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Protecting Your Mental Health When Business Is Slow
by Cara Kapler
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Slow season can hit hard—not just your bank account, but your mental health too. It’s easy to feel unmotivated, question your progress, or even wonder if you’re doing enough. But here’s the truth: slow seasons are completely normal, and you’re not alone.
Cara’s been there, Jessi’s been there—we’ve felt the weight of a quiet schedule or a slow business. That’s why we’re sharing some real, gritty tips to help you push through, stay sane, and even come out stronger in your lash business.
1️⃣ Move Your Body, Even When You Don’t Want To
Let’s be honest: on slow days, it’s tempting to stay in bed, binge Netflix, or scroll endlessly through Instagram. But getting up and moving your body—even for just 15 minutes—can completely shift your mood and energy levels.
- Go for a walk and get some fresh air.
- Try a new workout class or revisit an old favorite.
- Jessi swears by boxing—because, let’s face it, punching stuff can be great therapy.
The key is to find an outlet that helps you release stress and feel refreshed. Movement isn’t just for your body—it’s for your mind too.
💡 Pro Tip: Exercise boosts endorphins and helps clear mental fog, so you can get back to focusing on your goals.
2️⃣ Look After Your Basic Needs
Just because you don’t have a full schedule of clients doesn’t mean you get to skip the essentials. Slow seasons are the perfect time to focus on taking care of YOU.
- Eat real meals: Snacks and coffee aren’t enough. Fuel your body with proper meals to keep your energy stable.
- Hydrate like a pro: Drink water consistently throughout the day. Your body—and your brain—will thank you.
- Get dressed: Even if you’re staying home, changing out of pajamas can shift your mindset and make you feel more put-together.
💡 Pro Tip: Set a small daily goal, like doing your skincare routine or tidying up your workspace. Accomplishing even one thing creates momentum and helps you feel productive.
3️⃣ Talk to Someone
Sometimes the weight of it all can feel unbearable. That’s okay—being a business owner is no small feat, and carrying everything alone isn’t sustainable.
Cara started therapy during a tough time, and it was a total game-changer. “Talk therapy” helps you feel validated and releases some of the anxiety you might be holding onto. Whether you talk to a professional, vent to a trusted friend, or lean on your lash community, you’ll feel lighter just by getting it out.
💡 Pro Tip: Online platforms like BetterHelp or Talkspace make it easy to find a therapist who fits your needs.
You don’t have to carry everything alone.
4️⃣ Get Business Ready
Slow season is the perfect time to tackle those tasks you’ve been putting off. Use this downtime to prep for when things pick up again—future you will thank you.
Here’s where to focus:
- Set Goals: Map out your 2025 goals and the steps you’ll need to reach them. Dream big—you’re capable of more than you think!
- Prep for Taxes: Organize receipts, track your expenses, and get ahead of tax season. Less stress later? Yes, please.
- Revamp Your Marketing: Batch-create social posts, brainstorm fresh promo ideas, or update your service menu.
- Reconnect with Clients: Send friendly check-ins or thank-you messages to past clients. Sweeten the deal with a small discount to encourage rebooking.
5️⃣ Stay Inspired
When your books are empty, it’s easy to lose sight of why you started. Use slow times to reignite your passion for what you do.
- Follow other lash artists or beauty professionals who inspire you.
- Watch tutorials or explore new techniques to try on your next client.
- Create a mood board for your dream studio, branding, or big goals for the year.
💡 Pro Tip: Remind yourself of your “why.” Whether it’s financial freedom, creativity, or independence, let that drive you forward.
6️⃣ Audit Your Business
Use this time to take a good, hard look at what’s working—and what isn’t.
- Review Your Pricing: Are you charging enough to reflect your skills and cover your costs?
- Assess Your Services: Are there services that aren’t profitable or take up too much time? Consider streamlining.
- Update Your Policies: Create or refine your booking, cancellation, and deposit policies to ensure your time is respected.
7️⃣ Give Yourself Grace
Not every day needs to be productive—and that’s okay. Some days, you’ll need to rest, cry it out, or do absolutely nothing. Running a business is hard work, and slow seasons don’t define your success.
💡 Pro Tip: Keep a “wins list.” Write down even the smallest accomplishments—a positive client review, a new skill you learned, or even just getting through a tough day. When self-doubt creeps in, look back at your list as a reminder of all the amazing things you’ve done.
8️⃣ Explore Creative Opportunities
Use the slow season to experiment with new services, branding, or offers.
- Try a New Service: Ever considered adding brow services, lash lifts, or skincare treatments to your menu? Use the downtime to practice and perfect them.
- Offer Mini Sessions: Create shorter, more affordable appointments to attract new clients during quieter weeks.
- Collaborate Locally: Partner with other beauty professionals for cross-promotions, giveaways, or bundled services.
You’re Never Alone
Above all, remember that Lash Line is here for you. Slow seasons don’t last forever, and neither do tough times. Whether you need advice, support, or just someone to listen, reach out to us. We genuinely love hearing from you—you’re never a bother.
Send us an email, drop a voice note, or message us anytime. We’re here, always.
You’ve got this, Lash Rat.
💛 All our love,
Cara, Jessi and the Lash Line team xo