Business Bah Humbug!

Are you turning into a “Scrooge”?

Ah yes. It’s that time of year when holiday goodies are everywhere, the smell of pine and gingerbread is in the air and people are in a cheery mood.

There is a multitude of peace and goodwill, right?

As an entrepreneur, you know that this is often far from the truth.

It’s more like a mad rush to organize taxes and budgeting, finish year-end projects and do everything necessary to get ready for the holidays.

Let’s face it.

The first few weeks of December are stressful. There is a lot to get done in a short amount of time so the stress builds – and so does the negativity.

Plus, we all know that this year has provided a host of extra challenges for everyone.

You may see it in clients, co-workers, associates, and many others around you (on Zoom meetings, via the phone and in person). People who were once thoughtful and great to work with become short-tempered, angry and just plain obnoxious.

And while you may notice this stress in others, what about yourself?

Take this quick “Scrooge Test” and Find Out!

• Do you hold the door for others or frantically rush inside and close the door behind you?

• Do you shy away from co-workers, friends and family members who are asking for charitable donations?

• Do you avoid helping co-workers with their projects for fear of not completing your own?

• Are you giving too many tasks to your assistants, interns and others right now?

• Are you creating issues and gossip to advance your own agenda?

While these may seem like things Ebenezer Scrooge from Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol” would do, they are going on right now… and without even knowing it, you may be guilty!

Stress Can Turn Us All Into Scrooges.

Yes, many of us are very stressed out and busy at this time of year. Some of us are even dealing with extreme financial and health issues and just trying to stay afloat. So even if you are having a rough time, know that others are, too.

Treat others with kindness… even if you feel horrible.

Sometimes, it can make you feel better if you just take a quiet moment to yourself and think about what you are grateful for right now.

If this doesn’t put you in a better mood, try to get help from others, talk to a friend, watch a funny video clip, or just get away from your usual surroundings for awhile.

While your work is important, it’s also essential to enjoy the season and the goodwill behind it.

After all, the holidays can be gone in the blink of an eye, and if you miss them completely because of work and focusing on the negative, you really may be a Scrooge!

Have a wonderful holiday season, and I wish you all the very best in 2021!