I was exchanging emails with a friend earlier this week when I mentioned that it was my goal to enjoy the holidays this year. For the past 5 years, since my indie business began, October through December 25 has been a stressful time of year for me. It's the busiest for sales which means production has to increase greatly. For the past 3 years, I've done several shows in addition to online sales. This year, I've cut back significantly. The result has been that my dining room hasn't turned into a sweat shop and I've been making dinners that require forethought and a stove. I hope to have my house decorated and holiday shopping done at an enjoyable pace. My mantra this year is "enjoy a stress free holiday." [Hey, that would make a great card.]
Back to my email with my friend. She said she was in the same place. Ahhhh, what a relief it is that someone else feels the same way I do. It's nice to know that I'm not alone. For years, my biggest struggles with my business were my own expectations (and believe me, no one could be harder on me then me). I've constantly struggled with whether I should go to the "next level" and grow my business, hire employees, etc. The answer has always been the same - I like the way things are and I like my business small and manageable for me. It is exactly as "big" as I want it to be.
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This is my first year doing any kind of show, but I'm glad I chose the one I did (and they chose me - yippee!) I usually am able to enjoy the holidays, even with my little biz. That may change this year... I'll keep you posted.
ReplyDeleteI'm looking forward to meeting you this December and we'll have a relaxed, fun time together!
Having a business that is big enough to bring you joy, satisfaction and self worth but small enough to maintain yourself is a gift. Slowing down, enjoying a stress free holiday is a wise business move. You can continue to enjoy your work without resentment and guilt. Choosing to preserve family joy at the holidays will be a decision you will never regret.
ReplyDeleteI think you got the right decision, the family is very important and spending more time with them will give joy and lovely memories.
ReplyDeleteI'm not sure a stress free holiday exists for any of us these days, but allowing yourself to cut back is a step in the right direction. You'll never regret it, just think of the holiday memories you're making for you & your family!
ReplyDeleteI'd like to second what Angie said. What a great comment! What a gift to be able to get satisfaction out of your work, yet keep it under control and manageable. What's the saying? "Run your business, don't let your business run you." Is that even a saying, who knows, nevertheless I think it's wise. And if you want a stress free holiday this year, well, I think that's fabulous.
ReplyDeleteHah! My moment is along the same lines - I've been so caught up in what's next that I haven't realized how much I've done! We should start a "trying to keep the holiday's stress free" club! :-)
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