Lonely evergreen trees stand tall at the foothills of Mt Hood.
Riding out the Drought
Imagine that you are settled into your business: you have a game plan, doing what you need to do, following what the clients’ needs are… and something changes.
Your cash flow gets interrupted and there’s been a shift in the industry. The leads have dried up and a few related businesses have died on the vine. You’re still okay, and you are still standing. But what happened? Hmmm. It’s time to look around.
And, you are still standing.
There are two types of stress we learn to deal with: regular stress and dis-stress.
We all need a little stress in order to step out of our comfort zone, to grow, to seek, to be creative. This type of regular stress helps us to keep trying and move forward along the way.
Dis-stress gets in the way of progress. Anxiety or pain can be crippling. It could be too much of everything to process. Or, could it be speculation that your business could fall victim of economic change, financial famine or seasonal drought?
When does stress turn into dis-stress? There is usually a tipping point:
- When the landlord raises your rent, and you need to regroup.
- When your expenses exceed income, month after month.
- When small delays on a project turn into a collision down the road.
- When a client doesn’t understand something, and it becomes an issue.
- When accidents happen…
Again: you are still standing.
And, there are reasons why you are still standing:
It takes vision to look past the bleak times.
It takes risk to make change.
It takes knowledge to make wise decisions.
It takes courage to stand up.
Look around to see what is working for you. There is something out there that makes you so unique and so strong, that gives momentum for you to carry on.
‘Do what you love and love what you do’ is the one of the best motto’s ever; but what happens when you’re struggling to pay the bills? You’ve picked your spot, and you are doing what you love, should you veer off and take another path? Realistically, can you afford not to be productive in the quieter times?
Some people close up shop for the anticipated dry spell and others forge on ahead…afraid to miss a sale.
You ‘should’ know which months are better than others for your business. Can you plan your business success within the ebb and tides of demand? Some people can plan for a lull in the summer months, other business have their lull in the winter. Every business has its own momentum.
Would you expect to have the ski hills open all summer? Most ski services change their business to suit the summer months; selling bicycles to boost their year-round presence for example.
Instead of closing all winter, many lawn and garden centers sell seasonal decorations in December. Additionally, restaurants are the first ones to adapt a new menu or fun drink to match the changing seasons.
What is the pulse of the industry today? For this week, or for the next season? Look for signs of life everywhere. The terrain can be a little rough from time to time, but you are still standing.
You may be a solo proprietor, but you are not alone.
Your unique talents may tend to isolate you from others, but they can also create great opportunities to team up with like-minded individuals. You’ll know if it is best to join forces with a group or continue to ride solo. You have not failed at all! Check your ego for bruises and regroup to find the right balance. You’ll find a way to get through the drought.
The evergreen withstands the drought of summer on the mountain when others don’t. Be patient. Another seasonal change is just around the corner. The fall rains and winter snows will return.
All the best, Kathryn
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Email me a note: kathryn@kathrynwilking.com
Kathryn Wilking is an Author, Stager and Feng Shui Consultant. Feng Shui is a perfect blend with her 20+ years of experience in Decorating and Home Improvements. Kathryn is available for site consultations and innovative talks in the Vancouver area. She delivers ‘Practical Solutions for Life!’ Visit her website to receive monthly tips from the Art of Balance at kathrynwilking.com
Have a question for Kathryn? Ask at kathryn@kathrynwilking.com
