When I opened my pet sitting business 10+ years ago, I was really excited that I finally became my own boss, that I could set my own schedule and work wherever and whenever… Quitting my full time job set me off to singing “I AM FREEEEEE” on the top of my lungs…. in the shower of course, you don’t really want to hear me sing…. so let’s focus on pet sitting….
Running a pet sitting and dog walking business is a 24/7 job. Even though the glimpses of freedom do exist, they come with a whole new set of responsibilities. So yes, the daily grind of dog walks, pet sitting scheduling, pet owners phone calls and pet sitting software design implementation all peaked this month. The temperatures outdoors peaked also… I am not surprised I felt overwhelmed that my passion has become a job, a job that was taking a toll on my personal life.
To lift up my spirits, I have decided to try to focus on what I particularly love about my job. So I made a list. I have limited myself to 120 seconds, and started writing things down as they were entering my mind… Here is a short snippet of the list.
- My job allows me to learn so much about pets.
- My work environment is upbeat and positive.
- I am loved and happily greeted each time I enter someone’s house.
- I’m kissed and licked every day.
- My job allows me to practice yoga whenever I want to.
- I can take naps during a day.
- I don’t have to wear makeup every day.
- I spend time outdoors being active.
This list went on, and I was pleasantly surprised how much these 2 minutes revitalized my spirit and my body. I was ready to jump back into the world of pet sitting recharged and uplifted. This reminder of what I loved about being a pet sitter brought me back to the reason why I opened my own business at the first place….
If you are ever down and spent, take 2 minutes to remind yourself about why you do what you do and why all the hard work is really worth it. Being thankful will also help you find the good in every day. Just look closely, it’s there, and you know it in your heart.