Staying Motivated: How are we, as business owners, finding continued motivation and showing up best for our customers?
Ah, the trifecta of business owner struggles: long hours, a tough economy, and weather that makes you want to trade in your laptop for a blanket fort and a mug of cocoa. We get it. Running a small business during these less-than-ideal times can feel like a never-ending marathon through a cold, rainy, uphill trail—without the promise of a medal at the end. But here at Farmhouse Creative, we’ve found ways to stay motivated, keep showing up for our customers, and even laugh a little along the way.
1. Embrace the Coffee (or Tea, or Hot Chocolate—Whatever Gets You Through)
When the skies are gray and the days seem to drag on forever, a little caffeine boost can go a long way. Let’s be real: there’s something about wrapping your hands around a warm mug that just makes the world seem a bit more manageable. And if you’re like us, you might even have a fancy coffee mug collection to remind you why you started this crazy journey in the first place. (We may or may not have one that says, “I survived another Monday.”) But beyond the caffeine, take those little breaks to recharge. Step away from the computer, stretch, and remember that a quick refresh can be your best productivity tool.
2. Focus on the Small Wins
In a tough economy, it can be easy to get bogged down by the numbers, especially when they aren’t exactly in your favor. But instead of focusing on what’s out of your control, celebrate the small victories. Did you get a glowing review from a customer? High-five yourself! Did you finally tackle that overflowing inbox? You’re basically a superhero. When you start looking for the good stuff, even on the dreariest of days, you’ll find it—and those little wins add up to a lot of motivation to keep going.
3. Remember Why You Started
We know it’s cliché, but on the tough days, it’s important to reconnect with why you became a business owner in the first place. Chances are, it wasn’t because you thought it would be easy. Whether it’s your passion for your product, your desire to serve your community, or simply the joy of being your own boss (and wearing sweatpants while you work), remembering your “why” can reignite that spark when the world feels like it’s throwing one too many curveballs. And hey, if that spark comes with a side of Netflix in the background during a slow workday, no judgment here.
4. Lean on Your Community
You don’t have to face the tough times alone. Whether it’s bouncing ideas off a fellow business owner, chatting with your favorite customer, or even reaching out to us here at Farmhouse Creative (we’re always good for some marketing advice and a pep talk), community makes all the difference. Sometimes, the best motivation is knowing you’re not in this alone. Plus, nothing brightens a dreary day like a good laugh with someone who “gets it.”
In the end, showing up for your customers, no matter the challenges, is what sets you apart as a business owner. You’re in this because you’re resilient, resourceful, and maybe just a little bit stubborn—and that’s exactly what makes you great. So grab that coffee mug, take a deep breath, and keep moving forward. You’ve got this! And if you need a hand, well, you know where to find us.