How to support family and friends that own businesses.

So many of my friends and family own small businesses, and owning one myself during this pandemic crisis has been challenging. Each business challenge has been unique to the industry, size, and leadership, but we can all agree that we are all in an unforeseen place in time. 

What can you do to support your loved ones?

1. Call them and listen to them. They are usually not looking for advice but more support than they can get through this and that you are there if they need it.
2. Help promote their business. Give them a shot out on social media, or a Google review, if it makes sense to. Other ways are to let me know of ways in the community to submit their business for free promotions or help them make connections. These only take a little bit of time but make huge impacts.
3. Provide a little relief. A new challenge that many are going through is homeschooling. Running a business, a household, and children is a tremendous amount of work and needs attention constantly. Ask them how you can help. Even if it’s bringing over a ready to cook a meal, getting groceries, mowing the grass, anything at this time can be a blessing. Little acts of kindness during these times matter.

I experienced my first crisis six years ago.

My husband (and business partner) was in a car accident that resulted in him not working for over a year. Being unprepared in every way, including financial, and we started falling behind after a few months. I couldn’t keep up. I was exhausted, stressed, and so full of fear that I began to shut down myself. I couldn’t get everything done, and my family all lived hours away. You start to feel like you’re trapped on a deserted island. So I understand what it’s like to have your world turned upside down in an instant.

What really mattered were the little things. Friends who made sure I was ok, my family was calling or coming to visit just to help me get the gardens weeded and yard ready for spring, friends showing up with coffee and insisting we go out. Please don’t underestimate the little thing we do for others. In the time of crisis, they are what make the difference.

If you’re a business that needs help?

Consider getting a strategic business coach. I am here for you. I’ve lived it and survived and came out stronger than before. You can, too, but it’s a lot easier with help. I got a coach during my first crisis because I couldn’t make a decision but less understand if it was the right decision or not. I need guidance, focus, and someone who didn’t judge me. That is what I can be for you. 

Not sure what to do next? I can help you by going through a business assessment to see where you should focus your attention on first. Eventually, we start working on creating a stronger foundation, crisis plan and develop a more profitable way to run your business. 

Contact me for a free 45mins consultation to see if coaching is the next step for you.