It’s fair to say that life hasn’t been the same since March, and as Melbourne endures another lockdown, Australian businesses are pivoting, braving, and adapting.
But don’t take it from me …
I took the questions directly to sources to find out how these amazing business owners have pivoted through the challenges brought on by coronavirus, and why even in the most difficult of times, self-care is something we must all remember.
Camelia Ghioghiu – Owner of CAMELIA Melbourne
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
The secret is to never give up and know that this isn’t forever. The first time we went into lockdown I remember feeling very low. I closed my business for 5 weeks, however, I still went into work every day and became more creative than ever before. I soon realised that it was more of a blessing. I was gifted time. I had time to cook as well and now I am five kgs heavier but that’s ok. I am healthy and happy. Rinse and repeat for ISO 2.0
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Make an effort just like it was any other day. We are not in prison. We can still go for walks and enjoy nature and the simple things in life. Make the most of everything! Stay connected with your friends and family. Staying positive is a state of mind. You have to decide every single day that you will be ok and that you will have a good day. Mind over matter is very powerful. It is something you decide and you are in control of. Know that this isn’t forever and who knows you might even rediscover yourself. I know I have,
To me, more than anything else, self-care is about the way you talk to yourself. You are what you think.
Mirte Van der Lugt – Chief Brand Officer at Hey Tiger
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
For us, we’ve focussed on connecting with our audience, who are at the heart of everything we do. The one thing that is so unique about this time is that we’re all in the same COVID boat. Sure, some are sailing the waves on a fancier ship than others but everyone, no matter who you speak to, is anxious and living in a world of uncertainty.
Many of us are scared and overwhelmed, and I believe where Hey Tiger has done well is staying connected to our audience on a human level. Especially in the beginning of the pandemic when we temporarily closed to ensure the safety of our team and to make some changes to our space and offering (we have since reopened and are so excited that the chocolate is flowing again in our kitchen!).
Our DM’s are always flooded with real and honest conversations and we make it a priority to respond to every like, comment, email and DM. We always want to bring value to our audience. Whether that is through our delicious choccies or through our content that brings some light to their day. Cause let’s be real, we can all use a little sweetness right now.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainty?
I think we need to keep reminding ourselves that none of this is in our control. I believe that accepting this is one of the biggest and most important things to keep your sanity throughout this time. It is hard, and it’s ok to have a good old cry every now and then, but ultimately we should remind ourselves that this is an unprecedented situation that none of us mere mortals have the ability to change.
For example, I’m currently pregnant. My entire pregnancy has been predominantly in ISO and my family is back in The Netherlands. I have had to accept that my beloved parents won’t be there for the birth nor will they meet my son, their first grandchild, until COVID is behind us. That’s hard. Real hard. But since I can’t change things, it would be useless for myself and my baby boy to stress about it.
What I can do is be grateful for what I do have. The mere fact I still have both my parents and that I hold such a strong relationship with them is a privilege by itself. Ask yourselves, what are you grateful for during this time?
CAZINC THE LABEL
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
Don’t sit back and watch Netflix. Think out of the square and see what else is available to you. Oh, and don’t take your foot off the pedal.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
100% taking time out for yourself! I do a lot of meditation, pilates and reading good books. Being kind to yourself means you can be kinder to others.
Aurora Spas
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
There is no debate that the Spa and Beauty industry has been hit hard in the last 6 months. Aurora as a business has been operating for over 20 years and with this comes experience and acknowledging the importance of having strong internal structures.
We have built a loyal client base; a strong positive reputation where we stand together. We are not a team but a family and with the personal philosophies and beliefs we have within our Aurora Family, we cant help but spread this over to the business and its structure. Of course, it is a tough time, but we are tough. We are also so blessed that our founder is a Wellness Coach and with that comes great wisdom, advice and leadership which helps support the team which overall helps the business flourish.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Having intentional pauses, Me Moments, those Daily pauses in the day that help support our health and wellbeing. Right now, it is so important to create those easy wins in the day for example:
1. Make the bed, its simple and a great start to the day, a task that is complete and something you can appreciate at the end of the day.
2. Move your body, exercise, yoga, walking in the fresh air. Strength work.
3. Something as easy as having a shower- I use our ASPAR Grapefruit and Seaweed invigorating body cleanser as way to introduce clarity and focus to my day. I take three deep breathes in and out whilst using the cleanser.
The evening is your time to switch off and unwind. I use our ASPAR thermal balm and apply to the back of my neck as it helps relax my thoughts and those tight muscles that have had working all day.
Technology switch off is so important, setting a time to put all the outside noise such as social media, aside and having this moment for you. You can meditate, set an internal mantra or just read your favourite book.
Having these moments, these bookends of your day is an effective way of inspiring positivity, calming the mind and celebrating those small wins in a world where we feel uncertain. Don’t be hard on yourself and find the moments in the day to celebrate. We are in this together. x
Robyn Djelassi – Head of People & Operations at Vinomofo
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
Vinomofo’s secret sauce has always been our extraordinary people. Our focus hasn’t shifted from offering our mofos great products at a great price, but we have managed to pivot the marketing of our deals to offer the right products at the right time to new and existing mofos. We are using smart analytics and a variety of new mediums including text sends and partner vouchers to reach our tribe. Behind it all though, is our talented and passionate team.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
My secrets to self-care are routine and exercise! With two children to homeschool and a job I love, life is hectic. Routine makes the world feel less chaotic and without exercise, I wouldn’t function at my best. By making the time for a walk or run every day, I am making the time to reflect and do something that I love.
THIRD BOI
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
I think it’s just about staying positive and looking for new opportunities as you always would in business.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
You can’t help someone to shore if your boat is sinking. For me I always want to take care of others but it’s important to block the noise if people around you have a negative mindset, this just brings you down!
Kyla Kirkpatrick – CEO of Emperor Champagne
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
I actually think this is an amazing time to pivot, in fact i think this is the time to push the boundaries on what you think you can do. I had a couple of weeks of oh shit. I lost a lot of money and a big part of my business but I pivoted pretty damn fast after that and I put myself in a really good position. I’ve spent the last 3 months completely re-engineering my business from the bottom up and being very strategic about my next steps forward. Although I’ve probably done less I’ve been far more effective in what I can achieve in the long run. This is an awesome time to think blue sky. Throw out what you were doing before and start to think as if you had a completely blank canvas to work with. You’d be amazed at what you can achieve in a short space of time With a completely new view on the world.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
I think everybody is handling this period uniquely and that’s totally OK. I’ve never been a big one for self-care but I have been a little kinder to myself over this period. I am not setting an alarm at the moment so I’m not forcing myself to get up according to the clock. Generally we don’t set alarms when we’re on holidays but I actually think it’s really healthy to let the body wake when it wants to wake, peacefully and naturally. I hear a lot of reports about ceo’s getting up at ungodly hours. I’m a CEO and a busy woman and I run a global business but being rested is so important for my effectiveness and that means waking when the body is ready to wake! Its a luxury im indulging in at the moment. Im also getting a massage every weekend instead of travelling for shows.
Daniel Gangemi – Owner of The Hashtag Coffee
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
During these challenging times it is important to remain positive and focussed. Running a business will always bring challenges and being able to adapt is the key. This means we need to recognise what is no longer viable and diversify. We need to remind ourselves that many factors are out of our control and in that, find the ability to overcome. Using social media to keep connected has been more important than ever, it’s way to promote the business and create positive content, which is crucial. I endeavour to anticipate and make changes accordingly. Therefore, being flexible, being able to adapt, and maintaining business resilience has enabled continued success in my business.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
As much as the situation is serious in a business sense, I try not to lose sight of what really matters in my life. It is said’ we are all in this together’ and this sense of community helps me find the strength and the positivity to stay active and healthy. I stay connected with family and friends. I make a conscious effort to focus on all the things that I have and that I can control in my life. I normally have a very busy life and I have learned to slow down a little. Self – care is essential. Like on an airplane when oxygen is released: if you don’t make sure you are ok how can you help others?
Annabelle Lumba – Owner of ALPHA + OMEGA SKIN
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
The unprecedented times has presented both challenging and unexpected situations which are in turn both a blessing and not so much a blessing. People can look at this situation and think entrepreneurial – pick back up those hobbies and turn it into a business, a chance to invest more time in perfecting the craft of the product or stay lamenting. Of course, there are circumstances which sadly, some people aren’t in a position to do so and I can only pray for breakthroughs for them during these times.
Firstly, to know the direction of where your heading is to know what drives you. The craftsmanship, the purpose and why.
You have to love your dream, the good and the bad that comes with it. Accepting failure and adversities to teach you, to strengthen you and the business and wanting that goal even more to flourish.
You have to live and breathe what your creating and envisioning, otherwise, what is the point? The passion and the love won’t shine through if you don’t have these capabilities and gifts.
I’ve always loved anything beauty – hair, make-up, fashion, skincare, but what stood out to me the most and what I was drawn to was selfcare and skincare. I needed to study the anatomy and physiology of the skin, completing a beauty therapy and beauty services course. Then I went onto studying three skincare formulation courses. I’m a visionary and creative, so I love experimenting and making things. I knew from the moment I made my first cream, this is what I wanted to do and channel my energy into.
Everyone has a calling and purpose, you just need to find what drives you and turn that into a business (if that’s what your goal is). With that being said, a unique one. What haven’t others created in the same industry that you should start? That’s what I’m always looking for. The aesthetics of the product and the formulation. To stand out is to be different and often leads to success.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Selfcare starts inwardly. Working on the inside of you – emotionally, mentally and spiritually is the most crucial point of the best selfcare regimen you can ever invest in. Drink 2ltrs of water, go for a walk, get sunshine, eat your fruits and veggies, pray, meditate, laugh, find the good in everything, keep learning and stop investing meaningless time on social media. This will give you the glow that no skincare can! What’s happening on the inside of you definitely reflects on your outward appearance.
During these unprecedented times, gyms aren’t open, money is tight and mental health problems arise, but there are ways around it that don’t cost you. Sunshine is free, parks are free, fruit and veg are cheaper than fast foods and praying/meditating only costs you time, and that’s the most valuable to me.
I’ve been through dark times, and I can honestly say that practising these habitually will lead to a brighter outlook in life.
So make sure you are getting your daily dose of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, prayers, vitamin D and exercise. These release a “happy emotion” and triggers positivity called endorphins, building your self-esteem up daily, strengthening your mind, body and soul enabling you to have confidence in fulfilling your purpose.
Joanna French – Founder of Shanghai Suzy
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
This has been such an unprecedented time, we’ve been in business for 7 years now and we’ve never experienced a rollercoaster-like this and I doubt we will again in the future! But I think it’s comforting to know that we are all in this together somewhat. We’ve made certain changes internally in regards to hand sanitising and seating arrangements etc but other than that we’ve really tried to keep things going with some sense of normality – and positivity. Communicating and supporting each other through this challenging time and keeping things in focus and perspective. As a small business I feel that our customers really appreciate transparency – so just being as open as possible with everything, orders, delivery times, stock delays etc. – we are all doing the best we can given the circumstances.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
I personally have a 2-year-old, a 4-year-old and I’m 20 weeks pregnant, I have my business and we’re mid-renovation so I have never been busier or been juggling so many balls. I find that it’s the simple things that make a difference when it comes to self-care, helping to decompress which is so important for our mental health. For example, having a bath at the end of a long day, or spending some dedicated quiet time reading a book or doing whatever it is that you find relaxing. The power of a good night’s sleep (sometimes easier said than done with small kids – lol). Taking pleasure in the simple things like the sun on your face during a walk, those first few sips of a coffee, or simply smiling at a stranger. Being mindful and taking everything one step at a time so as to not get overwhelmed or anxious. Just being gentle with ourselves – we are all doing our best. And if all else fails, take a deep breath and remember that this too, shall pass ✨
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
Yes, Covid-19 has been tough for many people and businesses. For me, it’s all about my mental health … Keeping a level head in a time of crisis is key for success. If you think you’re going down with Covid – you will. If you think you’ll win the battle against Covid – you will. I understand some industries have been hit harder than others, but there is always opportunities in times of darkness. Taking time to reflect on what you want and how you can pivot during tough times, will only make you stronger and wiser long term.
When Covid hit earlier this year – my mind went blank for 2 weeks! It was scary – I watched 45 % of my business disappear in 5 days … But I had clients that stood by me and I knew I would push through. My team also depended on me to pull through. This wasn’t just about me …The support of the Government has been great as well and I am now really preparing the business for post Covid success. You have to remain on guard at the moment especially being based in Melbourne- but what it really means is – don’t give up. There is always a solution – but yes it does mean hard work.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Self Care occurs on many levels … Your mind and your body … Physically and Emotionally. Exercise is really important right now and keeping in touch with friends and family. The simple things are the secret to self-care. Taking time out to do the things you enjoy and being kind to yourself if you don’t always achieve what you set out to achieve.
I’ve been wanting to read more – so I started …
I wanted to exercise more so I’ve found some great on-line sessions to help me through Covid.
I really need to learn to cook – so that’s my next chapter … I have limited patience so I think cooking will help me achieve this
The main thing is to also keep talking to people about how you are feeling – if something is on your mind talk about it and get it out … If you are worried about something talk to people about it – don’t bottle it up! The mind is a very powerful source that can take over your body – so keep that mind in check and look after your body with exercise and a balanced diet.
Reaching out to people can be so calming in a time of uncertainty bc you start to realise we are all experiencing the same issues.
June Brown – Owner of LJ’s SKINCARE
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
I think being genuine in my connections with everyone thru my business, and being honest and up front about what I am offering, what kind of product it is, and that I am contactable for anyone who wishes to talk to me about what I am selling.
Also genuinely believing in what you sell is very important, as that passion comes through to others.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Looking after yourself in these times is really important, you need to give yourself that love and care, pamper yourself and allow yourself little luxuries (which, of course you have time for now!). Eating well and staying healthy with your nutrition, trying to get out (even in the back yard) to exercise,and staying mentally healthy as well … helping yourself and others to stay positive in these uncertain times.
Niccolo Coffee Melbourne & New York
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
“Get the coffee to the people”.
This has been Niccolo’s Melbourne and NY focus and goal since day one of the lockdowns. Taking care of our clients, their venues, their staff, and supporting them in any means possible or necessary. This magnitude of support has also been mirrored by our clients to us. Everyone’s in this together, and it takes each and every one of us to keep pushing.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
Taking the time to step back from the noise and breath. Enjoying the aspects of life that we forget aren’t taken away from us, for me this is music. Whether it’s in the work van during deliveries, at home on the weekend enjoying a morning coffee, or in front of the laptop, there’s something always playing.
Communication – This has to be my biggest advice for anyone, keeping the lines of communication open with those around us. I’m very fortunate to be in a position where I’m surrounded by colleagues that are always here to support and help me, and the communication within the Niccolo team has definitely turned up a few dials. Mental health is so important right now and I can only advise everyone to reach out if they ever need to.
The Niccolo team shares their delicious coffee on the other side of the world with their beautiful Ground Support Cafe on West Broadway.
During these times what do we think is the secret to pivot and shine as a business in NYC?
Responsibly providing coffee for the locals from a very well hygienically kept cafe, the support from the Soho locals have been incredible. We have also provided guidance to all Niccolo clients in NYC to do the exact same, about 50% stayed open the entire time and all are back open now.
The attention to detail we have always provided when coffee making, the love, and the care. Paying huge attention to Hygiene – Cleaning/Disinfecting hourly logs, sanitiser, temperature screenings.
- No Subway.
- Bike rides to and from work.
- Social Distancing
- PPE (Personal Protective Equipment).
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during these times?
- Personally I am having half of a lemon and a homemade ginger/turmeric extract in warm water every morning before leaving to work. This is the number 1 rule for my wife and I.
- 3 Yoga sessions a week at home, daily deep breathing sessions, and a lot of meditating has been a huge part of staying mentally healthy in times that no much is making sense.
- A lot of Vitamin C is also a big part of our everyday. I am also washing my hands about 100 times a day too, no joke.
- Keeping fit by riding from my home in Brooklyn to work in Manhattan and back home every day 20km a day on a bicycle.
- Caring and loving for family, for friends, for my teams both in Australia and the US as well as my home with my wife and my cat.
- Continuing to be a nice human being and remaining positive that all this will be over and we’ll all be better than before.
Keep up the Vitamin C and Ginger or Ginger Turmeric extract, yoga, breathing session, and meditation, stay positive and …. Be nice!
Remembering the one good thing about all this madness – Mother Nature is benefiting 🙂 nowhere near as many airplanes in the sky or engines on land! The birds are singing louder and we can only benefit from all this when you look at it this way.
Rosie O’Donnell – Owner of Astro Vino
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
Covid-19 has been a horrific shock for many industries and individuals, worldwide. In some ways, this event has truly served to highlight vulnerabilities we never knew our businesses had. Our ability to see the lessons exposed subjectively rather than emotionally is the only way it seems bearable to move forward. The quicker we can get ourselves out of panic-mode to approach the situation proactively, the better. It’s the operators who have reacted quickly – to form revised plans or reimagine their existing offerings, those who haven’t just let what’s happened, happen – who will come out of this stronger and wiser for it, who’s businesses will be more resilient as a result.
If there’s one silver lining through this, it is the marketing power of community in a crisis. The ‘all in this together’ message is a unique and successful one. Digital businesses, and those who have modified to include an Online element, are going to be those best poised to ride this wave of uncertainty. Social visitation and engagement have remained high throughout, so crafting the right marketing message has never been so important. Pivoting, in my mind, means having the ability to sit within the current climate and ask yourself what your business can do to help its customers and its community because tact is paramount.
The other key theme in all this has been the ‘good news’ trend, we’re all feeling beaten down by bad news, that rays of sunshine, positivity and good vibes are needed now more than ever. So if you have this element to your business, now is THE TIME to market it!
Brands existing on the digital landscape also have the ability to react and tailor their messaging quickly – pivoting has almost been exclusively digital – with bricks and mortar business getting on board out of sheer necessity.
Astro Vino has been uniquely placed, in that it is a service-centered largely around the sentiment and self-care, with an exclusively digital presence. But even within that, we’re looking to better service our customers through this, in evolving what was an occasional/gifting offering to include a personal consumption subscription. With all the restrictions and people not being able to enjoy their social lives as they typically would, so they’re wanting to be able to feel good at home – and we’re only too happy to help.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
It’s often taught in yoga, to first take care of yourself so you can be equipped to take care of others. So if working by that logic, practicing self-care is actually the most selfless thing you can do. My colleague Cat has taught me that you can’t pour from an empty cup, and this is so true – now more than ever. It’s so easy to be ‘on’ all the time, particularly in a state a crisis. But running on adrenaline all the time is the quickest way to burn out – and speaking from my recent experience in running a start-up – where the only asset you have is your time, it’s easy to get into the habit of stretching yourself to the limits in the belief that it will get you ahead, where is will only wear you out – and worse, deplete you to the point that you can’t produce the quality of work you need to get your business ahead. Working from home, as many of us are, adds another layer to the challenge of separating yourself and creating effective work/life balance.
My advice – and it’s very much a work in progress – is to compartmentalize as best you can. Boundaries are important – as are days off!
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed, switching off technology is the quickest way to clear your mind. If there is a pressing deadline, just turn your phone on airplane mode – put it in another room entirely – so you can focus on what you need to deliver. It is way to easy in this modern-hyper-connected day and age to distract yourself by emails/Instagram/banking/anything else other than what you should really be doing. And when you stressed or anxious about something you are far more likely to procrastinate, which in turn will only make you more stressed when you realise how much time you’re burned trying to distract yourself from the task at hand. Just switch off and start – you’ll feel better.
- Get physical every day, preferably outside. I’m ‘lucky’ enough to have a dog to keep me honest when it comes to exercise. But how underrated are endorphins and fresh air when it comes to combatting stress??? Fresh air is the best way, I feel, to get perspective. So having some form of active routine to balance long periods on the laptop has been a game-changer for me. Just find something you enjoy, shout out to @shannondooley84 at Retro Sweat!! Your body thanks you, your mind thanks you, you sleep better, and you can suddenly cope with whatever life throws at you. So for your own sake, make exercise a priority and keep that commitment to yourself. And don’t overthink it.
- Lastly, a bath and a vino to unwind can make the world of difference. A bath is like liquid sleep!
Kim Charlton – Owner of Studio Pilate High Street Armadale
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
I don’t feel there’s any secret. I have tried to remain very client-focused, trying to consider the various situations we find ourselves in. How can I help? Who needs my support? What can I offer that will support those who are really doing it tough? It stopped being about making money & rather about caring for others. This gave me a purpose that took my mind off the stress worrying about what I can’t control. Loneliness has been tough for many people, so staying connected as much as possible has been my priority.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
My secret for self-care – meditation, making a routine, challenging myself. I did a 21-day Deepak Chopra meditation course, and a 10 day Wim Hoff challenge.
I focused on small luxuries like taking a bath, lighting candles, burning beautiful oils, all things I love but have forgotten to do, and practiced gratitude on my daily walk. Finding pleasure in the small things that money can’t buy. I could go on here as I did so much self-care that was much needed before Covid.
Lavinia Goulas – Director of The Gift Society Melbourne
www.thegiftsocietymelbourne.com.au
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
Find your silver lining! Go back to basics, go back to your notes when you started your business, and reflect; find your silver lining. Use this time to refine/retune your business goals, structure, products, and marketing audience. Lastly, connect with other businesses. By the time this pandemic is over, you are ready to execute your target audience.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
I personally keep reflecting on my old notes and look back from where I began. This has helped me open my mind to target different audiences as my main market audience is not as high demand as it would normally be. Secondly, feedback positive and negative to improve. I need to improve on areas so I can execute better when this is all over. So I am kind of taking this is a trial an error period without putting pressure on myself.
NARISSARA THE LABEL
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
I have had time to think about what is important in my life. With the uncertainty of not knowing where the world is heading, I decided to design a range of beautiful clothes as well as promote happiness and positivity. I’m providing an escape in the form of retail therapy and to remind customers that just because we’re at home doesn’t mean you can’t look your best.
2. What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
- Taking time to yourself to do yoga and meditate to reduce stress
- Not pressuring myself as this time is unprecedented
- Making sure to make small rituals such as drinking water and keeping active
- To use the time we’ve been given to grow and evolve, in a way it’s provided a small relief from the fast pace of normal life and the opportunity to do things we couldn’t do before such as reading
- Keeping my mind busy and always trying to learn something new
CHARLES ROSE
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
As a luxury brand, it is crucial for us to keep our customers in mind at all times, however the COVID-19 crisis definitely introduced some new challenges. It was important for the business to remain in touch with, and available to, our clients, while still abiding by regulations put in place.
Being forced to shut our doors temporarily, we used the time to fast-track several initiatives, focusing on a brand-new website, social media content, and engaging online presences. The result was an online experience more aligned to our in-store offering, which came with an influx of enquiries and consultations once we were able to reopen.
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
During uncertain times we feel it is important both to feel supported and encouraged by the people you engage with, and to provide that support and encouragement in return.
Everyone deals with troubling situations in their own unique way, but having a caring support network, both socially and professionally, has enabled the Charles Rose team to return to work refreshed and energized.
Honest, open and regular communication has always been valued, and removes as much of the worrying uncertainty from an already troubling situation as possible.
Philippa Clarke – Owner of Since I Found You
During these challenging times, what do you think is the secret (or what has been the secret for you) to pivot and shine as a business?
As soon as we were in “lockdown” we closed our store as it felt important to do the right thing and keep our small local community safe. Once it was deemed safe to be out and about but keeping our distance, I moved my store around so that social distancing was easier, provided hand sanitiser at the store entrance and made sure initially we only had two people in at a time. While we were closed, I offered great online discounts and safe home delivery locally – I had a wonderful response from my loyal lovely local customers
What is your secret to self-care and what advice would you give others to look after themselves during times of uncertainly?
I am not sure I really have a self-care secret – I do try and walk in the sunshine most days to get a boost of vitamin D – hug my kids and my hubby every day and cuddle up with my dogs.
