April 10, 2020
Where do we even start, friend? On my last #togdiaries podcast episode we talked all about Covid-19, the impact it was having on small businesses, and some small business tips to help maintain sanity and motivation during COVID-19. Not too long ago, things were just getting started. But now…here we sit…trying to figure out how to not lose our stuff! Businesses have come to a screeching halt; and don’t get caught doing a porch session because someone will surely report you to the authorities. As a small business creative, I have been feeling the weight of the world on my shoulders and my heart breaks for my friends who don’t have a secondary income to fall back on, because they are it.
So now here we ALL sit. For us introverts it doesn’t seem all that bad, but for those extroverts, they are ready to climb the walls. I can’t lie, besides my daily devotional and good belly laugh watching TikTok, things can sometimes feel very gloomy. After speaking to my peers, I know I am not alone, and neither are you! I wanted to share a few small business tips and self-care tips that can help keep things positive in these uncertain times.
We are often told to put on a smiling face when we want to cry, or push through and be productive during a time when all you want to do is lay on the couch in your PJ’s. It is OKAY to allow yourself to feel…and for some of us, grieve. While in our creative community we are surrounded by go-getters and those who seem to have answers and plans, it is okay if you do not.
I like to spend my morning reading my bible and doing a daily devotional. For others, it might be meditation or spending some time in silence before starting your day. I highly recommend turning off the news and allowing your brain to relax. Feed your brain with positivity and words of affirmation.
Get moving. We already know exercise is proven to increase brain activity and helps with digestion and a world of other bodily functions. I feel so accomplished when I do things like walk or run in the park with the dogs. I sleep better and I am sure you are aware that it does increase your sex drive. Now that is all a win-win for me.
This is the perfect time to connect with family and friends that you have not had time to call with your busy schedules. Now, let me say you might want to avoid those who have a way of transferring negative energy if you are already in a low place…just a suggestion.
While the messy-bun-and-sweatpants look is a whole style now, it will make you feel good to put on some jeans and maybe do your hair or splash on some make-up (if those are things that make you feel good). This might be the perfect time to make some Facetime calls like I mentioned in tip #4.
I would highly encourage small businesses to connect with positive groups like Rising Tide Society and look for a local #tuesdaystogether group to connect with. While encouraging small businesses to move forward, they are also providing amazing information for small business loans and unemployment. I personally have been connecting with the nightly Zoom calls in Tomayia Colvin Education – The Community where they are sharing information that can help push small businesses forward.
This is a perfect change to reinvent your business or do a website refresh. We all know some of you…us…haven’t updated our website in years. Well now is the time, friend.
Also stay positive. This is not the time to take our foot off the gas pedal. Our clients are on their phones more than ever, and they are looking for answers, positivity and an escape. Don’t be afraid to post your truth, but also remember your audience is probably scared and looking for an escape.
Blogging has so many benefits, but most of all it is an outlet and a chance to showcase your work. Clients love tutorials, they will literally read a step-by-step tutorial on how to write an actual blog! If you are like me, you have sessions that you never had time to blog. Well, there is no time like the present.
Your closet is full of gear…no, just me? No, seriously it is spring, so take some time to clear your office. Decluttering can be helpful when it comes to getting your creative juices flowing and feeling a sense of rejuvenation.
As a small business, there is always someone who is doing something you wish you knew. Maybe it is video marketing or learning off camera flash. This is a perfect time to teach yourself something that can be a value add in the future.
Let’s be honest, no one wants to really know the truth do they? That they spent way too much money on gear or online education that you only logged into once? This is the time to cut expenses and to see if businesses are offering any small business relief. You may also find that you are paying for something that you no longer need.
Clients don’t just want to hear from you when you are selling something. Let them know that you are thinking about them and reach out with no underlying agenda. You may learn some fun things about them and they will be grateful to hear from someone who is wishing them well.
If you are like me, you have been using some of the same emails and processes since you started your small business. It is time to change it up; times are changing and client needs are changing. Don’t be afraid to reach out and get feedback from previous clients and apply their experience to improve your overall client experience.
If you still have sessions and events scheduled on your calendar for the next few months, I would encourage you to reach out to clients and let them know you are there for them and you want to help them with their rescheduling needs. They will appreciate having you as a partner rather than someone else they have to worry about. RescheduleDontCancel.com -join the movement!
Just to wrap up, these are all self care and small business tips that I have done that have helped me tremendously. I hope this encourages you today!