Running a business is undeniably challenging. We often face situations that require change, sometimes planned, sometimes unexpected. Regardless, change always brings emotions—often negative ones like fear, anxiety, anger, resentment, or even a sense of loss. These feelings can dominate our thoughts if we let them.
Let me share how I've learned to manage these emotions effectively, drawing on my years of business experience. I’m not a psychologist, but practical experience has taught me a few reliable strategies.
Reframe Your Thinking
One effective way to shift from negative to positive emotions is to reframe your thoughts. The way you think significantly influences how you feel and respond to challenges. For instance, if a key team member resigns, it’s easy to see it as a setback. However, it can also be an opportunity to bring in new skills and energies that might have been missing, revitalising your team and possibly improving how things are done.
Visualise Success
Visualisation is a powerful technique. I used it extensively during my pool-playing days, imagining the successful trajectory of a shot before taking it. Later, I applied this method in business to envision success in various endeavours. It might sound a bit far-fetched, but visualisation can genuinely enhance your focus and outcomes. There are experts, like fellow Dojo member Steve Cole, who can show you how to harness visualisation effectively for your business needs.
Meditate or Focus on Breathing
During moments of high stress or overwhelming challenges, simple meditation or focused breathing can be incredibly soothing. I recommend a technique I call ‘Lazy River,' which significantly calms my mind and helps me approach challenges more serenely. Just 20 minutes can make a substantial difference.
Consider the Consequences of Inaction
Change is often a precursor to growth, which is what most business owners aim for. Reflect on your business’s inception or other positive changes in your career. These reflections can be enlightening, reminding you that past challenges led to growth and success. Remembering these can transform your outlook on current challenges from dread to anticipation.
Fear and excitement are closely related emotions; a slight shift in perspective can change one into the other. It's about how you choose to approach the situation. Try these strategies and find which ones resonate most with you.
Here's to your success,
Kevin
These methods aren't just theoretical; they're practical tools that can help steer your business through its most challenging moments and transform potential stress into productive outcomes.
Hi Kevin, a good post to stimulate food for thought. Every business person gets a bee in their bonnet from time to time, it’s only natural. This is particularly more destructive if you are a solopreneur and you don’t have anyone to bounce off. Using the points you stated above as a method of self-help can only be a good thing: stop, take stock, relax and look at the current situation from another viewpoint.