April 26, 2015

Reassessing the situation

2 weeks ago I snapped. The weather was beautiful...and I just couldn't handle the pressure of handling 4 shops any longer. So much work, it was/is always on my mind...feeling guilty about not being more successful despite all the stupid hours I put into it. I felt stuck, I wanted something to work just for once. And I just snapped.
I put my gardening clothes on and I mowed the lawn...and enjoyed it. I painted planters, I cut branches, fixed some borders. Then, when the garden was all clean and pretty, I got the garden swing cushions out...and spent pretty much the next 2 weeks in the garden. It was nice, restful. I didn't think of the shops. Oh I still shipped orders if something sold...but that was about it. And I was unusually happy and at peace.
And then when I was done doing ...well...nothing...I reassessed my situation. Do I keep working on those shops that are simply not working? Do I just give up? I  couldn't possibly do more hours. I need to change something but what? I have not reached any final decisions yet but I know I am not letting that eat my life away again.
I am closing my Storenvy shop. It'll be easier to look after 3 shops than 4.
I may lower my prices too. I know some of you will be horrified reading that...as it is poor business practice in general...but all my competitors are either cheaper or more expensive, being in the middle range does nothing for me...and I am not comfortable raising my prices.
I may also separate my plugs and kawaii jewelry. I know it's harder to look after several shops (duh...I just said I was closing one LOL) but I no longer feel those 2 ranges fit together. And maybe it'll just give me a new outlook on things.
Or I may just rob and bank and move to a warm places with the cats.
Oh and the lawn needs mowing again now...
Gardening done!

This went to the recycling park (2 trips)
Pepita helped.


I also painted the new planters

This garden is too big

You can see the garden swing where I spent most of my time

6 comments:

Stephanie Kilgast said...

Taking time off is crucial, so I'm glad you did it and enjoyed it too :)
You will think of something that works for you in the end.
In the meanwhile, many hugs!

immerlight said...

Very beautiful garden you have!!! It's great that you took 2 weeks off, more important to be in harmony and not worry much about etsy shops!

Unknown said...

Sometimes it's necessary to stop, take a break, breath and think.
Your garden is beautiful, you have done a wonderful work there! And probably that has helped to clear your mind. Hugs!

BHB Kidstyle said...

I am glad you got out to your garden and did something that you enjoy and has an instant good result. And I am glad you stayed out in the garden to do nothing just enjoy it. - That is gardens are for, really. I am sure this peaceful time will help you figure out which way to go forward.

StaroftheEast said...

Your garden is beautiful. It is indeed sometimes hard to go on when sales are slow and you work hard, I hope you'll find a good solution for yourself!

baahar said...

What a wonderful garden. I can understand how working on it calms you down. And Pepita seems to be enjoying it too :)