If you’ve been with me for a while, you know I talk a lot about how main street businesses can thrive, and how we need to save small businesses. Many local business owners are feeling the pressure right now and struggling. But I believe that these main street businesses are the backbone of our economy. They have the potential to shape communities and drive innovation.
I’ve heard many main street business owners talk about closing their doors during crazy times (like our current election year). I think that’s crazy! You as a main street business owner wouldn’t have been given this dream if it wasn’t meant for you. So, if you’re a business owner who feels overwhelmed by the economic climate, remember that the dream you’re carrying is there for a reason.
Here are three mindset shifts to help you move past fear and position your business for success.
3 Mindset Shifts to Move Past Fear as a Main Street Business Owner
1. Shift Your Focus from Chaos to Opportunity
It’s all too easy to get caught up in the challenges and chaos surrounding us. This chaos mindset can pull you into a cycle of fear and negativity, causing you to focus on all that’s going wrong instead of what might go right.
But when we shift our perspective to see opportunities rather than obstacles, we open up space for innovation and growth.
2. Shift How You Show Up
How you show up each day can set the tone for your entire main street business. We have control over how we present ourselves and lead our teams. In practice, this means walking into your business with confidence and a positive outlook. A leader who exudes negativity can spread that attitude to their team, making an already challenging situation feel worse.
Instead, shift your energy. Recognize the areas where you have agency – the things you can control – and bring that sense of purpose into every decision and interaction. When your team sees you stepping up, they’re more likely to follow suit.
3. Know Your Payoffs
When faced with difficult decisions, it’s essential to weigh the payoffs. Look at both sides: what’s gained by staying in the same spot and what’s gained by taking action? If sticking with the status quo brings no real benefit, maybe it’s time to try a new approach.
Sometimes, change feels risky, but even small actions can lead to learning experiences and growth. You may face setbacks, but each step forward brings insight, clarity, and eventually, success. Remind yourself that as a main street business owner, you have the power to make a meaningful impact, whether through improved processes, community engagement, or stronger leadership.
3 Strategies to Future-Proof Your Main Street Business
As a main street business owner, you may have heard the predictions about how small businesses are at risk of being swallowed up by big online stores. But here’s the thing: you have unique advantages of flexibility and innovation that set you apart from the big online retailers.
With the right mindset and a few key strategies, your business can thrive. Here are three essential shifts to help you succeed and strengthen your community as we move into 2025.
1. Embrace the “Phygital” Approach
The “phygital” mindset combines the best of physical and digital experiences to create a more connected experience for customers and employees. By blending better live experiences with the innovation of digital tools, you can stand out in a way that online retailers simply can’t.
To start, look for ways to use technology to enhance the customer experience. This could mean offering interactive in-store displays, QR codes, or even digital loyalty programs. For employees, phygitality could include digital training programs, or quick access to resources that enhance their skills and empower them to serve customers better.
2. Get Focused, Not Overwhelmed
Overwhelm is common, especially for business owners who wear many hats. But here’s a reality check: if you’re overwhelmed, it might mean you’re disorganized. Creating a structure with “theme days” can help you break out of the chaos and get clear on what needs to be done.
Here are some of my favorite strategies for managing my time:
Planning Days: Dedicate time each week to brainstorm, plan projects, and set priorities.
Execution Days: Follow through on your plans, taking specific actions toward your business goals.
Reflection Days: Set aside time to evaluate your work—what went well, what didn’t, and how you can improve next week.
These structured days provide focus and help you ensure you’re not just taking random actions but working strategically toward growth. Boundaries are key here too—protect your time and energy so you can show up fully for both your business and your personal life.
3. Know Your People and Align Their Strengths
Your team’s skills, strengths, and personalities matter to your main street business. Start by understanding what roles you need in your business to serve customers effectively, then look closely at the unique talents your team members bring to the table. Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach, focus on aligning people’s natural strengths with the areas in your business where they can have the most impact.
Shifting Your Mindset and Strategies as a Main Street Business Owner
If you’re a main street business owner, you have the power to spark change and keep your local economy thriving. Shift your mindset, embrace the “phygital,” get focused, and know your people. This won’t just strengthen your business; it will strengthen the whole community.
Resources Mentioned
💻 Schedule a Virtual Coffee with Theresa
📝 Uncover Your Biggest Blindspots with the Entrepreneur Quiz
⏰ Valuing Time: How to Keep Boundaries, Create Happier Teams, and Get Better Results
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