I started my garden maintenance business last December — not the obvious month, but honestly, maybe the perfect one.
Back then, it was just me, a few tools, a notebook, and a head full of questions. So I built a 12-step plan, not because I had it all figured out, but because I needed a path to follow when the mornings were dark and the doubts were loud.
I’m not done — far from it — but as I approach the one-year mark, it feels right to show people what’s possible when you start small, stay steady, and just keep going.
If you’ve been thinking about starting something of your own — whether in a garden, a garage, or a spare room — maybe this will help you take that first tiny December-style step.
It might just be the best time to begin – see video of when it all started…..
A more detailed plan is on the editing floor, so stay tuned and be sure to subscribe to me channel – https://www.youtube.com/@PaulAtTheTidyGarden
GET READY!
1. Get Motivated – Find Your Why
(Steps 2- 12 below)
December is quiet, cold, and perfect for planning. Get crystal clear on why you want this: freedom, fitness, community, income, or peace of mind. Your why will carry you through the frosty mornings – See my ‘WHY VIDEO’ below.
2. Take Action – Claim Your Name
Buy your domain, secure a simple URL, set up a phone number, and tell everyone what you’re building. Saying it out loud makes it real — and referrals often come from the unlikeliest conversations.
3. Get Legit – Build the Ark Before the Rain
Register as a company/sole trader, get insurance sorted, open a business bank account. December is prime admin season — no distractions, no rush.
4. Protect Your Confidence – 5 Minutes of Self-Pity Max
Starting a business is emotional. Allow yourself five minutes a day to feel frustrated, then get back on the tools. Progress beats perfection.
5. Start Small… No, Smaller
Your first few jobs should be tiny: leaf clearing, lawn edges, winter tidy-ups. These build confidence, create social proof, and sharpen your process. Don’t overthink — over-deliver on the basics.
6. Track Everything That Works (and Keep Doing It)
Every flier, post, conversation, route, or tool that helps — write it down. When something hits, double down. December is data-gathering season. (I’ll share my excel template)
7. Count Calls, Quotes, and Actions – Spot Trends
Even if enquiries are slow early on, track them. You’ll learn what messaging works, who your ideal customers are, and which areas convert better. (get a note pad, details matter!)
8. Deliver Some Work — Even If It’s Free or Discounted (expect to lose money)
Get hands-on. Build your portfolio. Before-and-afters. Testimonials. Videos. These become your “January rocket fuel.” December jobs also give you confidence and cash flow.
9. Celebrate Wins — Even the Tiny Ones
A call? Celebrate. First quote? Celebrate. First paid job? Celebrate big. Momentum is built through recognising each step forward – see my videos where I do exactly this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BvxvIKzxUQU
See my Facebook page for weekly, detailed progress wins: THE TIDY GARDED FACEBOOK PAGE –
10. Document, Learn, Tweak, Repeat
Take notes. What went well? What was slow? What tool failed? What tool saved you? Documenting now means scaling smoothly later.
11. Enjoy Some Rewards
A small treat after a good week is fuel for the soul. Steak dinner, new gloves, or that tool upgrade you’ve been eyeing. Reward creates motivation loops.
12. Share the Success – Show Others What Works
Post your before/after photos, talk about the journey, inspire others, and build community goodwill. Generosity builds brand trust — and referrals.
Maybe start right now, by recording a video of yourself like I did.
The first step is ‘The Why’ – Scary story!
Launch your ‘How to Video’ – It’s time to give something back!
PAUL
07752 640 510 🌿
Paul@TheTidyGarden.com
www.thetidygarden.com
