So You Want to Scale Your Business?

[Ashley Wilson]

Scaling a business sounds like the ultimate goal, right? You start small, build momentum, and then explode into a bigger, more powerful version of what you once were. But here’s the truth: scaling isn’t for everyone. In fact, for some, it can be the worst decision they ever make.

I often get asked to speak on scaling, as I have scaled multiple businesses over the years by six and seven figures. While that sounds sexy, one of my favorite business quotes is by Thomas Merton, who said, "People may spend their whole lives climbing the ladder of success only to find, once they reach the top, that the ladder is leaning against the wrong wall."

Too often, I see entrepreneurs chasing growth without truly understanding what it means. They believe that bigger equals better, that more revenue, more deals, or more employees automatically lead to success. But scaling comes with challenges that can break even the most passionate business owners. Before you jump into the deep end, let’s take a hard look at the pros and cons of scaling.

The Pros of Scaling

1. Increased Revenue Potential When you scale successfully, you can significantly increase your revenue. With more properties, bigger deals, or an expanded portfolio, you’re no longer limited by your original constraints. More volume typically means more income—if done correctly.
2. Greater Market Influence A larger business often carries more credibility. Whether you’re negotiating with lenders, working with investors, or attracting new opportunities, having a larger presence gives you an edge. Your name alone can open doors that were once closed.
3. Stronger Systems & Efficiencies Scaling forces you to implement better processes and systems. The makeshift strategies that worked when you were small won’t cut it at a larger scale. This necessity often leads to better efficiency, higher productivity, and stronger teams.

The Cons of Scaling

1. Increased Operational Complexity More business means more moving parts. Managing a handful of jobs is one thing—managing a massive portfolio is an entirely different beast. HR, legal, operations, finance—everything multiplies, and without the right infrastructure, it can become overwhelming fast.
2. Higher Financial Risk Growth isn’t free. Scaling often requires heavy capital investment, whether it’s hiring more staff, acquiring more assets, or building out infrastructure. Additionally, your increased market influence can put a bullseye on your business opening up greater liability risk. Many businesses scale too fast and collapse under financial pressure.
3. Loss of Personal Freedom If you think running a small business is time-consuming, try managing a scaled one. More employees, more clients, more responsibilities—it all demands more of you, especially as the business is in growth mode. Many entrepreneurs think scaling will give them freedom, only to realize they’re more tied to their business than ever before.

So, Should You Scale?

Scaling isn’t inherently good or bad—it’s about alignment. Do you want the added responsibilities that come with growth? Are you prepared for the risks? Do you have the right systems in place to support expansion?

Some entrepreneurs thrive in the chaos of rapid growth, while others find more success and fulfillment in staying lean and profitable. The key is knowing what success looks like for you. Don’t scale just because it’s what everyone else is doing—scale because it truly aligns with your vision and long-term goals.

At the end of the day, bigger isn’t always better. Better is better.