Do you remember sitting cross-legged in front of the TV, singing along as Steve from Blue’s Clues asked us to help solve puzzles? With his handy-dandy notebook, he made everything feel so achievable and fun. Well, it turns out that approach works just as well for navigating the puzzles of life and business. Let’s channel some of that Blue’s Clues magic into a framework I call STEVE: Simplify, Thrive, Educate, Value, Elevate. Grab your metaphorical notebook, and let’s find the clues to success together.

Why STEVE?

This article started as a joke—I made a quip, and my friend Alex shot back with, “What? Are you going to name the article Steve?” So I thought of Steve’s that I knew and One Steve in particular had a big influence on my life, and this framework draws from lessons I’ve learned in my journey—and from things I talk about often.

Clue #1: Simplify

The first clue is all about cutting through the noise. Just like Steve would break a big puzzle into bite-sized pieces, simplifying your goals helps make everything feel more manageable. For me, this idea was key during my weight loss journey. I knew that small, consistent baby steps could lead to big changes. And they did—80 pounds later, I can tell you that simplicity works.

Ask yourself:

• What are my core priorities right now?
• What tasks can I eliminate, delegate, or streamline?

In business, complexity often leads to overwhelm. By simplifying your processes, you’ll have the clarity to see the bigger picture and focus on what really matters—whether it’s growing your client base, refining your marketing plan, or simply managing your time better.

Clue #2: Thrive

When Steve figured out what Blue wanted, the whole team—Mailbox, Shovel, Pail, even Salt and Pepper—worked together to make it happen. Thriving in business means building your own supportive team and environment. During my weight loss journey, I thrived because I built a team of healthcare providers, mentors, and supporters who helped me stay on track and believe in myself.

Reflect on:

• What systems and relationships help me succeed?
• Am I taking care of my mental and physical health so I can show up fully?

To thrive, you need a strong foundation. Cultivate a network of mentors, colleagues, and tools that support your growth—and don’t forget to celebrate your wins along the way.

Clue #3: Educate

Steve never solved puzzles alone—he always learned from the clues we found together. Education is the key to growth, whether you’re brushing up on industry trends, mastering new technology, or gaining insights from peers. For me, education during my journey meant listening to people who knew what they were talking about, so I could make the best decisions for my health and my future.

Think about:

• What skills or knowledge gaps are holding me back?
• How can I stay curious and keep learning?

Remember, learning doesn’t have to feel like homework. Podcasts, webinars, and even conversations with other professionals can be fun and inspiring ways to level up.

Clue #4: Value

When Steve asked for our help, he made us feel valued. Bringing that same energy into your business is essential. Are you showing your clients, colleagues, and even yourself that you value their time, effort, and trust? During my journey, I found value in what I could share with others. Sharing my experiences and lessons learned became a way to help and connect with others.

Consider:

• How am I communicating my unique value to others?
• Am I expressing gratitude to the people who support me?

Adding value doesn’t always mean doing something big. Sometimes, it’s the small touches—like a handwritten thank-you note or remembering a client’s favorite coffee order—that make all the difference.

Clue #5: Elevate

Steve never stopped at solving one clue—he always went further, elevating the experience with a cheerful dance or a heartfelt song. In business, elevating means going above and beyond to create something memorable. For me, elevation has always been about continuing to help others achieve their goals, just as I’ve worked toward mine.

Ask yourself:

• What can I do to stand out in my field?
• How can I take my efforts to the next level?

Whether it’s enhancing your personal brand, offering an unforgettable client experience, or finding creative ways to market your business, elevating ensures you’re always moving forward.

The Big Picture

Now that we’ve found all the clues, let’s take a step back and see what we’ve pieced together. The STEVE framework isn’t just a clever acronym; it’s a guide to thriving in business while keeping things fun and approachable. By simplifying your goals, building a thriving support system, continuing to educate yourself, valuing others, and always looking to elevate your efforts, you’ll be unstoppable.

So grab your handy-dandy notebook and start jotting down your own clues for success. And just like Steve always said, “You’re really smart… you know with me and you, and my dog Blue, we can do… anything… that we wanna do!”

What are you waiting for? It’s time to find your first clue!