11/23/2022
Here we are, the day before Thanks. We all have quite a bit on our plates. I’m fairly certain that there isn’t one with more or less to do during these very busy Holiday months.
I had an interaction with a potential client the last few days that has me really second guessing everything. And it's taken a toll on my mental health. I would be naive to not be honest with myself and you, my clients if I didn’t admit that I too have bad days.
While this is the season for Joy, I try to find as much of it as possible now and all year long. It is also the season for burnout in Service-based Industry Persons. While you are struggling with your everyday stresses and realize that a massage is just what you need... We in the Industry are struggling with your same stresses plus those who believe they can call last minute and get in.
I call it the Season of Pushback. Because there is always one or two or a dozen that think this behavior is okay.
And, it's not.
It just isn’t.
In an area where there are only one or two of us as massage therapists in a population of 3k-4k... we are overworked, booked and tired.
Nowadays, these incidents are few and far between. But when they do happen, it seems to be the worst case scenario. I get made out to be the most awful of bad guys. That I just won't take a little bit of time out for them.
How could I come so highly recommended by everyone and then treat them so curtly and unkind.
I’ve heard it all
Even being accused of stealing money.
You would think that in 16 yrs time I would have grown some thicker skin.
Nope.
Bodywork requires a soft heart. A mind that understands, one that passes the least amount of judgment as possible.
I can only imagine what is being said about me and mine today. In a small town, I’m sure you’ll hear all about it by the end of the week.
So here is the part you won't hear. Here is what they won't tell you about the situation...
That I have a Life also
That you have to give me time, and then a little more, and then you probably have to remind me again.... And maybe again... What’s funny about this one is MOST of my clients know they have to remind me... and I'm SO grateful they are forgiving.
That as much as I do Love my Therapy career, I Love my Daughter, Husband and Family more and they will always, always come first.
That if I haven’t gotten back to you there is a damn good reason why and NO, it's not because I’m ignoring you!
That your approach matters. How you start with me is how we end.
So, I’m asking you to do me a favor this Holiday Season. Please remember these words before you blow up on your Therapist, Stylist, Esthetician and so on.
And if you really want to know the whole story, I’m around.
Happy Thanksgiving!! Ours is pretty special this year. If you know, you know! Thanks for all your support. And putting up with my really unpredictable schedule. And Loving me and mine with all our flaws. And rooting for Us and sticking with us even when the chips are down and the rumors are flying!!!
I appreciate you!!!!
