that your ideal clients face.  Offer unique solutions and your unique selling proposition (USP).

Go out of the ordinary and carefully study your niche.  What do your clients and leads need that’s lacking?  See what they’re not getting, and work on it.

Keep an eye on your competition

If you go the extra mile, you could leave your competitors behind.  You have to monitor their steps through competitor analysis.  Always aim to be ahead of the competition.  

For solopreneurs, competitor analysis could be overwhelming.  Use tools if possible.  For example, SEO tools can provide reports for competitor tracking.

Innovate often and wholeheartedly 

Innovation is a great means to offer better products and services.  See what’s needed, and be one step ahead.  Know your client’s needs well.

Use surveys to collect first-hand info.  Your email list is a great place to start.  Use tags and segmentation for specific types of subscribers.

Offer the right things to the right leads.  If someone opted in through a certain type of lead magnet, chances are they would need a relevant paid product.

Value work-life balance

It cannot be overstated that everyone needs to have a life outside of work.  When it comes to solopreneurs working from home, it’s the same.  Maybe even more, if you tend to stay at your desk for longer hours.

I ensure that I take regular breaks.  Coming back to my desk, I feel more energized.  I also stay hydrated by drinking enough water.

I aim to work only 4 to 5 hours daily.  Treating myself to a 4 workday week is interesting.  I take the time to live in the moment.

Decide on the time you aim to spend working.  It depends on the priorities you set for yourself.  Optimize your task completion by working smarter through better processes.  

Conclusion

Going the extra mile supports your success.  While others give up, push yourself to your very best level.  Excel and make a significant difference.

Editor’s Note: This blog article was last updated on 21 October 2025 for better accuracy and comprehensiveness.