"5 Key Strategies for a Successful Return to Business After a Burnout"

Let's face it, I took the winter off from markets. My mental health was struggling and I found it difficult to get up, take a shower, and start my day. But that's okay!!

We ALL have days, weeks, maybe even months in which we are not ourselves. We may have a past trauma or recurring issue that keeps popping up. I am here to tell you, firsthand, that it is possible to pull yourself from this mess and find what sparks joy for you. For me, it's crochet. For you, it may be sports, television, art, or other hobbies.

It's important for me to keep crocheting, keep doing what sparks joy for me. I know others may wince at the sight of me posting once more, or at the thought that I am NOT going back to college yet. But I don't care. I have learned more than I could've ever imagined with starting my small business. Building my resume with what speaks to me has done nothing but help my in my recent interviews for teaching assistant jobs. Last fall, I made well more than any minimum-wage job could've offered.

1. Focus on the GOOD

I have had some pretty phenomenal craft fairs since last August 2023. I choose to focus on the fact that I not only brought myself joy in crafting, but I gave joy to anybody I came across along the way. With free stickers and plenty of silly comments about my color choices, I found that I can make people laugh, even on some of their dark days.

2. Find ways to MOVE

Despite trying my best at the start of fall, by the end I was struggling to think of what to make next, antsy about sitting still so often. So what did I do? I found wonderful ways I can move my body again so I can get my much needed energy out! Once-a-week dance class, crochet club at a local library, and a once-a-month herbal meeting can do wonders for the brain and spirit. I am blessed to find ways to get connected within my community!

3. Find your PURPOSE

I knew from the beginning, my purpose is to bring chaos and fun into any situation. With my crochet, I add various colors and sizes to my huggable shapes. I know that, if I make something that makes ME smile, I know I can find someone out there who is open to feeling the same way.

4. Make a PLAN When it comes to making plans, I am an expert. When it comes to sticking to said plan, sometimes I fall short. This is why I now try to make all my plans "dummy-proof" with about 82 different options and possibilities for how things coud turn out. When I am prepared, I feel so much better.

Currently, my plan is to work part time and ramp up my business again. I know I can make this work if I apply and sign up for tables at events. That's my only hinderance at the moment. Signing up. But that's coming up!

5. Follow through

I am currently signed up for several upcoming events. This will ensure that my plan of continuing this adventure will have a higher chance of success. Every day I attempt to do at least 3-5 "hard" things. That could be calling for a psychiatrist, signing up for markets, attending my first crochet club, etc., whatever it means to you.

Thank you for continuing to check in on my journey and I can't wait to see where it takes us.