Summer slowdowns typically impact a small business. Employees and clients take vacations. Business quiets down and it can be tough to stay motivated.
In an effort to get inspired we asked 10 business leaders, “What is your top tip for staying productive in summer, from a personal standpoint?”
Check out their responses for making the most of summer slowdowns.
Set Manageable Goals
I try to form small, manageable goals for myself throughout the summer that have nothing to do with my work. Paint a cityscape, go on a hike, learn a new recipe. Finding other outlets to stay productive that doesn’t feel like work, aren’t overwhelming and can be done in small bits keep me motivated for longer.
Denise Gredler, Best Companies Arizona
Remember to Refresh
I like to focus on taking time to refresh in smaller ways. Vacations can be relaxing, but so can a nice cup of coffee, a morning workout, listening to a new podcast, calling an old friend–you get the idea. When I take the time to do something refreshing on a personal level, I find that my productivity level rises.
Stay Organized
I find that keeping my office organized and fresh boosts my productivity. Once my desk is clean and everything is where it should be, I like to add in plants and artwork to personalize the space. And you can’t forget to open the window–fresh air and sunlight will do wonders for your ability to concentrate and get work done.
Kenna Hamm, Texas Adoption Center
Work on That Project You’ve Been Putting Off
When business slows down, but you have the same workforce, a looming question comes up of how you can keep your team busy. These lulls provide great opportunities to turn to those business development projects you’ve had on the backburner for months. There will always be something for a small business to improve on, whether that’s an outdated process or a lackluster website. Once business picks back up, you’ll come out with a stronger foundation, better able to serve customers.
Plan and Prepare
Rely on your historical data to predict the ebbs and flows, as well as prepare for them. Have a reliable strategy in place to make up the difference.
Jaclynne Mulligan, Senior Digital Marketing Strategist
Maintain a Routine
Keep a normal routine. We are all creatures of habit. Wake up at the same time every day, get your exercise in, schedule specific times for work, and break your day into small achievable parts.
Joe Harlan, International Consultant
Develop Your Skills
Summer slowdowns or any downtime should be scheduled. The research has shown the adage “all work and no play” makes Jill/Jack dull” is true. However, it’s a great time to invest in developing new skills, nurturing professional networks, and looking for ways to remain a student of your industry. Agile thinking = productivity.
Janet Wise, VP Employer Experience Career Transitions
Remove Barriers to Productivity
Set a routine for work and for play. I strongly believe that being disciplined and organized makes it easier for you to stay motivated. Remove obstacles that weigh you down, so you can focus on the work that makes you feel most alive and productive!
Michelle Diaz, Teammate Experience Manager
Find Areas Where You Can Improve
Use summer to take a look at your business’ internal systems, processes, and find where you can improve. Maybe it’s a good time for a brand refresh, or to implement a customer relationship management tool (CRM), or updating other internal or external efforts. We work with some of our clients that are impacted by seasonality, using this time to work on the business.
Stephanie Riel, RielDeal Marketing
Focus on Yourself
Focus on your total self. Enhance your skillset with one of the plethora of online courses – many of them free – being offered. Get outside – take a walk or day road trip, adhering to social distancing guidelines of course. And be intentional in reaching out to family, friends, and others. Many of the casual interactions we enjoyed like going into the office, to our local Starbucks, or visiting others aren’t there right now. Being proactive in reaching out to others can help mitigate the social isolation we’re experiencing.
Rennie Leon, Director of Marketing and Communications