Thanksgiving is a special time of year that inspires us to slow down and think about what we’re thankful for – whether it’s family, friends, good health, a comfortable place to live or something more personal. But if you’re a business owner, Thanksgiving is also a stressful time that’s on the bleeding edge of the holiday shopping season and the end of the year. As we approach the next Thanksgiving, we here at The Growth Coach encourage you to take some time away from your busy schedule, celebrate with your loved ones and be thankful. It’s time to Stop, Look and Listen.
Stop: We know this is probably one of your busiest times of the year, but taking a few hours to be with your family on Thanksgiving – even just to enjoy each other’s company – is important. You need to reset your emotional battery and, even if you procrastinate and are planning for Small Business Saturday, those few hours aren’t going to make or break your business. Plus, if you are able to recharge your battery, you’ll be even more prepared for the busy weekend ahead.
Look: Before you close up shop for the holiday, take a few minutes to look around and take stock of all the things your business gives you to be thankful for – whether that’s the ability to support your family, the great team you’ve built or even, hopefully, the fact that you don’t have to spend every day at a job you hate. If there are people who deserve a little extra appreciation on Thanksgiving – and throughout the year – take a minute to do that too. It’s worth the time.
Listen: When you are home with your loved ones, really listen to them. Turn off your email notifications, put your phone on silent, avoid Facebook and really soak in that time you get to spend with the ones you care about the most. When you’re a business owner – especially when you’re starting out – life can be especially busy. Thanksgiving is the perfect time to slow down and enjoy life.
Repeat: Thanksgiving is a great time to slow down and be thankful, but make time for your loved ones isn’t a 1-day-out-of-365 job. Look at your calendar and schedule other times when you can clock out and reset that emotional batter.
If you can’t take a break from your business this holiday or if those few hours really are make or break, it’s time to talk to your local Growth Coach. We’d be willing to bet you didn’t get into business because you wanted a really demanding job. Find your coach: https://www.thegrowthcoach.com/find-a-coach.