September.  Change of season. A time of renewal for many.  September 2020 is no different. In many ways, more than ever before it is paramount to slow down, reset, refocus and recharge.  The pandemic is still here and will remain a constant indefinitely.  Time to get control and take the next 120 days to really do something for yourself and for your future.

Think back to January 2020. What goals did you set?  Don’t beat yourself up if during the last 120 days you were ‘sidetracked.’ Who wasn’t! Reflect back on the goals you consciously set.  Perhaps they are still your top priorities or perhaps you need to reset and refocus.

Yes, COIVD-19 has dramatically changed our industry, however, I challenge you to find the good and the opportunities.  Here are some thoughts to stimulate your thinking as you reset and refocus for the balance of 2020:

• Slow down and communicate. If you are a leader of a team, go the extra mile to plan, prepare and over communicate your brand strategy and plan.  Leave no stone unturned.  Everyone within your organization needs to feel their importance and want to give their input.

• Culture eats strategy for lunch. Take care of your people. If you lead a team, reach out to each person individually. Ideally, this is done in person but can also be done via text, Zoom, What’s App, private Facebook groups or other mainstream communication apps today.

• Train your teams. After being locked down for months, communication skills are lacking. Personal connection, what to say, and how to say it is critical when your brand might be under the microscope for trust and integrity. 

• Digital engagement strategy. Internally and externally this should be a top initiative. Whether you are a sole proprietor or a bigger brand, it is mandatory today to have digital presence. 

• Self care. What are you doing to minimize your stress levels and take care of #1. Our industry, members, teams and your own personal network need you more than ever before. You need to be strong, healthy and balanced. This is our commitment to who we are so show up and show up healthy. 

• Self development.  What are you doing to remain in the game? There are an abundant of webinars, seminars, certifications and opportunities to learn and grow. Stay in touch with the industry.  It is moving fast so get on the treadmill. Now.  (Fitness Industry Council of Canada, Women in Fitness Association, canfitpro) – so many options. No excuse.

• Look outside of your day to day.  Find a mentor. Join a new group of people to expand your thinking.  Many roundtables and associations that can help.

• Marketing and Sales. You better have a detailed strategy in place. 

Make it happen. It is up to you.  So many exceptional opportunities for those that have the courage and fortitude to stop, reflect and reset.  Harness what you want and what you can control. Own the rest of 2020 and walk into 2021 with strength and self love.  This IS your time.  Go for it.