The old saying goes, “If you love what you do, you will never work a day in your life.”
February is the “month of love,” so I decided this article will be about remembering why we do what we do and hopefully spark some sort of tingle in your heart to either bring back the love you may have lost for your business, or inspire you to fall more deeply in love with your career.
About one third of the average human life is spent at work. Many factors go into the destination that we call “happiness”: family, friends, and our health all play huge roles. But happiness and fulfillment with our job, workplace, co-workers, company, clients, and monetary successes all play roles in our happiness, as well.
Some couples have the rule, “We don’t take work home with us” and for some, this may be possible. But for the majority of us, if work has us stressed out, frustrated or on the flip-side, excited or proud, these are moments we share with our partners and family. No matter what career you choose, there will be ups and downs; but how you react in those down moments is what really defines you. I love what I do, because I get to help people make money. I like to believe I provide them with tools they need to grow their businesses – this gives me great pride and contributes to my love for my job. I also have great love for our industry; this includes all salons, manufacturers, and distributors. Whether it’s my competitor or a salon that doesn’t carry my product line, I want everyone to succeed. If they succeed, our industry succeeds as a whole.
[gap]I took this idea of “loving what you do” and asked the simple question of others in our industry who inspire me: “Why do you do what you do?” I believe I got some great responses.
[gap]“I really love being able to take someone’s dream of owning their own business and make it a reality – taking their thoughts or ideas and combining them with my experiences to achieve their lifelong goal of a successful salon.”
Eric Matras, Director of Sales & Business Development
Forever Tan
[gap]“I love the challenges of reinvention. Helping to keep small business relevant in a corporate world brings me great joy and inspires me to continue to think outside the box, which keeps me on my toes.”
Brook Taylor, Owner
All Hours Distribution
“I love the behind-the-scenes aspect of meeting people all over the world who share the same love and passion for the industry that I do. I’ve made so many lifelong friends over the years, and every time I go to their salons, I feel like I’m at home and my work has become play.”
Kandra Covert, National Sales Trainer
Devoted Creations
[gap]“I always say we are in the escapism business. If I can help someone escape from their troubles or whatever is bothering them, reach their goals and deliver an experience to them, that’s what drives me and makes me truly happy.”
Brad Driver, Franchise Owner
Sun Tan City
[gap]“I enjoyed indoor tanning before I ever knew really about this industry. Someone I knew got me an interview with Four Seasons and it was love at first sight. We meet so many great people, some I have formed great bonds and friendships with that I wouldn’t trade for anything. We have so much fun in this industry – new products, expos, always something different to learn and experience. I feel like I am in a position to help others be their best. It is a great feeling to truly enjoy your work every day.”
Suzy Baucam, Sales Manager
Four Seasons Sales & Service
[gap]If we approach every day with the same passion we had on the first day we started our career or opened the doors of our business, we would all be inspirted to serve our customers better. Life isn’t always sunshine and roses; but with a third of our lives being spent working, why not focus this month on remembering why we do what we do, and resolve to put as much effort, love and passion into our daily work as we did on the very first day.
Success is not the key to happiness; happiness is the key to success. If you love what you do, you’ll be successful.
