How to work at your own pace in your creative business
Go at your own pace.
Have you followed the couch to 5k plan? The idea is that a new runner gradually builds up her stamina and confidence and, once she feels capable, the distances increase. The programme is simple and effective. However, many runners, like me, find they go back to week one over and over again because they need to work at their own pace. The couch to 5k plan isn't flawed; it just goes too fast for me.
Let's apply this to our work in our creative businesses.
Problem: We follow workflows and processes that are created by others
It is all too tempting to think that the way others work is the way we should work. Perhaps we come from a corporate background, where processes and workflows, written by management and directors, underpin everything we do. Then, when we set up our creative businesses, which we manage and direct, it can feel comfortable leaning into the checklists and how-to's that are already out there. We reason that it makes sense for us to follow established procedures, and there are so many useful resources available.
The problem with leaning in too far is that we forget who put the processes there in the first place, i.e., not us. Our business is moulded and shaped by us and us alone. So read the how-to's, take a step back, and create a version for yourself that fits what you need.
Problem: We listen to other peoples voices instead of finding our own.
This is a similar issue to the first one. I love joining group programmes and courses, zoom chats and Facebook groups, but I don't allow myself to get swept up in them. Why? Because the noise from other people's opinions and the way they run their businesses can quickly drown out my own. Their strategies are often general and don't take into account the uniqueness of my business. So I pick what I need and what I might find useful and avoid information indigestion.
Problem: we compare our work to more-established businesses
What’s that saying: don't compare your beginning to someone else's middle. I know it's a hard habit to break. We see other people's images of their colossal post-office runs or watch in awe as their Instagram accounts grow. Whatever the trigger, comparing ourselves to others is something we all do. We must remember our unique position. There is most definitely room for all of us (in fact, a busy market means there is demand), but you must find a way to be comfortable with where you're at today.
Why do I try to work at my own pace?
I've had years of slowly burning out, not recognising (or perhaps choosing to ignore) the signs. When I operate like this, all aspects of my health suffer. I plod, then I sprint and collapse. Then I drag myself back up, and I plod again. It's no way to live. Can you relate to this? Are you making changes to support your goals for your business? I’d love to know - comments are open!
PS - how naughty is my mum?!
Further reading/ listening:
The Keyboard CEO Manifesto by The Do Lectures