In business (and in life), change is the only constant. However, some change can be extremely frustrating when it pops up unexpectedly. With all the daily “to-do’s” we have to complete, concentrating on a sudden change isn’t usually high on our priority list. The gorgeous end of change that Robin Sharma is referring to in his quote is simply, growth. And growth is what will propel our businesses forward.

Growth requires more than embracing change. It requires strategy.

It also requires a place on your calendar. Let’s be real. Usually, if we don’t write something down it more than likely won’t happen. However, there are a few ways to be proactive about growing your dog business, while still maintaining your day-to-day activities.

1. SET GOALS – Growth means you’re working towards something. You’re moving forward. Your goals are where you’re moving to. They keep you focused.
2. SCHEDULE MARKETING – It’s usually easier for us to include the big events, such as conferences and fairs on our calendar. But it is also helpful to schedule the smaller marketing activities, such as posting on social media, calling customers, sending out email blasts, etc. Scheduling the smaller marketing activities will make it easier for you to build them into your routine.
3. ASK “IF” – Sometimes “unexpected” change can be avoided. Designate specific times throughout the year for you to determine “if ____ happens, I’ll ____.” For instance, “if I get 10 requests to watch 10 dogs on the same day, I’ll enlist my sister to help me watch and then give her a fee.” Asking “if” questions will allow you to have a Plan “B” in place, so in case something does happen you can respond immediately.
4. ENLIST HELP – Growth always take work and strategic planning. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, and try to do everything on your own. Asking for help relieves the stress and allows you to think and plan clearly.

Potty training was probably one of the biggest examples of growth for me. It took several weeks of potty pads, scheduled walks, and the help of Mom teaching me what the words “go potty” actually means. In a nutshell, this type of growth took a whole lot of scheduling and strategy to help me get to the point I am now. So…

These Pumpkin Carob Chip Pupcakes With Carob Frosting are dedicated to growth.

And of course, we believe that every pupcake has a love story. So, while your favorite pup is PUPPY LOVIN’ on these pupcakes, we’d love to hear from you.

Discuss a time where planning for growth and change in your pet business worked to your benefit.

Please share your pupcake story in the box below.

And, after you’ve tried this recipe please share it with us @pupcakesugar on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, or all three. We’d love to see how they turned out for you.

Ingredients

Pumpkin Carob Chip Pupcakes

• ½ Cup Brown Rice Flour
• 1 Teaspoon Baking Powder
• 1 Tablespoon Olive Oil
• ⅓ Cup Pumpkin Puree
• ⅓ Cup Yogurt
• 1 Tablespoon Pure Honey
• 2 Tablespoons Carob Chips
• 1 Egg

Carob Frosting

• ⅓ Cup Plain Yogurt
• ½ Cup Brown Rice Flour
• 2 Tablespoons Carob Powder

Instructions

Yields: 12 – 15 Mini Pupcakes

For Pumpkin Carob Chip Pupcakes

1. Preheat oven to 350° Line 12 – 15 1.75-inch mini-muffin pan with paper bake cups and set aside.
2. In small bowl mix together flour and baking powder. Set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl add olive oil, pumpkin puree, yogurt, honey, carob chips, and egg. Beat on medium speed about 2 minutes or until combined.
4. Add dry ingredients into the mixture and blend for approximately 2 minutes until well mixed.
5. Fill each cupcake liner with 1 tablespoon of pupcake mix and bake for 12 to 15 minutes. Pupcakes are done when you can stick a toothpick into the cake and it comes out clean. Remove from pan and cool on wire rack.
6. Spread or pipe carob frosting onto the pupcakes.

For Carob Frosting

1. In large mixing bowl beat yogurt, flour, and carob powder together on medium speed. Mix until creamy. Frosting should have the consistency of whipped cream.
2. Spread or pipe carob frosting onto the pupcakes.

Notes

• This recipe is for a fun treat ONLY. It should not replace your dog’s regular meals. Please consult with your vet on the best plan for your dog’s diet.