Balancing Business and Compassion in a World of Uncertainty

Three Ways to Build Your Business with Compassion

I feel like I’m on a tightrope, not sure which way to lean, yet I have a commitment to make and need to write this week’s Musings.

Maybe you’ve felt this way too – whether posting on social media or writing a blog article, caught between wanting to acknowledge the turmoil around us and finding something meaningful to share.

I can’t help but feel a bit overwhelmed by all that’s happening.

Less than two weeks ago, Hurricane Helene left its mark, and now Hurricane Milton has just raged through Florida, where some dear friends and clients live. It’s unimaginable having to deal with that double whammy.

And it’s not just the natural disasters.

In the U.S., the election cycle is flying misinformation around like confetti at a parade.

Economic conditions are causing many small businesses to struggle, and here in British Columbia, we’re facing our own provincial election where candidates seem to be more focused on mudslinging than addressing the real issues.

Then there’s the heartbreaking crisis in the Middle East – a stark reminder of just how fragile and interconnected our world really is.

With so much happening, it feels almost frivolous to write about marketing strategies or branding tips.

But here’s the thing: I also know that these Musings might be a source of encouragement, and you may come here to find ideas, gain insights, and maybe find a small spark of positivity that helps you push forward as you work on building your business.

So, how do I bridge this gap?

And how do I honour what’s happening in the world while staying true to my commitment to helping you build your business?

Perhaps the answer is in balance and intention.

I don’t want to gloss over reality or pretend things are fine when they’re not. But I also want to remind you that it’s okay to keep building and to keep dreaming, even when things feel like they’re spinning out of control.

With that in mind, I thought I’d share three suggestions you can use to approach your work when the world feels chaotic and uncertain:

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1) Acknowledge What’s Real

Take a moment to recognize what’s happening around you.

If you’re concerned about friends in Florida or feeling the weight of world events, don’t ignore it.

Acknowledging these things doesn’t make you weak or distracted – it makes you human.

And when we operate from a place of honesty, we’re better able to connect with others, whether they’re clients, friends, or colleagues.

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2) Focus on Your Circle of Influence

While you can’t control hurricanes or political turmoil, you can control how you show up in your business and in your life.

That being said, you should focus on the things you can influence, like delivering great services, being a supportive leader, or creating value for your ideal clients.

I find this type of focus can be quite grounding during times of chaos.

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3) Find Purpose in Your Actions

Even when the world feels unstable, remember that your work still has value.

Sharing your knowledge on social media, perhaps providing encouragement to those who are struggling, or helping out by volunteering as a representative of your business, it all matters.

Sure, it’s not going to solve global crises, but it can provide a steady foundation for those who turn to you for guidance.

And yes, it’s okay to both care about the world and about building your business! These things are not mutually exclusive.

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I realize words can’t solve every problem, but they can offer comfort, direction, and a sense of connection. With that in mind, here’s a wonderful quote from Maya Angelou:

“You may not control all the events that happen to you, but you can decide not to be reduced by them.”

Thank you for reading my Musings, and thank you for all you do to make this world a little brighter.

Together we are stronger.

To your business success, Susan Friesen