This morning I saw a post:  How do you cope with stress?  Now this might be easy to answer when you have most things under control.  But when your whole life has changed in one night because your house was flooded or you cannot get to your workplace because the roads have washed away, or you are stranded in a town after a long weekend because the roads washed away or you have no running water because the storm damage was so big that the authorities first have to rebuild the roads before they can get to the place where they must repair the water infrastructure.  We just heard now it will be another 3 – 4 weeks before we will have running water again.  Or you could not sleep because you had to hold on to a window in the strong wind.  Then ask me how you deal with stress and my answer might be way different. 

For me music and chocolate will always work, even if it only works temporarily.  And running.  Running solves a lot of problems (but I am booked of sick), so I am not allowed to run now.  And of course, there is always something to be grateful for, so when I need to motivate myself I always look around myself to find one thing to be grateful for and every morning I make a list of at least three things.  I get it you might not feel like it now, but just try it.  

4 Tips on how to conquer external challenges and emerge stronger than ever:

1. Embrace Change – We have learned in Covid that we don’t like uncertainty and I almost feel like saying I now miss lockdown, but small businesses that are open to change and quick to adapt tend to excel when facing challenges. Don’t be afraid to pivot, explore new markets, or revise your business model to suit the current environment. Remember that change is the cornerstone of progress.
2. Cultivate Strong Customer Relationships – EVERYONE is on edge, and you will most likely have to deal with a “difficult” customer this week. Stay calm and go the extra mile to exceed their expectations. In tough times, loyal customers can provide a steady source of income and even refer new clients to your business.
3. Seek Support and Networking – You’re not ALONE in your journey. Reach out to fellow Smart Business Owners and work together. Networking can provide valuable insights, collaborations, and emotional support during challenging times. Remember, a problem shared is a problem halved.
4. Maintain a Positive Mindset – Be KIND.  Cultivate resilience and maintain a can-do attitude. People may be panicking at this time.  Find ways to do calming exercises as a team.  Every challenge you face is an opportunity for growth and learning. Celebrate small victories along the way and motivate your employees during this time.

Remember, every challenge is an opportunity in disguise. Embrace change, stay informed, diversify, and foster strong relationships. With the right mindset and strategies, your small business can not only weather the storm but emerge stronger and more resilient than ever before. Keep believing in your vision, adapt to the circumstances, and watch your business thrive despite external challenges.

And if you don’t have the energy for any of the above, my best advice for you is to do what you must do to stay calm.  Take only one step as a time.  This too shall pass.  You are welcome to contact us if you feel you need a shoulder.        

 Our hearts are going out to our customers and clients in the Western Cape who are affected due to the recent level 9 storm.