As Christmas approaches, many small and solo business owners face a unique paradox. On one hand, it’s a season of joy, celebration, and connection. On the other, it’s a whirlwind of deadlines, sales targets, and the quiet pressure to wrap up the year in a way that feels “successful.”
But let’s pause for a moment. Instead of talking about finishing strong or maximising sales, let’s explore something deeper.
What Does Success Look Like for You This Christmas?
For some, it might mean hitting those revenue goals or selling out their stock. But for others, success might look like having the time to enjoy Christmas lunch with family without checking their phone every five minutes. It might mean being proud of the work you’ve done throughout the year, even if it didn’t go perfectly.
The truth is, the holiday season shines a spotlight on our values. What do you care about most? Your time? Your craft? The people around you? Take a moment to define what matters to you this Christmas—and let that be your guide.
The Hidden Costs of the Season.
Christmas can also bring out the overachiever in us. “One more campaign.” “One more post.” “One more sale.” But at what cost? Burnout doesn’t take a holiday. Overworking now might leave you entering January drained, uninspired, and ready for a break you didn’t give yourself.
If you’re the kind of person who pours everything into your business, ask yourself: Who’s pouring back into me? And if the answer feels uncomfortable, maybe it’s time to pour back into yourself this season, and in 2025.
A Different Kind of Reflection.
Instead of focusing on how much you’ve done—or haven’t—this year, think about howyou’ve done it. Have you built connections that mattered? Did you allow yourself to take creative risks, even if they didn’t pay off? Did you stay true to why you started this business in the first place?
It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers or compare yourself to other businesses, but Christmas is a great reminder to reflect on the moments that felt successful, not just the ones that looked successful on paper.
Permission to Rest.
Small and solo business owners often feel like the weight of their business rests entirely on their shoulders. If you stop, everything stops. Right?
Maybe. Or maybe, a few days of rest won’t undo a year’s worth of hard work. Maybe your best ideas for next year will come during a quiet moment, not in the frenzy of trying to “keep up.”
Rest isn’t laziness—it’s preparation. So, give yourself permission to step away, even for a little while.
A Final Thought!
Christmas is about connection—not just with loved ones but with yourself. It’s about slowing down, appreciating what you’ve built, and remembering why you do what you do.
This season, instead of chasing an endless to-do list, take a moment to ask yourself: What do I want this Christmas to mean for me and my business?
The answer might surprise you—and it might just give you the clarity you need to step into the new year with purpose, not just plans.
Happy Christmas from Rawmarrow and the team- do it your way!
