Let's be real, running a business right now feels like trying to navigate a hurricane in a rowboat. Between global crises, political upheaval, and the ever-present pressure to "hustle," it's easy to feel overwhelmed, exhausted, and maybe even a little bit hopeless. I recently stumbled across something on a therapist's website that really resonated: "Is it me, or is it Capitalism?" And honestly, lately, that question has been echoing in my mind, especially as we navigate the complexities of running a business in this climate.
I don't have all the answers. Far from it. But I do know that if you're feeling exhausted, disheartened, and like you're constantly swimming upstream, you're not alone. It's okay to not be okay. We're living in unprecedented times, and it's natural to feel the weight of the world on our shoulders.
So, how do we keep our businesses afloat, our spirits up, and our sanity intact when the world feels like it's falling apart? Here are a few things that are helping me:
1. Find Your People: The Power of Community
Remember that quote by Dan Savage: "During the darkest days of the AIDS crisis, we buried our friends in the morning, we protested in the afternoon, and we danced all night. The dance kept us in the fight, because it was the dance we were fighting for." That's it, right there. We need each other. We need to connect with like-minded people who understand what we're going through. We need to share our struggles, celebrate our wins, and remind each other that we're not alone. And yes, we need to "dance." We need to find moments of joy, laughter, and connection to fuel our resilience and remind us what we're fighting for. Find your people, whether it's through online communities, local meetups, or even just a group of close friends. Lean on each other, support each other, and remember that you're in this together.
2. Prioritize Your Well-being: You Can't Pour from an Empty Cup
This is non-negotiable. You can't effectively run a business or fight for change if you're completely burnt out. Prioritize your physical and mental health. Get enough sleep, eat nutritious food, move your body, and take breaks when you need them. Don't feel guilty about taking time for yourself. It's not selfish; it's essential. Remember, self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity.
3. Engage and Act: Don't Bury Your Head in the Sand
While self-care is crucial, it's equally important to stay informed and engaged. Especially if you hold positions of power – through your work, finances, influence, or even just your visibility – you have a responsibility to use your voice. This can look different for everyone. Maybe it's calling your representatives, showing up at protests, volunteering with organizations you believe in, or simply having difficult conversations with your network. Don't underestimate the power of your actions, no matter how small they may seem. Every little bit helps. Just do the next best thing in front of you.
4. Keep Building: Our Businesses Are Our Resistance
Many of us started our businesses for a reason – to create a better world, to make a difference in our communities, and to build a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. And despite the challenges we face, we can't give up on that vision. Our businesses are not just about making money; they're about creating change. They're about building community, supporting our families, and creating the world we want to live in. So, keep building. Keep creating. Keep fighting for what you believe in. Because our businesses are our resistance.
The Takeaway: We Got This (Together)
Running a business in these times is hard. There's no way around it. But we're not in this alone. By finding community, staying engaged, continuing to build, and prioritizing our well-being, we can navigate these challenges and create a better future for ourselves, our businesses, and our world. We got this. Together.
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