Business Education

Embracing the Pressure: What Small Business Owners Can Learn from “Pressure is a Privilege”

You’ve probably heard the analogy that running a small business is like walking a tightrope. There’s the thrill of balancing on your own terms, but also the pressure of the long fall looming below. However, it’s precisely this pressure that holds immense value. As tennis legend Billie Jean King once said, “Pressure is a privilege.” This phrase isn’t just an aphorism for sports; it’s a profound lesson that small business owners can embrace to better their companies.

Understanding the “Pressure is a Privilege” Concept

“Pressure is a privilege” means that the very presence of pressure signifies that you’re in a situation where you can make a difference. It indicates that you’ve earned a place where your actions matter. For small business owners, this concept can be transformative. Here’s how:

Validation of impact. The existence of pressure is an indication that your business is making waves. If no one cared about your products, services, or leadership, there would be no pressure. It’s a sign that you’ve reached a level where your decisions impact not just your future, but the future of your employees, customers, and community.
Growth catalyst. Pressure is synonymous with growth. Just as muscles grow when subjected to stress, businesses often expand and innovate under pressure. It forces you to think outside the box, pivot strategies, and push beyond comfort zones. Viewing pressure as a growth opportunity rather than a burden can lead to breakthroughs.
Resilience building. Encountering and managing pressure builds resilience. It strengthens your ability to navigate future challenges with more agility and confidence. This resilience is a critical asset for sustaining long-term success in the unpredictable landscape of small business ownership.

Practical Ways to Harness Pressure for Business Improvement

Now we know the value of such circumstances, let’s take a quick look at how you can apply this phrase to your small business and help your company succeed, starting with your mentality:

Adopt a positive mindset. Shift your perspective on pressure from a negative force to a positive motivator. Reframing stress as a privilege empowers you to tackle challenges with a proactive and enthusiastic approach.
Strategic planning. Use the pressure points as indicators for where strategic planning is necessary. If you feel pressure in financial management, marketing, or customer satisfaction, it’s a signal to reassess and improve those areas. Conduct regular SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analyses to stay ahead.
Enhance team dynamics. Pressure can unite your team if channeled correctly. Communicate openly about the pressures the business faces and encourage collective problem-solving. A shared sense of purpose can galvanize your team and improve collaboration and morale.
Continuous learning. View pressure as an opportunity to learn and grow. Attend workshops, seek mentorship, and engage in peer networks. Staying informed and continuously upgrading your skillset can alleviate some of the pressure by equipping you with the tools to manage it effectively.
Focus on customer feedback. Customer expectations can be a significant source of pressure. Use this as an opportunity to refine your offerings. Regularly seek and act on customer feedback to ensure you’re meeting their needs and exceeding their expectations. Satisfied customers can turn into loyal advocates for your business.

And last but not least, be sure to routinely maintain a good work-life balance. High pressure often leads to burnout if not managed well. Prioritize self-care and work-life balance. This not only keeps you healthy and focused but also sets a positive example for your team.

“Pressure is a privilege” is more than a motivational phrase; it’s a powerful mindset that can propel small business owners toward greater success. By embracing pressure, you validate your impact, catalyze growth, build resilience, and drive continuous improvement in your business. Remember, the presence of pressure means you’re in a position to make meaningful changes. Seize it, and let it push you to new heights.

Embrace the pressure, for it is a testament to your journey and potential. After all, diamonds are made under pressure.

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Out-of-Date Phrases Small Business Owners Should Stop Using Around Gen Z Employees

November 2, 2023 No Comments

Out-of-Date Phrases Small Business Owners Should Stop Using Around Gen Z Employees Gen Z is the first generation to grow up with the internet and social media. They’re also the most diverse generation in American history. As a result, they have a unique perspective on the world and a different way of communicating than previous generations who came into adulthood in a completely different landscape with some technology that’s now either gone or changed dramatically over the years. Some Phrases Harm Company Culture In the ever-evolving environment of the modern workplace, effective communication is paramount. However, small business owners often unknowingly cling to outdated phrases and terminologies that can create a disconnect, especially with Gen Z employees who are now a significant part of the workforce. As the first truly digital generation, Gen Zers bring fresh perspectives and expectations to the workplace, and using out-of-date phrases can undermine a business’s company culture in several ways. Phrases Entrepreneurs Shouldn’t Use Around Gen Z Employees Small business owners who want to attract and retain Gen Z employees need to be aware of this and avoid using outdated phrases. Using old language can undermine your company culture and make you seem out of touch. Here are a few out-of-date phrases that small business owners should stop using around Gen Z employees: “Think outside the box.” This phrase has been around for decades and has been used to death. It’s also vague and doesn’t really mean anything to most Gen Z people. Instead of telling your employees to “think outside the box,” give them specific instructions on what you want, along with constructive advice about how to deliver. “Synergy.” This word is often used in business jargon, but it’s actually meaningless. Yes, it’s a real word, but it’s also just a way to sound sophisticated and Gen Z employees have probably heard it too much. Avoid using the word “synergy” and instead be clear and concise in your communication. “Work hard, play hard.” This phrase is often used to justify long hours and overwork. However, Gen Z employees greatly value work-life balance and don’t want to sacrifice their personal lives for their jobs. Instead, focus on creating a positive work environment where employees feel valued and supported. “Face time.” Traditionally meaning spending time with someone in person, this phrase can create confusion with Gen Z employees. In the digital context, “Face time” now refers to FaceTime, the video-calling application. Using outdated meanings of terms can lead to miscommunication and make the business owner appear out of sync with contemporary tech culture. ”Out of pocket.” To Boomers and Gen X, this phrase means “unavailable” or, is used to convey when someone is out of the office. However, to Gen Z, it means something entirely different – “wild and unhinged” or “out of character.” In addition to avoiding outdated phrases, small business owners should also be mindful of their body language and tone of voice when communicating with Gen Z employees. Gen Z employees are more likely to trust and respect leaders who are authentic and approachable. So, what other phrases and language would you suggest avoiding using around Gen Z employees? Please take a moment to share your experiences and suggestions so others can benefit from your input! Go ahead, take a few moments, and contribute to the conversation! Do you want to grow your company in 2024 but you are not sure what is required to make that growth happen? Attend our “Planning for Growth” half-day workshop where you will get amazing details specific to your business for what’s needed from your marketing, your sales team, your production team, and your financial performance to enter 2024 with confidence you can indeed grow as planned. You will have the clarity you’ve always wanted but didn’t know how to create. It’s a $1495 value we are offering in November for only $99. Contact us for dates and times. We offer a 100% money-back guarantee if you don’t leave the workshop confident that you know what to do to grow your company in 2024. So, go ahead and contact us by phone or email! By phone 602-435-5474 By email: SteveM@WatersBusinessConsulting.com Don’t wait! This is a great opportunity to propel your business forward!

Small Business Owners in the Trades – Should You Provide Your Techs with Tools or Have Them Supply Their Own?

October 10, 2024 No Comments

Trades-based small business owners, from plumbers and electricians to HVAC and carpenters, often ask one question that sparks debate among newcomers and seasoned professionals alike: should you provide your technicians with tools, or should they bring their own to the job? This decision is far from trivial because it can significantly impact your business’s operations, finances, and even team dynamics. On one hand, supplying tools ensures consistency and control over equipment quality, but it comes with substantial upfront costs and ongoing maintenance responsibilities. On the other, having techs supply their own tools can reduce your overhead and potentially attract more experienced professionals, but it may lead to inconsistencies in work quality and create liability concerns. With this in mind, it’s important to take a close look at the pros and cons of each approach, exploring how this choice can affect your bottom line, workforce satisfaction, and overall business efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned trades business owner re-evaluating your current policy or even a newcomer to the industry trying to make an informed decision, this short but informative guide will help you navigate this crucial aspect of managing a trades-based small business. Tools of the Trade: Should Small Business Owners Provide Them or Let Techs Bring Their Own? When you’re running a small business in the trades, every decision counts. One big question you might face is whether to provide tools for your techs or let them supply their own. This choice can shape your business culture, affect costs, and influence your workers’ morale. So, what’s the right move for you? Well, it depends on several factors, some of which are more consequential than others. Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty and provide a few answers. Why You Might Want to Supply Tools Providing tools shows commitment to your employees. Just think about it: when you hand over a quality tool, it sends a message. It says, “I trust you to do your best work.” Plus, you can control the quality of the gear. If you’ve ever used a low-quality drill or a dull saw, you know how much it can affect the job. When you supply reliable tools, you ensure that your team has what they need to get the job done right. Consider this scenario: you have a new tech on your team. You give them top-notch tools. They feel valued and more confident about their work. That confidence can translate into higher-quality results and fewer mistakes. When you supply the tools, you can also streamline your operations. Everyone uses the same gear, which means less time wasted figuring things out. But, don’t forget about cost factors, either. Supplying tools means you’ll have to spend money upfront. Depending on your business size and the number of employees, this can add up fast. If your workers have their tools, you can save some pretty penny while also encouraging them to bring their best selves to work. The Case for Techs Bringing Their Own Tools On the flip side, letting your techs supply their tools can encourage a sense of ownership. When someone buys their tools, they’re likely to take better care of them (and not forget them on a job site). That personal investment can lead to pride in their work. Also, if your techs have their own favorite tools, they probably know how to use them best. This familiarity can speed up jobs and enhance quality. When the tools are owned by your employees, they’re the master of their domain. No need to seek approval from anyone – not even the boss. This makes their freedom palpable. Techs don’t have to wait for a painfully slow approval process. Plus, they don’t have to suffer delays to wait for the tools to arrive. All they need is right there, ready for them to pick up and put to use. Techs who own their own tools feel empowered to work on their term. They can dive into a project without bureaucratic hurdles or logistical roadblocks. Finding the Right Balance So, where does that leave you? It’s not always black and white. Some businesses choose a middle ground. For example, you might provide basic tools and let your techs bring specialized ones. This way, you maintain quality without breaking the bank. Additionally, think about offering incentives for tool maintenance. A tool bonus could encourage your employees to keep their gear in shape, whether it’s yours or theirs. The Team Factor Now, let’s look at team dynamics, which play a crucial role in this decision. If you have a collaborative environment, having similar tools might strengthen that bond. Everyone’s working with the same equipment, which can foster teamwork. On the contrary, if your crew thrives on individuality, let them shine with their personal tools. Moreover, open communication is key. Ask your techs what they prefer. You might discover a shared sentiment that could guide your decision. Creating a culture of inclusiveness not only builds trust but also enhances productivity. Consider the Following Whether you provide tools or let your techs supply their own is a complex choice, shaped by your business goals, team dynamics, and budget. Whichever path you choose, prioritize your team’s needs and consider the long-term implications. Remember, successful businesses don’t just focus on profit; they also invest in their people. In the end, your decision will set the tone for your workplace, creating a space where everyone can thrive. Want to Accomplish More? Do you want your company to grow faster and earn more while you spend more time with your family doing all the things you started your business to do? We can make that dream a reality. Give us 30 minutes and we will show you how to get your life back. Skeptical? Good! Put us to the test. You can call us for your free appointment at 480-636-1720, or, if you prefer,

The Essential Blueprint for Small Businesses Caught in Trade Wars

September 18, 2025 No Comments

Ever feel like global economics are playing a game of chess with your small business as the pawn? Trade wars can certainly make it feel that way. But don’t fret. Below is an essential blueprint to not just survive, but thrive, even when tariffs are flying and supply chains are strained. So, let’s get strategic and make these challenges work for you.