Times are changing—and fast. To keep the dollars coming in, we’ve all rapidly learned how to transform our work desks into video production zones and how to turn Zoom breakout rooms into intimate networking encounters.
The new abnormal didn’t just force us all to upgrade our skill sets. We’ve also had to shift our mindsets. Many of the entrepreneurial philosophies that would’ve helped you build a bustling business just six months ago can’t do the same right now. Instead you need crucial new ways of thinking that will help you stay profitable and thrive during a pandemic.
Julie Reisler an intuitive coach, host of The You-est You podcast and founder of the Life Designer® Coaching Certification program gave me three three counterintuitive strategies that helped her business stay at six figures despite the economic downturn—and can move the needle for your business right now, too.
How Counterintuitive Thinking Can Save Your Business Right Now | Stephanie Burns
1. Don’t Take Immediate Action, Be Still First
“While taking action towards your goals is important, you could be missing a very important step—especially during a time of higher anxiety and fear,” advises Reisler. “You need to actively take time to be still and quiet your mind. If you don’t, you risk creating your business from a reactive, negative state. Being in this ‘fight or flight’ state of mind can drown out your brain’s best ideas, intentions and business offerings. But finding calmness will aid your receptivity to new inspired ideas.
“I recommend starting with a simple goal of sitting daily in quiet for five minutes. Another tool is to take short pauses throughout the day before taking any action. Pause, take three expansive deep breaths and find something to authentically feel grateful for. These short stillness pauses will help you to stay out of the danger zone of reactivity and will give you space to think and act from a place of calm, inspiration, connection and creativity.”
2. Rely on Your Intuition, Not on Ever-Changing Facts
Trying to keep up with all the business shutdowns, phased re-openings, and financial stimulus rollouts is like trying to keep your balance on constantly shifting sands. In the midst of this we try to rely on our minds to make smart business decisions. But with all the “facts” in flux, relying on your brain to do the heavy lifting at work simply won’t do. We need our intuition and our gut more than ever.
“Science actually shows that your body processes information through your heart first, known as ‘heart intelligence,’ before it gets to your brain,” notes Reisler. “An easy technique to help you tune in to this is to do some intuitive writing while incorporating heart-centered breathing and using your body wisdom.
“To try this, grab a journal or digital pad and ask yourself a question you’ve been overthinking. First, brain dump all of your concerns. Take a few slow, deep breaths. You’ll want to tap into a natural feeling of care and gratitude, which will connect your brain to your heart. Then write whatever comes to you without any editing. Notice the difference in what you write after slowing down. Every time you flex your intuition muscle, you build a greater connection to your body wisdom and inner guidance.”
3. Come From a Place of Service, But Still Charge
“At the beginning of quarantine I offered a group coaching program to support my clients struggling with anxiety and fear. I debated whether to charge a fee and I decided to offer a very reasonable package for the two-week support group,” says Reisler. “When two women condemned me for charging during a crisis, I had a moment of sheer panic and doubt. But then I realized that someone not willing to pay a reasonable fee is not one I’m best suited to coach.
“By charging a nominal fee, I ended up attracting a fantastic group of eager individuals ready to show up daily and do the self-work. Many have stayed with me both as clients and have since joined my coaching certification program.
“Being heart-centered and empathic during a challenging time is crucial. Being of greater service and helping your clients navigate through rough waters is honorable. There are instances when you’ll want to donate your time or services for a cause you believe in or to give back,” notes Reisler. “You might want to lower your rates, create special packages or payment plans. Just don’t confuse being a giver with not charging for your services. You must still get paid for your work. Even during a pandemic. Remember your worth and the investment of time, energy, studies and resources it takes to create your business. You wouldn’t expect your doctor to be free during a pandemic. Don’t value your own livelihood any less.”
