Issue link: https://www.massageandbodyworkdigital.com/i/121374
#6 ResiLience Business ownership has its ups and downs. "One of the most difficult things to get comfortable with is the ebb and flow of clients," Krupsaw says. "It's both a money issue and a confidence issue." It's easy to get anxious when you have five clients cancel in the same week or when a client doesn't come back for a repeat visit after a fantastic fi rst session, but it's important to stay flexible and focused. Successful entrepreneurs bounce back quickly when setbacks occur, and a resilient attitude allows you to be resourceful. Krupsaw encourages massage entrepreneurs to take a long view. "Business development is a learn-asyou-go kind of process," she says. It's crucial that you believe in yourself and in what you're doing, and trust that things will work out. "It helps to know exactly where you are fi nancially so you can put challenges in perspective." An increase in your rent may feel overwhelming until you break it down and see it takes only two additional sessions per week to make up the difference. You can increase your capacity for resilience through consistent, compassionate self-care. That means eating well, exercising, and making time for spiritual practice. Most MTs recognize self-care is important, but often have trouble squeezing it into their schedules. "Working for yourself, there is always something more to do," Hardy says. "I've learned that I absolutely have to make it a priority to rest and recoup or my work suffers, and so do I." Hardy nurtures herself through hiking, meditation, yoga, and trading massages with another therapist on a regular basis. Social support boosts resilience, too. Find a mentor, coach, or mastermind group (see Mastermind Groups, page 67) who want the best for you and your business, Krupsaw says. Let them serve as both a sounding board and a cheering section, and avoid cynics and naysayers whose fear and negativity drain your motivation. Nurturing relationships raise each of us to a higher level. Fostering these attitudes of successful entrepreneurs, which are already within you, can help you embrace the business of building your practice so you can focus on what you love—providing nurturing, healing bodywork sessions for your clients. did You Know? wim hof, nicknamed "iceman," has run a marathon in 20-degree weather while shirtless, been immersed in ice for 1 hour and 44 minutes, and stood in shorts for 72 minutes at the north Pole. heidi smith Luedtke, PhD, is a personality psychologist, mom, and author of Detachment Parenting (heidi Luedtke media, 2012). her work helps others discover their unique strengths and build skills that enhance well-being and professional development. Learn more at www.heidiluedtke.com. do This Today! establish habits that will build your resilience. use social media to fill lastminute appointments and keep the books full, or reconnect with past clients and invite them back. www.abmp.com. See what benefits await you. 69