How to Go From Striving to Thriving
We’ve talked about how to go from tired to inspired by clearing the clutter & making space for that which you desire to enter your life and your creative business. Now I’d like to share some ways to go from striving to thriving. I feel particularly passionate about this, because I know so many of you are working so very hard for so very little.
A recent Citibank survey of small business owners backs this up …
“The past few years have taken a personal toll on small business owners: 63% say the major challenge they face owning or running a business was personal stress and being accountable for everyone and everything, second only to the general state of the economy (66%).
Despite overall optimism, small business owners report making significant sacrifices to keep their businesses going and growing over the past few years. Not only did 78% take less profit to support the business at some point in the past, 66% did so to pay employees rather than reduce staff. A significant majority (70%) also say they worked more hours than usual, often sacrificing family time and missing vacations.
In addition to using their own money to help their business survive (69%), the majority of small business owners (54%) say they have gone without a paycheck. Looking back over the history of their businesses, almost one-quarter (23%) have gone without pay for one year or more.”
So what are some ways you can go from striving to thriving in your creative business?
The first thing to do is to get clear about your target market & ideal client. Otherwise, you’re probably marketing like everyone else to just about everyone. Define your target market & ideal client and focus your marketing activities on that ideal client. Stop trying to be everything to everyone.
Next, create systems for success. Save your self time energy & money by taking time to document your business processes and the steps that you take. Stop reinventing the wheel or winging it. Set up systems for absolutely everything from client intake to customer service, from order expediting to getting testimonials from clients.
Another way to go from striving to thriving – make sure you have a blueprint or a roadmap for business success. Charting your course helps create ease. Get in the flow and start thriving!
About the author, Kelly
Kelly Galea is a creative, multi-passionate entrepreneur and luminary blessed with a unique combination of wit, grit, intellect and intuition. She helps you navigate the work-life maze of ever-shifting priorities and transform your life through holistic self-discovery techniques and immersive, fun and magical mini-quests. Working with Kelly will inspire you to unveil, express and celebrate your vital personality and lifestyle preferences to create a more harmonious life.