Small Business Stage1 Reopening: and all the feelings that come with it

We've been sensing a lot of mixed feelings as we head into (a pushed ahead) Stage One.

There is excitement, of course.

And if all you are feeling is excitement and gratitude, that is fantastic and we are so happy for you.

Keep going, keep rocking it and

stay connected to your audience.

But maybe you're not really sure what day it is sometimes.

Maybe it's hard to feel motivated.

Maybe you had a plan, but are feeling a little lost and unfocused.

Despite the fact that this is what we want, and need, it's hard to start this all over, yet again.

What we've been noticing is that our fellow business owners are weary.

And wary.

You've been through countless shutdowns and pushbacks, and we know this feels as uncertain as all the others.

There are still so many questions about whether this will last, or how long, and looking ahead to the next stages, aching for complete normalcy, and fearing it at the same time, because we aren't sure how it will feel.

It's a total whirlwind. And it's not something that you can just bounce back from or snap out of.

Of course, we don't have an answer to any of this.

We just want you to know that it's okay to not feel pure excitement. It's okay to feel a little uneasy.

You have been through so much, so many emotions, pivots, rules and regulations, so many restrictions. It's a total whirlwind. And it's not something that you can just bounce back from or snap out of.

No one can expect that of you.

Just as we eased into restrictions in the beginning, we are going to have to ease out. Each of us at our own pace.

Take time to check in with yourself, and go at the pace you need.

Drink water.

Stay cool (literally and figuratively).

Keep posting on your website and social media as much as you can, knowing some customers won't move as quickly to get back in-store.

Update your hours on social media and Google My Business.

Do what you can.

Deep breaths. We can do this.

Welcome back.