Earlier this month I received a call from a former coaching client and business owner telling me he was fed up with the flooring industry. After many years in the industry, he said he just wasn’t motivated.
My client started installing at a young age and eventually started his own business. His shop is on the small side, but chic. Plus, he has great customer reviews and loyal employees. Now he wonders what to do next? How on earth can he get himself back on his feet and stay motivated?
My client’s predicament reminds me of an old Peggy Lee song, “Is That All There Is?” Let’s face it: the past two years have been both hectic and unpredictable. We all know how to get more customers in bad times, but we are not used to drastic changes in energy prices, rising interest rates and supply problems, although the latter seem to be easing somewhat. And let’s not forget the consequences of the pandemic! We didn’t deal with all of these things at once. It’s a recipe for burnout.
Here are some tips to stay positive, motivated and above all healthy:
- Take care of yourself. If you’re not working out, it’s time to get started. You may have to push yourself to get going, but exercising releases endorphins that boost your energy levels. Don’t think about it, just follow a schedule.
- Get in touch with new people. I suggest joining a group made up of other owners and managers – perhaps a group focused on leadership? We’re all drawn to people who make things happen, so do it.
- Give yourself some rest during the day. Find a quiet place to think or meditate. During this “quiet time”, do not pick up the phone or open the door. Now is a good time to meditate or listen to a podcast that will help your mind or business.
- Get enough sleep/rest. Not getting enough sleep can jeopardize your health and cause depression. Sleep also helps your mind unwind and recharge. If you like afternoon naps, take one.
- Make a list of the things you enjoy doing. We all multitask these days, but make sure you set aside some time to do the things you enjoy. For example, if you enjoy being outdoors, make sure you step outside for some fresh air and sunlight. We forget that when we take away all the things that give us joy, we start to feel resentful and angry.
- Hire a life or business coach. A coach can give you new ideas on how to better manage your life and business. He/she can help you prioritize what’s important and how to make the necessary changes in your life. This doesn’t have to be forever, but sign up for at least six months and stick to it. I’ve found that most people know what to do, but when it comes down to it, they get in their own way. We often hate to get out of our comfort zone, but this is where change begins.
As we approach the new year, think about fundamental ways to improve your life/health/business. Remember these don’t have to be drastic changes – start small with something more incremental but also meaningful. Change usually starts with taking a small step.
Lisbeth Calandrino has been promoting retail strategies for 20 years. Contact her at lcalandrino@nycap.rr.com to have her speak for your company or schedule a consultation
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