I spent last evening at a ‘Recession Busting’ seminar presented by Warwick McCormack. This was part of the training that is available through Trade and Enterprise. What a great opportunity they provide for learning and for building supportive relationships with other small business owners.
I particularly liked Warwick’s balanced approach to ‘the R word’. It was basically ‘yes it is happening and what can you do to get through it’. I often think the middle way is one that blends an acknowledgement of a situation with a positive approach. This in turn leads to taking determined and focused action that takes you in the direction of your goals and dreams.
Accepting is not giving in. It is a starting point that takes the struggle out of the equation. Denying something is happening doesn’t stop it happening; fighting it only exhausts you; and pretending life is always rosy leaves you wandering around in a fog of self-delusion.
Don’t misunderstand me – I’m not suggesting that you wallow in the awfulness and think that you are helpless and the situation is hopeless – that way leads to despair and stagnation and ends up with you going under.
What I find really helpful is to not get stuck in the horribleness and negativity, but to start with ‘yes, this is happening and it’s hard – now what can I do to make it better?’ Focusing on a positive outcome and believing that you have the ability to take effective action can help propel you forward and sustain and motivate you to actually do what it takes to get through and move towards your ultimate goals.
Part of Warwick’s parting advice was to hold on to your passion and belief.
What you focus on grows – what are you focusing on – recession or recovery; your dreams or dramas?
