I don’t usually write posts like this, but I felt it was time for a little behind-the-scenes honesty about small business challenges.
Lately, I’ve noticed a shift—and I know I’m not alone. Sales have slowed, materials are harder to come by, and the overall vibe in the small business world feels… uneasy. Between ongoing economic uncertainty, rising costs, and supply chain delays, it’s starting to feel oddly familiar.
In fact, it reminds me a bit of when the pandemic first hit. Except back then, my business actually exploded. Aside from the very real fear of losing loved ones (and sadly, I did—though that’s another story), I thrived in that slower, quieter world. I was actually ridiculously busy with work, but I loved being told to stay home with my family. I felt creatively energized and deeply grateful to have something stable and growing when so much else was uncertain.
This photo reminds me how important it is to stay open to new ideas—every pivot has a purpose, even if it’s temporary. This little family-run yard sign business was a fun chapter during a time of reinvention. It didn’t last long—turns out the kids weren’t all that interested in helping (lol), and we found out we were relocating and didn’t want to haul all that inventory across state lines. But honestly? It was fun while it lasted.
Business, like life, doesn’t stay in one phase forever.
I’ve been running my business since 2004, and I’ve noticed a pattern: about every five years, I’ve had to reinvent or pivot in some way. Whether it’s changing what I offer, where I sell, or how I connect with customers—those seasons of change are necessary, even if they’re uncomfortable. I try to make the most of what I have, repurposing tools and ideas where I can, but sometimes a pivot requires new ventures, new products, or new equipment. And sometimes… that new equipment turns out to be a massive, $50K mistake. (I’m looking at you, liquid adhesive DTF printer—total junk that launched me into a two-year depression.)
But hey, I’ve moved past that. I think.
And of course, there was that time my Etsy shop was shut down without warning – a different kind of stress and uncertainty, but I kept going.
Anyway, I can feel another season of change coming again now
Just this week, I discovered a key material I use is delayed again—possibly until July. Between shortages and potential new tariffs, even ordering supplies that are made in the USA feels unpredictable. Costs are up everywhere, and I know that’s affecting both business owners and customers alike. I’ve worked really hard to not raise my prices much, if at all in the last five years but it is getting harder and harder to absorb these increases.
If you’re a fellow maker, artist, or creative entrepreneur, maybe you’re feeling it too. It’s not just about profit margins—it’s the emotional weight of trying to figure out what’s next, while still doing what you love.
However, I’m not giving up. I’m adjusting. I’m listening to my instincts. I’m leaning into more digital products, exploring new ideas, and trying to find my rhythm in this new chapter.
And hey – if you’ve supported my business in any way—by shopping, sharing, or simply cheering me on—thank you. Truly. It means more than you know.
If you’re in the thick of this too: you’re not alone. We’ve done hard things before. We’ll find our footing again.
On a personal note, this is what is what I’m doing to find some joy outside of work:
- Reading more
- Indulging in movies and shows (while on the treadmill, at least!)
- Spending more time outside now that the weather is warming up
I’d love to hear from you.
Are you navigating a season of change in your business or life? What’s working for you right now—or what’s just barely keeping you going? If you have any tips, encouragement, or stories to share, drop them in the comments. Let’s remind each other we’re not alone in this.
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