Is This Business a Rollercoaster? How Do You Stay Balanced?

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Discussion Overview

The thread explores the emotional ups and downs experienced by participants in their Pampered Chef business. Many share personal anecdotes about fluctuating sales, cancellations, and the challenges of maintaining balance amidst these changes.

Discussion Character

  • Anecdotal
  • Opinion-based
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses feeling like the business is an emotional rollercoaster, with highs of scheduled shows and lows of cancellations.
  • Another participant shares their experience of having inconsistent months, noting the importance of follow-up and customer care for stability.
  • Several users mention the feeling of being overwhelmed by cancellations and the pressure to meet monthly goals.
  • One participant reflects on the need for perseverance and maintaining a positive outlook during slow periods.
  • Another participant describes the emotional impact of taking breaks from the business and the anxiety that follows.
  • One participant highlights the appeal of the drama associated with the business, suggesting it adds excitement to their life.
  • Another shares a personal story of dealing with a family loss and the challenge of returning to work afterward.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Views differ among participants regarding the emotional aspects of the business, with some finding comfort in shared experiences while others emphasize the individual nature of their challenges. No clear consensus emerges on how to achieve balance.

Contextual Notes

Participants share a range of experiences, from new consultants feeling overwhelmed to veterans reflecting on their journeys. The emotional nature of direct sales is a common theme, with many acknowledging the personal impact of business fluctuations.

Who May Find This Useful

Consultants experiencing similar emotional challenges in their business may find resonance in the shared experiences and viewpoints expressed in this thread.

amy07
amy07
Messages
2,785
who feels like this business can be an emotional rollercoaster? One minute, you've got shows lined up, potential recruits, great sales volume, etc. and then BAM! BAM! BAM! shows cancelled, recruits back-out, couldn't GIVE the stuff away. Ok, it's not that bad, gotta little carried away with the giving away part (I know some of you have people "lifting" your stuff).
For you veterans, how do you balance yourself out?
And if I really am the only one who feels like this, lie to me and tell me I'm not!;) ;)
 
For me it's been HOT and cold over the 1.5 years I've been doing this. You have good months and not so good! Over this time, I've had 2 non selling months 1 in July of 06(not 1 show or order :( ) and this Jan(although I had shows, they did not close until Feb).
I guess once you est. yourself and are consistent with the phone, follow up with leads, customer care etc. you will always be steady?? I'm just now getting into using the phone, as I totally avoided it the first year (total phone fear). Sometimes I feel I spend too much time working, thinking, living TPC but then I get busy with other things (kids, life, other partime booking job) and feel balanced with it. It happens to everyone I think!
 
I am like this ALL the time!!! Glad to know that I am not alone! Once my show was cancelled Saturday because of snow I felt like I was never going to reach my monthly goal. Then one day I feel like I am over booked for the month then the next day I want to book more! Who knows! :eek:
 
You are not alone - You can look at all my posts since I started - Sometime things are great and sometimes they are not - Kinda of like life
 
That's the way of direct sales. The key is to recognize it, then pull up your big girl panties and deal with it. At least, that's the talk I give myself.
 
I feel like that all of the time. I think it ,ay be part of th eappeal to me - LOL - I always seem to like a little drama in my life...
 
Heck, I'm at the point where my show days just can't come fast enough, and I just started...I'm bored. It's a slow start
 
I always remember that it will even out- when I am having a great month I celebrate, but know that it won't always be wonderful. On the other hand when I have a bad month I know that it will get better soon!
 
I can't complain, I got my 1250 in two shows just anxious..:)
 
It is a rollercoaster! For example - I had a great Jan & Feb...and thought I was off to a great March - but almost all of my March shows have fallen through (for some very valid reasons) I am looking today at no more shows until the first week in April. Now for April, I have 7-8 shows booked(and address lists for most of them - which is a big indicator to me that the show will hold)....which is the first time in 4 years that I have had a full show schedule for April! Like Gillian said - it all evens out, and if you are willing to persevere, it gets better! When I first started - actually for like the first 2 years, everytime I would look at an empty show schedule...I would panic and think "what if I can't pull this off?". Now though, I have a great customer base, and alot of good information and tools,and instead of panic....I go into work mode and make some calls and do some emails and just work the business until it's back where I want it to be.....I've watched your posts Amy, and I can tell you are off to a good start - perseverance! That's the biggest key!
 
amy07 said:
who feels like this business can be an emotional rollercoaster? One minute, you've got shows lined up, potential recruits, great sales volume, etc. and then BAM! BAM! BAM! shows cancelled, recruits back-out, couldn't GIVE the stuff away. Ok, it's not that bad, gotta little carried away with the giving away part (I know some of you have people "lifting" your stuff).
For you veterans, how do you balance yourself out?
And if I really am the only one who feels like this, lie to me and tell me I'm not!;) ;)
Click to expand...

Look on the bright side, we are both in the same town and you already have me beat :)
 
I feel this way a lot but it is my goal this year to work on having a more consistant calendar. which means more consistant phone time for me!!! I working on it!!

heather
 
  • Thread starter
  • #13
jasonmva said:
Look on the bright side, we are both in the same town and you already have me beat :)
Click to expand...

I don't have you "beat". Just remember we all have different agendas and goals (thanks to Janetupnorth for reminding ME of that). And you're right, we are pretty much in the same town, so you also know how competitive it is here, as I'm sure it is elsewhere!
 
  • Thread starter
  • #14
JenBowen said:
I can't complain, I got my 1250 in two shows just anxious..:)
Click to expand...


Keep it up Jen! Your off to a great start, and PC Dollars to boot!! Gotta love the FREE shopping!:p :p
 
  • Thread starter
  • #15
dannyzmom said:
I feel like that all of the time. I think it ,ay be part of th eappeal to me - LOL - I always seem to like a little drama in my life...
Click to expand...


I can understand that............Of course, pink panties on microfiber towels will always add a little drama too!!:eek: :eek: I'm still laughing about that!:D
 
At my first conference I heard that only in this busines can you go from euphoria to dispair then back to euphoria in three phone calls.

It is so true. Same with shows. I left tonight's show w/ $892 in sales 1 solid booking, 3 leads and a recruit lead. I got home and there was a message from a host whose show closed at $205...I basically catered this nitwits party and she is a pain!! Grrr... I'll deal with it, kill her with kindness and remember her daughter has shows and friends that rock. I'll do what it takes to make her happy even if I only made $60 for 3 hours work!

My main roller coaster w/ PC is when I take a week or two off. I get nervous, forget to host coach and when I finally do a show, I feel like it's my first.
 
Last edited:
I have a friend whose sister sells SLAH. She said they have a program where consultants can sign up for sessions with a "life coach" because of the whole emotional rollercoaster bit! I agree! I've been doing pretty well and fell into a HUGE rut...I'm clawing kicking and screaming to get out though! I won't give up!!!!
 
I have to say last summer business was trucking along as usual. slow but steady just the way I like it in the summer. Then at the end of July my mother-in-law passed away very unexpectedly and then of coarse everything came to a hault. Well when it was time to get back to work which was not very easy when I didn't have much desire at all. But I relized something when you have an employer and you have to take time off for such a situation someone is usualy still carring on with business. Where as with this business no one is going to work your business but you. It is very hard to come out of such a blow business wise and emotionally.

just keep trucking and you will find balance.

thanks
heather
 

Frequently Asked Questions

Is direct sales really a rollercoaster ride?

Yes, direct sales can often feel like a rollercoaster due to the fluctuations in sales, team dynamics, and personal motivation. There are high points, such as achieving sales goals or recruiting new team members, and low points, like facing rejection or experiencing slow sales periods. Embracing this variability is key to navigating the business successfully.

How can I stay balanced during the ups and downs?

Staying balanced involves setting realistic expectations and maintaining a positive mindset. Establishing a consistent routine, setting achievable goals, and celebrating small victories can help you manage the emotional highs and lows. Additionally, connecting with a supportive community can provide encouragement and motivation during challenging times.

What strategies can I use to manage stress in this business?

To manage stress, consider implementing time management techniques, such as prioritizing tasks and setting specific work hours. Taking breaks, practicing self-care, and engaging in activities outside of your business can also help maintain your mental well-being. Regularly reflecting on your progress and adjusting your strategies can further reduce stress levels.

How important is a support system in direct sales?

A strong support system is crucial in direct sales. Surrounding yourself with fellow consultants, mentors, and friends who understand the challenges of the business can provide encouragement and advice. Sharing experiences and celebrating successes together can help you stay motivated and balanced throughout your journey.

What should I do if I feel overwhelmed by the business?

If you feel overwhelmed, it's important to take a step back and reassess your goals and priorities. Consider simplifying your approach by focusing on a few key activities that yield the best results. Don’t hesitate to reach out for help, whether from your upline, peers, or a mentor, and remember that it’s okay to take breaks when needed to recharge your energy and perspective.

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