When the Fun Stops, Stop – Rediscovering the Joy in Your Business Journey
Up until October 2021, The British industry body the Betting and Gaming Council (BGC), used ‘When The Fun Stops, Stop’ as the industry’s safer gambling message. I wanted to breath some new life into this ‘tagline’, applying it to how some business owners feel about their businesses.
As we know, running a business often feels like a rollercoaster ride – exhilarating highs, daunting lows, and unexpected turns. Initially fuelled by passion and excitement, we dive headfirst into this adventure. But what happens when the fun stops? Does it signal the end, or is it an opportunity to pause and realign? In this blog, I wanted to explore why it’s essential to stop when the fun stops and how this pause can help you rediscover the love for your business.
Firstly, I’d like you to think back to when you first started your business. What drove you? For many, it’s the passion for their craft, the thrill of creating something new, or the desire to make a difference. This initial phase is often marked by excitement and a sense of endless possibilities. Everything feels new, and the challenges are invigorating rather than draining.
The thing is, as the business grows, so do its demands. What was once a passion project can slowly morph into a series of mundane tasks, financial pressures, and endless problem-solving. The very aspects that once brought joy can become sources of stress. This is a critical turning point – a moment where many business owners find themselves at a crossroads.
So, what do you do when the fun stops?
Crucially, you may want to reflect on how far you’ve come, before realigning your objectives around what you love about your business. As soon as you notice that the fun has dwindled, it’s time to pause. This doesn’t mean giving up; rather, it’s an opportunity for introspection. Ask yourself:
Why did I start this business?
What aspects used to excite me, and why have they stopped?
Are there parts of my business that still bring me joy?
This reflection is crucial. It allows you to identify what’s changed and why. Sometimes, the shift is internal – maybe you’ve grown, or your interests have evolved. Other times, it’s the business that’s strayed from its original path.
The key to rekindling your love for your business lies in reconnecting with your ‘why.’ Remember the vision that sparked your entrepreneurial journey. What part of that vision still resonates with you? Find ways to bring those elements back into your daily routine. It could be as simple as delegating tasks that drain your energy or revisiting a project that once excited you.
It’s also important to acknowledge that change is inevitable. Your business, like you, will evolve. Embracing this change can open up new avenues for joy and fulfilment. Perhaps it’s time to explore new markets, develop new products, or even change your business model. Staying flexible and open to change can reignite your passion.
In my view, when the fun stops, stopping to reflect isn’t just an option – it’s a necessity. It’s a chance to recalibrate and ensure that your business journey aligns with your personal joy and fulfilment.
By doing this, you not only enhance your own life but also rejuvenate your business, making it more vibrant, authentic, and ultimately, more successful. Remember, the ultimate goal is not just to run a business but to love the journey of growing it.
This approach to managing your business emphasises the importance of personal fulfilment and joy in your entrepreneurial journey, urging you to periodically reassess and realign your business with your passions.