As someone who’s used to – and kind of enjoys – being at capacity most of the time, downtime can be a disorienting luxury.
For every successful business owner real downtime (not vacation time) is rare, and temporary. To make the most of this time, take deliberate steps to improve things behind the scenes. Making time to take care of your business, not just run it, helps set you up for long-term success.
Here’s what I recommend:
1. Examine your business from the outside in. Listen to your outgoing voicemail message – is it friendly and clear? Look at your email signature – is it up to date and properly branded? When was the last time you read your website homepage? Or subscribed to your own newsletter to see what happens?
2. Check out (or make) your LinkedIn profile. Make sure your profile picture is a professional head shot and that it’s up to date. You can get incredible virtual head shots done now! Ask for your well earned recommendations, and update your profile to engage potential new clients.
3. Post past content. If you’ve got newsletters or videos that are not yet posted on all of your virtual spaces, take steps to add them. Create a social media roster and make sure to repurpose great content to get the most out of your message.
4. Clean up “tolerations.” You know, those annoying little things that you keep putting up with. Are you always struggling to find client phone numbers? Do you keep needed supplies in the basement instead of near your desk? Is there a pile of papers in the corner that you’ve ignored for months (years?!)? Take the time now to handle these little annoyances and gift yourself peace of mind.
5. Organize your desk. Take everything off (yes, everything) clean it thoroughly, and only add back what you need. You’ll be amazed how a clear space helps clear the mind. Plus, you’ll probably find “that thing” you’ve been looking everywhere for!
6. Review your finances. Why wait until tax time to organize your expenses? Bring them up to date now and spare yourself the unwelcome, future stress.
7. Plan your next big project. What are you waiting for? Jump in!
So yes, while unanticipated downtime can be disorienting for people used to functioning at capacity, it can also bring a wonderfully different opportunity to keep moving forward. When it’s time to jump back in, you’ll be in a better place to take your business to the next level.
p.s. My website went live last month ~ check it out, I’d love the feedback! Small prize for the first person to mention the mistake!