The Green Sheet Online Edition

May 22, 2023 • Issue 23:05:02

Inspiration

Walk on the sunny side

For many small business owners in the payments sphere, the green landscape of spring, blooming flowers and other signs of new life make it easy to focus on the marvelous abundance in the present moment. For some who have a to-do list that's far too long, have recently lost a lucrative residual stream, or are up against an impossible deadline, it can be a bit more difficult to appreciate the good things life has to offer.

However, the benefits of doing so are numerous. For example, appreciating the good things:

• Reduces stress and burnout: We all know how stressful and demanding running an ISO, consultancy or other small business in the payments sphere can be. Yet, taking even just a few moments daily to appreciate some of the good things refreshes a person's body and spirit.
• Enhances creativity and problem-solving: Focusing on the positive leads to SMB owners feeling better about their personal and business lives. This promotes relaxation that enables more productive brainstorming and creative solutions. This can lead to brilliant new products and services, as well as new solutions to niggling business challenges.
• Improves relationships with employees and customers: Along with other benefits, appreciating the good things in life typically improves an agent or ISO owner's demeanor, making them more approachable and more appealing to interact with. This does wonders for building ongoing rapport with customers and employees.
• Bosts productivity and motivation: A happy, positive consultant or other payments pro is likely to be motivated and productive. The time they take out to appreciate things pays off elsewhere, making it easier to focus, meet deadlines and accomplish goals. This contributes to overall business success, creating a positive upward cycle.

Getting out of a negative rut

Sometimes due to internal or external factors, maintaining a positive focus can become difficult. It can seem too challenging to turn things around. When this happens, it's possible to get into a better frame of mind by:

• Seeking professional help: If negative thoughts and emotions are overwhelming, it may be helpful to seek professional help from a therapist or counselor who is equipped to provide effective support and guidance.
• Practicing mindfulness: Meditation, deep breathing and visualization can help SMB owners become more aware of negative thought patterns and learn to shift focus to more positive things.
• Reframing negative thoughts: By challenging negative thoughts and replacing them with more positive ones, payments professionals can shift their perspective and improve their mood. Taking care of physical health: Exercise, healthy eating and sufficient sleep can all contribute to a more positive mindset.

Daily focus on the good things is a powerful life-enhancing tool, one to use even when not feeling any gratitude in the moment. It helps shift focus away from negative thoughts and emotions. The fast-paced payments biz is stressful. It takes effort to remain competitive while also preventing burnout. Being proactive before negativity can take hold will lead to better outcomes in business and in life.

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