"Find the rhythm."

Find the rhythm.
Business has rhythm. Ever try to sell pumpkins in August? Christmas trees in October? Hot chocolate in July? Fruit has seasons that have developed in people over thousands of years, a rhythm for desire.

People have a rhythm as well. I know I go through times of ravenous information intake; when I keep three books, two magazines, 7 catalogs, email, web pages, and podcasts streaming into my head as fast as I can cram in all in. Then I'll go for a month reading nothing at all.

To everything there is a season.
...Turn, Turn, Turn.. Popularized by the song, but based in Ecclesiastes, to everything there is a season. The key is figuring out what those seasons are, so you can work with them, not against them.

As you bridge into the spring season, what rhythms do you find pulling, pushing, or helping you? I remember in fall hoping for a "snow day" to snuggle down inside by the fire and enjoy the winter - Boy, did I get want I wished!

After 4 feet of snow, I can assure you that the spring weather sent my family and every other outside to play on the playground and burn some kid-energy!

Here are some more rhythms I've noticed in business:
The last two weeks of August are DEAD for the Fun Park- everyone is Back-To-School shopping.

Jan-Feb farmers are requesting MQ information, but purchasing decisions generally start when the weather breaks. (If you're in that category, we'll still be glad to help you with your corn maze and attractions this year:-)

Birthday party scheduling has compressed with Mom waiting until the last minute to book. Most of our parties book less than two weeks in advance.

It's not apple season until you have three days with high temps under 60 degrees. People just aren't in the mood until it's chilly!

Go with the flow.
Why spend you time thinking about rhythms? Because you can make your life easier if you go with the natural flow. Don't bother advertising apples until it's chilly, but when it is - go for it! We don't work hard at public relations during the "back-to-school" season - people aren't listening for it. We aren't frustrated when it's hot and business is slow - we expect it.

Take it easy this year. Find you rhythm and go with the flow.

Have a great week. - Hugh

PS What rhythms have you spotted? Send it my way and let me know if you'd like to share it with our readers.