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In all the hubbub of my crazy summer something pretty major happened that I completely ignored: My business turned 15. No celebratory notes or announcements. No cards or flowers. No social media posts. Not really even a second thought until weeks later when I casually mentioned it to a friend and they were amazed and said, "Let's celebrate." But, I didn't feel like celebrating. Or, more exactly, I didn't feel I had the time to celebrate. I was moving into my new apartment, getting my mom settled in and navigating the very challenging passage from part-time caregiver (with my own apartment) to a full-time live-in caregiver situation. I'm still coping with that, but here's the thing, life goes on. No matter what's happening. No matter what's consuming your attention or energy. Life is happening now. I know these are tough times for a lot of business owners and their loved ones, but stress and mental fatigue should not bar us from experiencing joy, from celebrating our wins, or even forgetting our troubles for a time. Here are 3 ways I move myself out of stress and 'panic' mode and into a calmer and more present state of mind, allowing me to restore some balance and control over my every day and, yes, let happiness in. Getting PhysicalDoing something with my body that requires my focus occupies my mind and activates different parts of my brain, which gives my emotional system a break and allows room for pleasure and peace. Try a new exercise or dance routine, learn a craft, or practice a new art form. Making a Habit of ItCreating a ritual around celebrating even my small successes and being consistent in following through on it means my brain learns to quickly recognize what's happening and can automatically shift my gears from stress mode to celebration mode. Light a candle, take a bath, toast yourself, repeat a mantra, or treat yourself to something you love. (I'm partial to some really good chocolate.) Sharing the LoveGratitude is amazingly powerful, so even when it feels particularly hard, I go deep and find something or, even better, someone to be grateful for...then I let them know it. When we switch focus from ourselves to others, especially those we love and are grateful for, we open up our capacity to feel joy and positivity. Reach out to someone and let them know how much they mean to you. If you can't do that, do a gratitude dance for someone or something (even yourself) that you appreciate. (My go to song is Can't Stop the Feelin') And, in the spirit of celebration, here's my Happy 15th Anniversary gift to you:15% off individual Business Therapy sessions for the rest of 2025!These one-hour 1-on-1 sessions are a great way to refocus, strategize, and prioritize so you leave with an action plan that moves you and your business forward. If you've been wondering whether business coaching can really make a difference in clarifying your next steps, a big decision, or strategic shifts, now's your chance to find out how working with an experienced and empathetic coach can level up your business and, more importantly, help you level up your game as a CEO and leader.
(Ooh, I feel a happy dance coming on just thinking about helping you set a path for success! How about you?) PS -If you missed it, last month I helped you navigate the Jungle that is our current economic climate. Your success is our strategy!No longer want to receive my newsletter but don't want to miss my special offers and announcements? Click here. |
I help entrepreneurs leapfrog over the typical potholes that derail most small businesses with inspiration, motivation, education, and support across a wide range of business topics drawn from over a decade of running my own business, teaching entrepreneurship for the City of New York, and coaching and consulting privately with dozens of women and minority small business owners. Honestly, why go it alone when help is an email away?
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