It is February, the month of love. Just like any romantic relationship, your business needs to be nurtured and cared for. You started your business with stars in your eyes, passion in your heart, and dreams as big as the sky. But over time, the daily grind may have dimmed that spark.
When this happens, it is time to reignite the flame and learn to fall in love with your business all over again. The first thing to do is to go back in time when you loved going to work. Just like reading your old love letters or reminiscing about your first date, revisit your business's origins. Remember the excitement of your very first patient and the thrill of your startup journey. It's a trip down memory lane that will make your heart skip a beat.
Next, it is time to spice things up. Consider bringing on new services or introducing exciting promotions. Then go on a date with your patients and staff. Get to really know them. For your staff, ask them their opinion on how you can make coming to work fun and what fun activities you can implement. Maybe take a day off and take the whole staff bowling and go for pizza afterward.
For your patients, conduct surveys and gather feedback. Call them after a surgical procedure or send out birthday cards.
When you start feeling tired, take breaks. Plan and schedule your vacations for the year. Take the necessary time off to reenergize yourself so you can be present for others.
If you feel you don’t know where to begin, seek out a relationship counselor, or in this case, a business coach. When you are in a rut, it is hard to see how to get out of it, but it is a lot easier for someone on the outside to help you get unstuck.
Most importantly have mini celebrations. If you reached a goal, no matter how small, go out and celebrate with your team.
Remember, your business is like a long-term relationship, and it's worth every effort to keep the love alive.