Do you work to live or live to work? For many innkeepers, the distinction is a blurred one. That's ok - as long as you're running the business and it's not running you. Setting boundaries, staying motivated, and being happy in your B&B business is critical to its success as well as your sanity. Here are a few ways to help you keep calm and carry on.
Working Your Business So It Doesn't Work You
Carving out time for yourself isn't easy in between handling everything on your to-do list. During the times when the euphoria of innkeeping wears off and fatigue sets in, I caution you to be aware and be prepared. Feeling tired and overworked is hard to hide, but you can ward off these feelings by taking back a sense of control and keeping things in perspective. I've spoken with numerous innkeepers over the years, and there are several tricks of the trade that can help keep you sane: 1) make a list of what you like about being an innkeeper; 2) let go of your pursuit of perfection; 3) learn not to take criticism personally; 4) understand (and accept!) that you can't please everyone all of the time; 5) have a sense of humor; 6) take compliments to heart; and 7) recognize when you need to get away.
Finding Ways to Take a Break
Making time for yourself can be as simple as taking an afternoon stroll, enjoying a date night with your significant other, and even spending a few days away from your inn. No matter how busy you may be, giving yourself permission to take time off is possible and important - because you've earned it! One of the biggest benefits of innkeeping is that you are your own boss. Whether you hire a professionally-trained stand-in or have the ability to close the inn during your absence, as long as you have policies in place to ensure that the business will still run smoothly; guests (if you stay open) can still be catered to correctly; and reservations can still be taken in a timely manner, there is no reason not to enjoy some well-deserved rest and rejuvenation.
Continuing the Never-ending Learning Process
Any small business handbook you read will praise the benefits of professional development. Luckily, there are plenty of professional resources available in our industry worth investing your time and money in to help improve your knowledge and skills; find answers to your questions and concerns; discover renewed energy and enthusiasm; network and make connections; and meet and gain support from others who faces similar challenges. You can join a professional association or local, regional, state or province associations that specialize in tourism and marketing. You can also attend innkeeping conferences, including the upcoming AIHP Knowledge Summit in Nashville, TN in April, to learn from experienced innkeepers and speakers; attend workshops on a variety of topics from baking to bookkeeping; find fresh new ideas and ways of doing things; and see products and demonstrations by numerous industry vendors. Plus, as an added benefit, you will have a lot of fun and make plenty of friends who just may become the ideal support system for you in the future.
Keeping Your Most Important Asset (You) Fine Tuned
By Mary White
Innkeeper Sanity-Saving Tips!