Owning a Business is a Labor of Love:
Prep Now for What Lies Ahead
Valentine J. Brkich
As summer draws to a close, it can only mean one thing: Labor Day!
You know, that one day a year when we pay tribute to America’s longtime tradition of hard work…by taking the day off, eating way too many hot dogs, and drinking way too many beers. What’s more American than that?
As a business owner, you understand the meaning of hard work. Yes, there is freedom in being an entrepreneur, but as we all know, it’s not easy. And the next few months can be the toughest of all.
So what can you do in the month of September to help you reach the goals you set for yourself way back in January?
1. Embrace the ‘Slow’
What do I mean by that? Well, chances are you’re a little (or a lot) worn out from the summer months. Besides running your business, the majority of your free time was probably spent at grad parties, dealing with your kids, or attending any of the myriad summer gatherings and festivals in your area. As an entrepreneur and parent myself, I can relate.
Now that September is here, the kids are all off to school, and the summer activities are winding down, use this time to wind down and embrace the slow. We all know how hectic the next few months will be, so give yourself a little grace. Find time to practice some self-care. Sleep in when you can. Set aside time to review your business’s success so far this year, and make a plan for the final stretch.
2. Ready the Ship
The coming months will be a challenge. So, like a ship preparing to embark on a long, arduous journey, you need to meticulously check everything to make sure you’re prepared. Does the hull show signs of any leaks? Do you have an adequate crew? Is the mizzen mast sturdy (whatever the heck that is).
Okay, maybe that metaphor went a little off course, but you know what I mean. Take the next month to review your business and ensure that you’re ready for what’s ahead. Do you have enough inventory? Does your staff have everything it needs to support you? Is your website watertight, and do you have enough material to create a steady stream of compelling social media content? Soon you’ll be too busy to think about any of this, so take advantage of the slower days to make sure you’re ready.
3. Strengthen Your Partnerships
No business can succeed on an island. Well, that is, unless you sell coconut openers. Or booze. Let’s face it: life can get pretty dull on an island.
As entrepreneurs, we all need the support of others who, like us, in addition to being a little crazy, have chosen to follow our passion and build something special. That’s why it’s so important to always be reconnecting with those individuals and organizations who appreciate what you do and want to see you succeed.
Take the next few weeks to reconnect with people and companies with whom you’ve partnered in the past. Let them know how much their support means to you. Likewise, make sure you convey your willingness to support them as well. You’d be surprised how valuable a little note or phone call can be.
So this Labor Day, as you’re sitting around regretting that third hot dog and fifth beer, commit to using this final “slower” month of the year to get ready for what’s ahead.
Because what’s ahead is three months of absolute insanity before January mercifully arrives—and then you can start the whole thing over again.