August is a funny month isn't it? There's all that promise of long summer days and rest when in fact, for many a micro, it can feel just a little odd.
Maybe it's your busiest time with no spare moments to stay connected or slow down. Perhaps it's your quiet time which brings concern and worry. Maybe you are resting and having a break, but with one eye on the 'new term'? Of course, if you're in your school age kids phase, it's all about the juggling too.
So what can we do to make the most of this month - enough rest when the sun comes out, enough work to keep us contented, enought connection to keep us sane and enough reflection to help us plan for the Autumn.
Here are my thoughts:
Accept the limitations - there will definitely not be enough time or good weather to do all the things you imagined so perhaps it's ok to go with the flow enough that you can both enjoy what you did plan and what you dodn't without the expectations of Instagram or your dreams.
Reduce the pressure - it's worth noting that your audience is likely as distracted as you. Social media can be a weird game in August too, so don't pile on the pressure if you're posting less or even taking a digital break.
Take time to connect - August means that there are less opportunities to network and connect with your fellow micros, so make the effort to seek out a little connection where you can. Can you head to the Forum or arrange a coffee near home. Great for ideas, fun and a little sharing.
Embrace the failures - in and amongst the juggling and low response rates, you may feel that things aren't working as they might. Embrace the month for what it is and avoid big launches or promotions until later in the month when your audience's heads are also turning to the Autumn.
Invest in a notebook - I do love Augut as a time for note taking and idea forming. Instead of always being in the 'doing' mode, I like to think about the Autumn term with a few relaxed notes and ideas. Avoiding a full planning session if one doesn't come naturally, but notes can make all the difference.
Invest in some self care - they say that the September to Christmas quarter is the biggest of the year for small business, so what do you need to do to be in the best form to make the most of that? Rest, exercise, fun, sleep, coaching or some good eating? Oh - and don't forget no.3!
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