3 Reminders for When Running Your Handmade Business Feels Overwhelming and Exhausting
We all have those days—the ones where running your handmade business feels like climbing a mountain with a backpack full of bricks. Maybe it’s a tough customer, a slow sales month, or just the relentless pressure of wearing all the hats. Whatever the reason, it’s easy to feel like throwing in the towel. But before you do, take a deep breath and remember why you started in the first place. Here are three reminders to help you push through those tough days and keep moving forward with passion and purpose.
1. Remember Your "Why"
When the going gets tough, reconnect with your "why." Why did you start your handmade business in the first place? Was it to share your creativity with the world, create a more flexible lifestyle, or make a living doing something you love? Whatever your reason, take a moment to reflect on it. Your "why" is the anchor that will keep you grounded during the stormy days.
Example from My Experience: I started my handmade beauty business because I wanted to create unique cosmetics that would bring joy and confidence to the people who wore them. On days when things feel overwhelming, I read through the heartfelt reviews and messages from happy customers who’ve found something special in my work. It reminds me that what I’m doing is more than just making jewelry—it's making an impact.
2. Celebrate Small Wins (They Add Up!)
It’s easy to get caught up in the big goals and forget to celebrate the little victories along the way. Did you get a new wholesale order? Make a great social media post that got lots of engagement? Or maybe you finally organized your workspace after weeks of chaos. Whatever it is, give yourself a high-five and acknowledge your progress, no matter how small.
Example from My Experience: One of my small wins was getting my first feature in a local boutique’s newsletter. It didn’t lead to a flood of sales, but it got my name out there and built a new relationship. Celebrating these small wins keeps me motivated and reminds me that growth is often a series of small steps.
Don’t just focus on the destination; celebrate every step of the journey. Those small wins are the building blocks of big successes.
3. Embrace the Learning Curve
Every challenge is an opportunity to learn and grow. Running a handmade business is full of ups and downs, and every "down" is a lesson waiting to be learned. Whether it's figuring out the best way to handle a tricky customer or discovering a new marketing strategy that works, embracing the learning curve can turn frustration into empowerment.
Example from My Experience: I remember the first time I had to deal with a negative review. It felt like a punch to the gut. But instead of letting it derail me, I used it as a learning experience to improve my product descriptions and set clearer customer expectations. That challenge made my business stronger and more resilient.
Question for You:
What keeps you going on the tough days in your handmade business? Do you have a go-to strategy or mantra that helps you push through? Share your thoughts in the comments below—let’s support each other.
Running a handmade business isn’t always easy, but the challenges are part of the journey. By reconnecting with your "why," celebrating the small wins, and embracing the learning curve, you can turn those tough days into stepping stones toward a thriving business. Keep going, makers—you’ve got this. 🌟
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