If this year has taught us anything, it’s how to be resourceful in both life and business. So many people have had to learn new skills and really dig in to how they can keep their businesses up and running (and the doors open). But what happens when you’re at the end of your creative rope, and you don’t know how to increase that bottom line?

You’ve probably heard the old saying: you have to spend money to make money. Who hasn’t? But what I want you to know is that it’s not true. Friend, you don’t actually have to spend money to make money. All you need to do is maximise what you already have.

Here are three ways to make more money in your business (without going into debt):

Maximise what you already have

One key to maximising your profits is by maximising your mind. Yep, I’m talking about brainstorming. By using the skills, knowledge, and experience you have, come up with a list of additional sources of income for your business in this season. Look at your inventory, try selling your products in bundles, or give out samples.

Maximise your money

There’s a big difference between a hobby and a business. A hobby costs you money, but a business makes you money. I want you to look at your numbers, because if you don’t know them you can’t improve them. Where can you increase your prices? And what expenses can you cut?

Maximise your connections

Every opportunity you’ll ever have in your lifetime will come through people. That means no matter what type of business you’re in, you’re always in the people business. Who can you reach out to? Who can help you get to where you need to be?

Go out there and make the rest of this year count. When you focus on maximising your skills, your money and your connections, there’s no telling where you can take your business!

• Christy Wright is a No 1 national bestselling author, personal development expert, and host of The Christy Wright Show. She’s been featured on Today Show and Fox News, and in Entrepreneur and Woman’s Day magazines. Since 2009, Christy has served at Ramsey Solutions, where she teaches on personal development, business, and faith. You can follow Christy on Twitter, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube or online at www.christywright.com