Promises, Promises!

One of the things that has become apparent to me in my business dealings, is that some people have trouble keeping their promises. “I'll get back to you with that information.” “I'll call you and see how you like xyz.” “I'll email you with my report.”

I know these people genuinely want to follow-up. They really did mean it when they said it. However, as an indie-business owner, there are many hats to wear. How do you do it all and remain sane? Or, keep the clients you do have or get new ones?

The answer is by learning to transform your stress. “Small business owner” and “stress” are often heard in the same sentence. I don't need to tell you what your stressors are – many of you are living them and may feel that it's normal to be experiencing what you are experiencing.

There is a vast difference between normal and natural. Normal can be something we adjust to, which may not be all that comfortable, yet we put up with it. Similar to a shoe with a worn-down heel which we know is there, but seem to do nothing about. I'm sure you have other examples: an appliance with a broken control or a door that always squeaks – irritating, but do we do anything about it?

Natural, on the other hand, is the way we were meant to be before stress took over, wreaking havoc on our lives. When we're under chronic stress, our ability to perform and to do well is impacted. It's like stuffing a plastic bag – it just keeps stretching, but sooner or later it tears. We just never know when.

Unless we learn to change our perceptions, other events, which we often describe as 'just life', trigger the same hormonal cascade, regardless of whether or not it is a true life or death situation.. What type of events, you ask? It could be anything from business worries, over-sleeping, hitting every red light when you're already late, or the kids are arguing, traffic...Multiply these events over time and they can show up as aches & pains, fatigue, frustration, lack of concentration, irritability, poor memory, inability to sleep well, health concerns, etc.

Our interpretation of these events wears out our nervous system and ages us. Cortisol, “the stress hormone”, is produced in response to how we think and feel. This is important to know, because as cortisol production increases, DHEA, “the vitality or anti-aging hormone” is reduced. Think of it like a teeter-totter. Cortisol goes up – DHEA goes down. So, if you've ever heard yourself say, “I feel and look old and tired”, you'll have an idea of what is contributing to that. The great news is that by learning how to change the way you interpret the events in your life, you are immediately making a positive change in your body.

How much business have you lost because you meant to follow-up, you really did, but something else came along that grabbed your attention, putting that intention to rest?

What is the solution? Start by noticing how you are in certain situations – what do you tend to do when you are stressed, upset, angry, or hurt? We can't change unless we know, and when we know we can take action. Once we take action, remembering to follow-up on those promises becomes much easier.

I know. I''m my own greatest success story!  Life and business does get better!