By Princess Jones
Starting and running your own business is a bit like starting a love affair. You can fall in love at first inspiration. You spend long hours contemplating your future together. And sometimes it ends in tears. Whether you’re in the first throes of love with your business or whether you’re in a long term healthy relationship with it, take a few minutes this Valentine’s Day to show it some love.
Pull Out That Business Plan
Remember your business plan that you wrote oh so long ago? Break it out. A business plan is the relationship equivalent of those first love letters. It’s time to reminisce about the beginning when you felt the burning passion of just starting out. How did you feel about your concept then? How has that grown stronger? And it’s always a good time to think about where you’re going and how you’ll get there.
Give Your Business a Makeover
Love has a way of making you want to spruce up yourself. You can show that to your business by giving it a makeover on all sorts of fronts, including your website. When was the last time you updated your headshot on your website? Considering refreshing your social media cover images and avatars. How about your business cards and marketing collateral? Once you start, I’m sure you’ll find plenty of places to update.
Blog About Why You Love What You Do
Does your business website have a blog? That’s a direct way for you to talk to your customers. Sharing what makes you passionate about your business is wonderful way to connect with your audience. This Valentine’s Day, why not write a love letter to your business. Explain what attracted you and what keeps you around. How has your business changed you? How has it made you better for loving it? Not in the mood to write a long piece? A tweet or a Facebook post can be short and sweet.
Show Some Love to People Who Helped You Make It Happen
No man is an island. And although you may have put a ton of blood, sweat, and tears into building your company, you also probably had a lot of help. Whether it’s from business partners, investors, or employees, it took a lot of hands to build what you have. You can show love with sweets, gifts, or just a heartfelt thanks.
Think About Taking the Next Steps
Love makes you want to commit. Whether that’s moving into together, getting married, or starting a family. It’s the same with your business. The more you love it, the more you want to do with it. Maybe you’re going to go full-time. Maybe you’re expanding your territories or launching a new product. It’s up to you to decide. Just remember that taking your business to the next level is a big step and it should be taken with care and love.
