297: How to know when to give up and when to stick it out

How to Know When to Stick It Out in Business—And When to Move On

Have you ever found yourself asking, “Should I double down on this business idea, or is it time to let go?” If so, you’re not alone. In Episode 297 of the Her Empire Builder Show, host Tina Tower dives deep into this conundrum: knowing when to persevere through tough times, and when to pivot or walk away.

Let’s break down Tina’s actionable insights so you can find clarity in your own business journey.

The Struggle Is Normal—But Where Is It Leading?

First, it’s key to understand that all success stories start with some difficulty. Tina reminds us that everyone faces hurdles, especially when starting something new. And while the shiny highlight reels on social media can make it look easy for others, the truth is: struggle is part of the process. The crucial thing is to ask if your current struggles are “growing pains” that will lead to growth, or “dead ends” that signal it’s time for change.

Effort vs. Evidence

Working hard is admirable, but Tina encourages us to measure evidence of progress rather than just effort. Have you really given your project a strategic, six-month push—connecting, marketing, asking for feedback? If after this period there are signs of life (leads, engagement, conversions, even slow growth), don’t give up. But if you see only flatlines, it's probably time to consider a new direction.

Tina shares from her own experience: even after years of success, not every new offer soars. The ones that don’t become valuable feedback for future decisions.

Stay Committed to Your Mission, Not Just Your Offer

It’s easy to become attached to a specific offer, but Tina advises against it. Be in love with your overall mission—the problem you want to solve and the audience you want to serve. How you serve them (your offers, products, or services) can—and should—evolve over time based on real feedback. Keep your mission close, and hold your method loosely.

Energy Check: Drain or Expansion?

Consider whether your current work is a source of energy or an energy drain. If you feel inspired, even when things are hard, that’s a green flag. If you dread the work and feel emotionally or spiritually tapped out, that’s a big red flag that you might need to pivot.

Ask Better Questions

Instead of “Should I quit?”—try asking:

• What would need to happen to make this work?

• Have I truly gone all in, or am I protecting myself from potential failure?

• If I started over today, would I do anything differently?

• If I didn’t have to do this, would I want to?

Being honest with yourself about these questions can bring powerful clarity.

Pivot Without Shame

Changing direction doesn’t make you flaky—it makes you adaptive! Entrepreneurs pivot all the time. Tina shares her own story of moving from franchise owner to online course creator. Every “shift” built on the foundation she’d already created, making her more resilient, not less.

Signs to Stick It Out

Stick with an idea if:

• You see clear traction, even if the results aren’t ideal yet

• The future excites you, even if the present feels tough

• You’re laying solid foundations and are committed to consistent action

Signs It’s Time to Let Go

Consider letting go if:

• The work drains you more than it excites you

• You’re misaligned with your original mission

• You’ve truly gone all-in, yet results still aren’t coming

• You’re holding on out of fear or sunk costs

Whether you choose to stick it out or pivot, you win—because both persistence and discernment are essential skills for an entrepreneur. Trust your intuition, validate it with real evidence, and know that your best moves build on the lessons of both success and setbacks.

If you love your mission and want smart strategy to bring it to life, Tina’s Her Empire Builder membership could be the resource and community you need.

You’re never truly starting from scratch—you’re always building on everything you’ve learned.