Like most folks, my life can get pretty stressful, and it can be hard to stay mentally as well as physically fit. I’ve always loved swimming, biking and running, so it’s little wonder that I enjoy doing triathlons. They keep me sane when life starts to feel especially chaotic. Focusing on what my body and mind can accomplish together eases whatever professional tensions I may be worrying about. The best part, though, is pushing myself a little further with each triathlon I do; I’m always trying to beat my last time.
It’s easy to get discouraged in this business. Everyone is so competitive. But business (and life!) aren’t about beating everyone else. If you want to be competitive, be competitive with yourself. Push yourself to do your personal best.
Sometimes, business is great. New jobs are rolling in, and you’re making lots of money. But, sometimes, business is slow. When that happens, hang in there. Make a few key and thoughtful changes to keep your business model and services fresh. Surround yourself with the people and things that inspire you. Have faith.
Sometimes this business requires you to swim. Sometimes to bike. Sometimes to run. But, no matter what, work hard and stay focused on the task at hand. Don’t worry about how others are doing.
Remember, you’re in this business for the long haul. It’s not a sprint.
Dear Readers, how do you maintain your faith during hard times? Have you ever given up on an idea or a passion? Do you regret it?
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George Bernard Shaw once said: “You see things and say, ‘Why?’ But I dream things that never were and say, ‘Why not?’” That quote embodies how Preston Bailey approaches every event.
keshia
July 28, 2011
This blog was absolutely excellent and came right on time. I am new to the wedding I distrust and I am a planner. I attended an event this past Tuesday and I was networking around the room and the more people I met the more intimidated I begin to feel. Once I lefty I was Happy for the connects but I begin to doubt my place in the industry. So thank you for the inspiration it came just in time.
Anonymous
July 28, 2011
My granny always says to pray without ceasing—whatever your spiritual beliefs are, its good to connect with that source daily!
Josephine Georgewill
July 28, 2011
By staying positive, singing and dancing, playing lawn tennis and looking at my past decor works, it gives me the strength to go on.
Pam Archer
July 28, 2011
Your post is inspirational!
It is easy to get discouraged in this business. My business is my passion, so I believe that when this is the case, it automatically sets us apart from our competition. When my business is slow, and I see my competition booking numerous weddings, I look at what I can change and improve. We are always learning, aren’t we?
I’ve also been a fitness professional for 25 years, so I understand the importance of physical activity to relieve stress. Regular exercise clears my head! When I’m out for a run or a walk, I often have creative ideas come into my head. When I’m teaching or taking a group fitness class, it requires mental focus, other than on my business, so it provides a good distraction for me. I’m not a good swimmer, but I would love to try a triathlon sometime. I’m impressed that you do this. Good for you!
Above all, it is my faith that keeps me going!
sharon jackson
July 28, 2011
Hi Mr Preston! When I do my “hat”shows, decorating or etc and things sometimes don’t turn out good. Keeping the Faith helps me to realize that it’s not a “failure” when something goes wrong, it’s an experience. I’ll continue to keep the Faith, because it helps me to know that it’s more “Blessings” to come, and that’s worth waitng for……………….from sharon jackson
Napkinwizard
July 29, 2011
Preston, great subject. I keep in faith even on hard times. I maybe only a Napkin folding Wizard
I know God gave me talent for a reason. So I am staying in faith.
V
July 29, 2011
very inspiring…!:) just when the going was tough with our business…u posted this!thank u!
Angela
July 29, 2011
Just plan for the quiet period. During that period i just take a break and use it to refresh on new ideas and ways to plan or modify existing concepts or ideas…
EL2
August 3, 2011
Thanks Preston – today is the hardest day I have had in years. Due to finance issues, we have had to surrender our studio space and move the business back into our home. I feel like an incredible failure right now, even though I have received rave reviews all summer long. Going backwards hurts so much. I really appreciate your words – they are something I will cling to in the coming days as we continue to move out. Thank you.