Reflection: Not Your Basic Business Conference — Where Growth Took Root

This weekend, I had the joy of representing Alo Civitas Consulting at The Beauty Boost’s “Not Your Basic Business Conference” — a vibrant gathering of women entrepreneurs, dreamers, and doers from across the midwest including Columbus Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Cleveland. The energy in the room was electric — a blend of inspiration, ambition, and authentic connection that reminded me exactly why I do this work.

As a vendor, I created an experience station called “Plant Your Goal.” Attendees were invited to pause for a moment of reflection, write down one goal they wanted to nurture in the new year, and physically plant it as a symbol of commitment and growth. Each person then snapped a photo for accountability and shared it on social — a simple but powerful act of planting seeds, both literally and figuratively. Watching each goal take root throughout the day was deeply moving. From expanding businesses to finding balance, each one represented courage and vision for what’s ahead.

Later, I had the privilege of presenting one of our signature talks, “Grow Without the Grind.” We explored what it truly means to build a thriving business — not through constant hustle, but through clarity and intention. Together, we unpacked three key pillars:

• Simplify your services: Focus on what matters most and what generates both impact and income.

• Systemize your support: Build structures that sustain you and your clients, not drain you.

• Sustain success through rest and boundaries: Because growth isn’t just about scaling — it’s about staying grounded.

The conversations that followed were rich and real. Many attendees shared how they’d been craving permission to slow down without losing momentum — and this session offered them both language and strategy for that shift.

By the end of the day, the room was filled with vision boards, planted goals, and hearts ready for what’s next. I left feeling profoundly inspired — not just by what was accomplished, but by the shared sense of purpose and possibility. The Beauty Boost community continues to embody what it means to rise together: women supporting women, business owners cheering each other on, and a collective commitment to growth without burnout.

As I packed up our table, I couldn’t help but smile at the rows of planted goals — tiny reminders that big things grow from small, intentional seeds. My cup (and my heart) are full. Here’s to everything that will bloom in 2026. 🌱

What goal are you planting for the new year?
Share it back with us or tag us on social @alocivitas so we can cheer you on as you grow without the grind! 🌱

We are excited to partner with Columbus Early Learning Center for a food drive to help ensure children in their care are able to eat over the holidays. Check out their amazon wishlist here