Just like in life, your mindset is directly correlated with the success or downfall of your business. You could have the most amazing product or service in the world, but if the people behind the scenes can't put forth the energy necessary to help it thrive, then it won't be successful.
Day to day demands can lead to a cycle of stress and feeling constantly overwhelmed, a.k.a the beginning of a perfect recipe for burnout. Being sensitive to stress and having the ability to self- soothe is extremely important when fighting off this plague.
Some easy tips to help you avoid burnout:
Work less:
- Work less hours: Hire good, trustworthy people and let them do their jobs.
- Stop expecting perfection: You’re going to make mistakes, and your staff are going to make mistakes, and that’s okay. Take risks and learn from your mistakes! Don’t drive like an old person and be overly cautious, perfection doesn’t exist.
- Say “yes" less: Don’t overextend your business by approving every request that you get from employees and customers. Don’t be afraid to say no once and awhile.
- Check your phone less: Create room for focus. By checking your email and phone twice a day this will allow you to focus on the business.
Keep your eyes on the prize:
- Set deadlines: If you don’t set deadlines, nothing will get done. Hold yourself accountable and expect your employees to do the same.
- Focus on impacting the bottom line: Look for new technologies that can help streamline your business and improve your customer experience.
- Grow or die: Make sure you are acquiring new customers, not just replacing the lost ones.
- Automate all recurring jobs: Look for integrated software solutions that leverage your effort and reduce labor such as marketing, payments, communications, logistics (pickup and delivery), assembly and accounting. These tools will streamline your business, saving you time and money.
- Cut payroll: Easier said than done but consider installing kiosks and lockers that allow customers to drop off/pick up their clothes 24/7 without the staff.
Create a list:
- To-do lists
- Marketing ideas
- New products
- Projects
- Research
- Job openings
Write things down and get them done!
Repeat your successes:
- Know your best customers: what they like, where they live, and what other products that they might buy.
- Understand the service level and preferences they desire.
- Know (if possible) where they work.
- Where they live, do they have a family, a dog, etc.
- If they are open to referring you to their coworkers.
Don’t let fear control your actions, be positive and take care of yourself!
