Ever wanted to quit something because is just felt too hard?

I know the feeling.

(Vulnerable post alert… )

I was actually in this state of mind during August – mostly focused around my business.

The thoughts would come and go…

Thoughts including:

– I think I’m just gonna quit. Give it all up.

– None of what I’m doing is helping anyone anyway.

– Why am I wasting my time?

– I just don’t have what it takes to run a business.

– I only wear creative hats – I can’t wear the business hat.

– Maybe I’m better off becoming a hermit, living a life that’s quiet and anonymous.

– Maybe I should just suck it up and put myself back into a regular 9-5 job again (even though this isn’t where my creative and sensitive spirit thrives).

These were some of the thoughts that I was listening to up until a couple of weeks ago.

I know it’s normal as a solo business owner to have fears and doubts about your progress and where you’re going with it all.

It takes a lot of motivation, self-belief, and drive to run a business, and it can be difficult to pick yourself up when you’re feeling down, trusting that it will all work out okay – especially when you’re doing most of it on your own.

Don’t get me wrong – I love it. Sweet Smiling Soul is my baby right now. 

But everything just felt hard for some time during August.

I could have easily quit.

But I didn’t.

And I’m glad I didn’t.

Instead, I decided to care more about my business.

So this is me – caring.

Hi, hello, how’re you going? 

Since I started to care again, I’ve had multiple opportunities come my way.

– Discovery calls with potential new clients 
– Creative collaboration opportunities 
– Views have gone up on my new Etsy store and website (even made a sale )
– Engagement has gone up on my social media accounts 

I’m also receiving more inspiration and finally feel as though I’m back on track.

And my mindset has improved. 

However, I must say that my mindset had to improve, first…

Here’s what I did to help myself get out of the funk:

– Revisited my testimonials from previous clients to remind me how much of an impact I’m creating in my clients lives, and checked in with current clients to see how they were progressing

– Reminded myself of my calling and what I’m being guided to do in this life – I’m here to create with my hands, and help people with my heart

– Started a new self-care routine: meditation and EFT (Tapping) – I’m listening to this and tapping along to this

– Continued paying attention to the signs I receive from the Universe, and also reflected on what has worked in the past when it comes to feeling motivated, inspired, and clear-headed in my business

– I took inspired action – I believe in manifestation but I don’t believe that you can only wish for things and expect them to just happen. First, you have to believe that your dreams are available to you. Then, you have to make aligned choices and take steps in the right direction, in order to make progress

– Practised allowing myself to receive in all forms. This includes asking for help when I need it

What I really wanted to share with you today, is that some things can take time, and there often needs to be a low before we can experience and appreciate a high. 

Being at a low point last month, allowed me to pause and really think about what I want in life.

There are many lessons that can be learned when we’re feeling lost, stuck, or in a funk.

But we have to be willing to open ourselves up and really listen to what the Universe is inviting us to reflect on.

Today, I look at the ‘funk’ as being an invitation.

An invitation to reassess my life and where I’m going.

Without moments of pause and self-reflection, we can never move forward with ease.

So I invite you today (if you’re currently feeling stuck), to remind yourself of why you started that big thing.

Or perhaps, why you really want that big thing (if you haven’t already started your journey towards it yet).

Remember what has helped you in the past to get back up on your feet.

Take a small action step today, towards your dream.

Care – just that little bit more about what you’re being called to do.

And if you need further guidance, I’m here for you