What Makes a Business Thrive? It’s All in the Layers
Running a great business is like crafting the perfect lasagna – each and every layer matters. They play a role, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all.
Take my lasagna recipe, for instance. Over the years, I’ve tweaked it, swapping regular ground pork for spicy Italian sausage. I never liked sausage meat until recently, but now, that small change has completely transformed the dish. The same is true for your business. It’s about finding the right People, Tools, and Systems that work for you – even if it means a shift in perspective.
Like my lasagna recipe, your business needs a strong framework and layers that align to create a satisfying and sustainable result to hold it all together. Think of it as the “pan” that nurtures and protects your intentions and future plans while allowing you to layer in what makes your business unique and sustainable.
To truly thrive, you need layers that align and complement each other. I call it the Circle of Strength. It’s a recipe for success that combines People, Tools, and Systems to create a foundation that supports your growth and sustainability.
My goal is for you to enjoy and savour your business because it’s what you love to do and do best!
Recipe for Success in Your Business: Your Circle of Strength
1. People – Build strong, values-driven relationships to open opportunities and growth with more ease and grace.
~ For example: Think of your dream client or a referral partner who shares your values – what steps are you taking to nurture that connection?
2. Tools – Utilize resources to amplify and streamline your efforts to save you time, money, and energy.
~ For example: Imagine a tool that reminds you to follow up with clients or partners at the right time – how are you using tools to streamline and enhance these interactions?
3. Systems – Intentional processes streamline workflow, navigate challenges better, and ensure consistency.
~ For example: Picture a process that ensures every client experience is consistent and memorable – what systems do you have in place to make that happen?
Gain Clarity, Flow, and Freedom to Thrive
When these elements are layered thoughtfully, they create clarity, ease, and confidence… your recipe for success, with less conflict, more clients, and harmony too. And if something hasn’t worked in the past, it’s often because it wasn’t the right fit for you. Your Circle of Strength is unique, and refining it is the key to unlocking your alignment and growth.
Each layer of your Circle of Strength works together, just like the lasagna’s noodles, sauce, and cheese, to create something incredible. When it’s well-balanced, you and your business gain the clarity, flow, and freedom to thrive.
Layered Baked Lasagna
Ingredients:
Meat Sauce:
- 1 ½ lbs ground beef
- ½ lb spicy hot Italian sausage (casing removed)
- 1 cup chopped Spanish onion
- 1 clove garlic, crushed
- 1 can (12 oz) tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
- 1 ½ tbsp parsley flakes
- 1 ½ tbsp sugar
- ½ tsp salt
- ¾ tsp pepper
- 2 tsp crushed basil leaves
Cheese Mixture:
- 1 large container (2 lbs) large-curd cottage cheese
- ½ cup parmesan cheese
- 1 tbsp parsley flakes
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp pepper
- 1 tsp crushed oregano leaves
Other Layers:
- 8 oz lasagna noodles (cooked and drained)
- ¾ lb mozzarella cheese (shredded, reserve ⅓ cup for the top)
- ½ cup parmesan cheese (for top)
Instructions:
- Cook beef, sausage, onion, and garlic in a large soup pot until meat is cooked and onion is tender. Drain fat.
- Add tomatoes, breaking them up with a fork, then add tomato sauce and spices for the meat sauce.
- Simmer uncovered for at least 1 hour or until thick. Make 24 hours ahead for better flavour blending.
- Heat oven to 350°F. Mix cottage cheese, ½ cup parmesan cheese, and spices from the cheese mixture layer.
- In a lasagna pan, layer:
~ A little sauce at the bottom
~ Half the noodles
~ Half the sauce
~ Half the mozzarella
~ Half the cottage cheese mixture
~ Repeat, saving a little sauce for the top. - Top with ½ cup parmesan cheese and reserved mozzarella.
- Bake uncovered for 55–60 minutes or until bubbly in the center. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.
Find What Works For You
Running a business isn’t about doing everything “by the book.” It’s about finding what works for you. Be intentional about trying new tools, refining processes, or building relationships that align with your values and vision. Like lasagna, a thriving business is built layer by layer, with a strong foundation (your framework) holding it all together. These cycles of repeatable steps provide the stability to grow and adapt.
When each component – people, tools, and systems – works together, the result is greater than the sum of its parts. Your Circle of Strength creates a business that’s not just sustainable but truly satisfying, with clarity, alignment, and room for growth.
Remember… what didn’t work before might simply need a fresh perspective or a small tweak. The key is to keep layering your Circle of Strength with intention and alignment.
Take a moment to reflect: What’s one layer of your business you’d like to refine this week? Share your thoughts or take the first step toward feeling more aligned today!
You can create a balance that’s right for you… one intentional step at a time. That’s my wish for you in 2025.
