When the outside world feels unstable, focus on what you can control. Your numbers, your plans, and your next steps.

If you’re a small business owner feeling the weight of 2025’s chaos, you’re not alone.

With political uncertainty swirling, economic unpredictability across global markets and interest rates still in flux, it’s no wonder many business owners are feeling unsettled.

We’re speaking to clients every day who are asking:

• “Should I be worried?”
• “Should I pause hiring?”
• “What if my clients pull back?”

Economic instability doesn’t have to equal business instability.

In fact, this is where small businesses can thrive. You’re agile, close to your numbers, and able to adapt faster than large organisations weighed down by red tape.

But it does take intention. Planning. And a bit of courage.

What can you do when everything feels unpredictable?

Here are 5 ways to create stability in your business, even when the outside world feels anything but.

1. Start with visibility.

You can’t plan for the unknown if you don’t know what’s going on in your business right now.

• Review your numbers regularly.
• Look closely at your margins, overheads, and cash flow.
• Are there expenses you could pause? Clients you rely heavily on? Opportunities that could be maximised?

The more clearly you can see what’s happening inside your business, the less vulnerable you are to what’s happening outside it.

2. Scenario plan (calmly)

This isn’t about fear-mongering. It’s about being proactive.

Ask yourself:

• What if revenue drops by 20% next quarter?
• What if a key supplier increases prices?
• What if your biggest client delays payment?

Having “what if” responses already mapped out gives you clarity and peace of mind. You don’t need to expect the worst. But being ready for it? That’s powerful.

3. Focus on cash, not just profit.

It’s easy to get distracted by sales targets and turnover goals, but in uncertain times, cash is king.

Review your payment terms. Streamline your invoicing. Chase up late payers (nicely, but firmly). Look at where you can smooth out the flow of money in and out.

Remember…profit doesn’t pay bills, cash does

4. Revisit your pricing.

Many small business owners haven’t updated their pricing in years. And with rising costs across the board, that could be putting unnecessary pressure on your cash flow.

You don’t need to double your prices overnight but do check that your current pricing still reflects your value and keeps your business sustainable

5. Lean into your support network.

This isn’t the time to go it alone. Whether it’s speaking to your accountant, joining a mastermind, or chatting with other business owners, clarity often comes through conversation.

A second pair of eyes can help you spot what you’ve missed, and help you feel less like you’re carrying the load on your own.

At Troy, we’re helping clients steady the ship.

We’re reviewing forecasts, adjusting plans, and giving clients space to breathe and make confident decisions, even in the face of uncertainty.

Planning doesn’t mean predicting the future. It means staying grounded, informed, and ready to respond, instead of reacting.

If you’re feeling uncertain, unsettled, or unsure what your next step should be, we’re here. Book a call with us and let’s look at the numbers together and make a plan that gives you peace of mind, whatever’s going on outside.

Or drop us and email at [email protected], or call us on 0330 134 0282