Summer is not only the time for sand, surf and sun. It's also time for small-business owners to take some time and think about how to work smarter. This is when it’s easier than at any other time to be innovative. Here’s are some advantages to the season and how you can capitalize on them.
Things slow down. Unless you run a water park or a restaurant in a vacation destination, business is likely to slow down somewhat in summer. Try taking a class—not necessarily one related to your business. Sure, if you’ve been wanting to learn to design a website, go for it. But that oil painting class you’ve had your eye on could be just as helpful in teaching you to see in new ways.
You spend more time outdoors. Warm weather means most of us spend more time outdoors. Being in nature relaxes us and stimulates ideas—more so than sitting behind a desk. Take a brisk walk outside when you’re stuck on a project. Better yet, move your laptop outdoors for a while. Try holding meetings or brainstorming sessions outside or even going offsite to a natural setting.
The days are longer. Unlike the hibernation feeling that can make us lag in winter, summer generally gives us more energy—and more time to use it. Allow yourself to feel how your natural rhythms change at this time of year. Try getting up an hour earlier than normal and use the time for creative thinking. Meditate on a business problem, free-associate ideas or think about long-term goals for your businesses. Capture your ideas in writing.
We take vacations. Are you taking a vacation this summer? Going to new settings is one of the best ways to generate ideas that can lead to big changes in your business. Take note of the businesses and trends you observe on your trip. Soak up the scenery, food and local crafts. You never know what will inspire your next great business innovation. Use your smartphone to capture photos, notes and thoughts about what you see as you’re on the go.
How does summer inspire you to be more creative?
Photo credit: Thinkstock