Owning a small business is a dream for many, and can certainly be part of a satisfying and creative career. Of course, running your own business is hard work — and if it’s small, it will usually take some time to generate sustainable profits. Even then, margins may be consistently tight. As the owner, you will be on the hook for anything that goes wrong, and will be the ultimate decision maker for a wide variety of necessary choices.

While there’s no one way to assure success, the three tips below will help chart a path to profitability and fiscal sustainability.

1. Hire Well

A small business is only as good as its employees. When costs are tight, resist the temptation to skimp on staffing costs. A great team will ensure consistency and be a reliable support network to ensure success over time.

Seek out qualified or uniquely creative individuals. Delegate and let your employees grow with the business; a staff that feels equipped to take on responsibility will be higher-performing and ultimately more loyal.

2. Practice Fiscal Discipline

Managing costs is a constant necessity for a small business. Whether you’re doing great or are struggling, staying financially disciplined and focused is invaluable and will help you through hard times.

Stay focused on expenses and look for places where you can trim your budget — like finding a new supplier for a given piece of inventory, for instance. If possible, avoid risky and high-interest loans that can come back to haunt you. But don’t be afraid to spend a little extra on important projects, like renovations or expansions. These can ultimately pay significant dividends in the long run.

3. Take Care of Yourself

The stress of running a small enterprise can be overwhelming, particularly for a new entrepreneur. Do what’s necessary to maintain your own physical and mental health. Take time off as needed so you can refresh and recharge. Work on maintaining a social life outside of the workplace, because consistently taking your work home with you will lead to burnout. Ultimately, staying healthy in your personal life will allow you to be more engaged and focused in the workplace.

Running a small company is a lot of work. While days can be long and business challenging, the responsibility and opportunities in business ownership can be enormously gratifying over time. Try incorporating the three tips above in an effort to strengthen your business and help it thrive.