The Real Cost of Building an Online Business

When people think about starting an online business, they often picture quick wins, viral success, or a low-cost entry into entrepreneurship. What most don’t realize is that building a sustainable business requires real investment—of money, time, and personal growth.

In this post, I’m pulling back the curtain on my own journey. From my very first freelance writing bundle in 2018 to coaching programs, conferences, internships, and even investing in my mental health, I’ve learned that everything costs something. Sometimes it’s your bank account, sometimes it’s your calendar, and sometimes it’s both.

My First Investment: Freelance Writing

In 2018, after blogging for a few years, I decided to turn my writing into a business. My first big investment was a freelance writing bundle that included a book, PDFs, templates, and even sample content. That bundle taught me how to pitch, how to structure articles, and where to find credible sources. It was invaluable—proof that the right investment can completely shift your path.

Investing in My Craft

When the pandemic hit, I paused client work but didn’t stop writing. Instead, I invested time into virtual writing webinars and conferences. Listening to other writers, learning about traditional vs. self-publishing, and sharpening my skills eventually led to self-publishing my own poetry book in 2022.

Launching My Podcast

Starting a podcast was another time-heavy investment. I didn’t hire a coach—I pieced everything together through Google searches and trial and error. Looking back, I wish I had invested in a podcast coach to save myself some stress, but I learned a lot in the process.

Networking events also became a key part of this stage. They cost both time and vendor fees, but they gave me the chance to share my story, sell my books and journals, and connect with others in the business community.

Coaching, Internships, and Conferences

In 2023, I joined my first group coaching program—an investment of over $4,000. Not everything applied to my stage of business, but it stretched me and gave me tools I could use later.

That same year, I joined two internships where I worked directly with seasoned podcasters and business coaches. I learned how to create show notes, repurpose podcast episodes into blog posts, and see the moving parts of a large online business. These experiences were priceless.

Conferences also became one of my favorite ways to invest. They are inspiring, motivating, and packed with networking opportunities—even if they leave me completely exhausted afterward.

Knowing What Kind of Coaching You Need

Through my experiences, I discovered that group coaching and one-on-one coaching feel very different. Group coaching offers community and perspective, while one-on-one coaching provides tailored strategies and deeper accountability. Knowing which style works best for you is crucial before making your next investment.

Investing Beyond Business

Not all investments were business-related. In 2024, I poured time and money into therapy, coaching for personal growth, and my mental health. I also leaned into my faith by attending Christian conferences that kept my spiritual cup full.

This balance reminded me that entrepreneurship and personal development go hand in hand—you can’t neglect one without it affecting the other.

The Numbers Behind Women in Business

One eye-opening takeaway from attending conferences was realizing how few women, especially Latinas, make it to the million-dollar mark in business. Statistics show that:

• Only 12% of female-owned businesses bring in more than $100,000 a year.

• Less than 2% of women entrepreneurs ever reach a million in revenue.

These numbers are sobering, but they also fuel my mission to help Latinas build businesses that break generational cycles and create financial freedom.

Final Thoughts

The truth is simple: starting an online business is one of the most expensive personal development journeys you’ll ever take. But it’s also one of the most rewarding.

Don’t be afraid to invest in yourself—whether through a book, a course, a coach, or even therapy. The return on investment may not be immediate, but if you stick with it, it will come.

If you’re ready to take the next step and want guidance from someone who’s walked this path, I’d love to coach you. Apply for coaching here and let’s build your business together.