Resolutions, OR Ditch Them for a Business?

Resolutions in General

I am not sure if I really do well with the idea of a “resolution”. For me, to resolve something means that there is a problem to fix versus the latter definition of making a decision and following a clear course to see it through. Maybe this is because I am more of a dive in person instead of taking steps to get into the water. Regardless, I, like most people, did secretly think of a few things I would like to focus more on (personally, as well as) with the business venture.

My Business Resolutions This Year

·       Newby. Yes, I am still a new business so I do not want to overload my plate with all these things to immediately change. I do, however, want to make sure I keep a notebook with me at ALL times to notate designs that pop up in my head, ideas that customer’s and my experiences reveal, and to jot down anything that sparks a change that I may want to incorporate on my website, social media platforms, or at a vendor show.

·       Social Media. This is such a scary side of things for me. I am not one to post my life or thoughts out there to the internet as I have years of movies and authority figures telling you to protect your personal life and vulnerabilities. Okay, that was a bit too dark for Spooky D’s there. [Rewinding, and skipping over that part.] Goal is to add content for the business on Facebook and my website, and begin to add content to my Instagram. Keep it simple and short. Try to do at least 2 to 3 a week. Work to get some viewers and customers to the online store that won’t break the cauldron. (Yes, I keep my money in a cauldron – that is hexed – so don’t look in it or reach for the goodies hidden inside!) Lastly, begin a newsletter that I send once a month or every two weeks to email subscribers.

·       Continue Learning and Improving Quality. Focus on taking those designs, bring them to life, and strive to be proud of what I share with customers. If I am not feeling it, then put it on a back burner or toss. Take risks. Try something out. See what customers navigate towards and enjoy, or don’t even give it a first glance. This is the time to test things out.

·       Stay Grateful. Remember why I started in the first place. This is my journey and I can navigate the waters how I see fit. If I need to change course, then I will. If I need to take a break on shore, then I will park the boat and give it 5. If I need to power through a rough spot, then “bring it on”! You get it.

Did you know for a Business…

·       Small Business Goals often evolve. Flexibility and change are the nature of a small business. So, I guess I better buckle up or more appropriately, jump on the broom and fly where the wind takes me. Ultimately, any progress forward is a win that counts and worth celebration.

·       Creative burnout is real. Get creative. Work to get ideas down on paper or make them come to life. Take a rest. Breathe. All important things. Taking time to check in with myself and make sure I do not burn out from becoming overwhelmed at getting everything done. Make a goal for each show for products, keep it small, and finish them. Keep making small improvements and work to follow through. Then breathe.

·       Every Product started from an Idea. Or scribble. Or 3am shadow hour brain spaz. No matter when or how it began, the idea came and then sprouted to Life. Each idea makes it into a sketchbook / journal, like in the photo - I think I actually bought mine at Half Price Books. Maybe one day I will make my own. [Wrote this idea down inside it.] To note, I have so many more sketchbooks than the photo shows. And one I cannot find at this moment.

·       Wearing many, Many Hats. Some people have one job. I have many. I am not just a business owner, but I am also a maker, artist, designer, planner, marketer, website architect, tech support, program specialist, researcher, social media outlet, public relations, author, transport, cashier, and the list goes on. Also, not to mention a mom. Let’s not even go down what is under that hat! [Ooooh! Just had an idea… scribbling it down… ] All I’m saying is its many positions and a dreamer, all in one.

I guess in the end, it’s down on paper OR Digitlore. See what I did there. I took digital and Strathmore, combined it and added some lore to make it more mystical. Well, in my head it sounded terrific. Now, I can work on this internet vision board and make those dreams into fruition. Cheers to what is to come!