This content has been borrowed and adapted from a blog post by The Design Trust – if you are an artist, designer or maker, we would strongly recommend following them on social media and signing up to their email bulletins.
This time of year is often a bit quiet. Getting ready for the summer holidays. No major events happening.
Have you gone into a bit of a slump? Or are you frustrated by the lack of sales in your business? Wondering about ‘giving up’ but also knowing that this is what you do?
There are quiet seasons and busy seasons. And although I would love to, I know that I can’t do anything about that. You can’t force it. You do need to go with the flow (of your market).
In fact: Become more aware of the seasons. Like a farmer who prepares the ground, plants his seeds, watches them grow, harvests, and let the ground rest again. Taking your time. Because those flowers won’t come up earlier because you want them to!
Many creative businesses (especially crafts) have a lot in common with farming.
This time of the year is quiet, so instead of frustration, start to enjoy it.
The Summer is a perfect time to …
- Take stock. You are half way through the year. What have you achieved so far this year? What do you need to commit to to achieving your goals for this year?
- Take a break. Not just by going on holiday but to give your mind a rest, as much as your body. To catch up on sleep. To spend time with friends. To go on an ‘Artist Date’ and feed your creative mojo again.
- Get your website ready for the Autumn. To work on key words and SEO. To improve your images. To rebrand even.
- Improve your business and marketing skills. To watch inspiring TED videos (instead of the World Cup?!). To listen to some podcasts with creatives or entrepreneurs. To read some books about social media or branding.
- Do your tax return! (Okay I am pushing my luck now … but it is a good time to get it all ready now and know how much you have to pay. You will feel soooo smug if you have done it!)
Make the most of this QUIET time of the year. Celebrate it! Embrace it.
[Cover photo by rawpixel.com from Pexels]
A&D Employability 