Riding the small business roller coaster (Please remember to stop and breathe)

#BeavertonAreaChamberofCommerce

When I got to a certain age that I will not disclose, I could no longer handle those spinning rides at amusement parks. The “hurl-a-whirl” had lost its magic. While I have always enjoyed a good adrenaline rush and tend to like new experiences, the past few years have been… well, annoying.

Anyone who owns, runs, or works for a small business can relate. Most large businesses, nonprofits, and government agencies can also relate. A roller coaster can be fun, but only for a while. It’s nice to get off, eat some popcorn, try to toss a ring onto a bottle, and go for a slow ride on the merry-go-round.

So, how is the nonstop roller coaster going for you these days? Are you finding time to get off for at least a short time? Breathe. You got this.

We know that many business owners and managers have made tremendous efforts to keep their businesses strong and customers happy over the past two years. Many have worked extra hours, installed new systems for health and safety, changed customer ordering and delivery methods, and more. This while also navigating staffing shortages, supply chain interruptions, inflation, and unstable markets.

Too bad the genie does not appear so you can have your three wishes granted. End pandemic, check. Amazing new employees, check. Month off at the beach or in the mountains, check.

Okay, back to reality.

We love our local businesses. We have had a banner year at the Beaverton Area Chamber of Commerce. We have added many wonderful new partners. We have done outreach to local businesses in support of the City of Beaverton. We have hosted weekly educational workshops online and started to offer in-person workshops at the Chamber.

And our community is right there with us. We are getting outside, together. We are finding ways to support our local businesses, together. We are working hard to continually make Beaverton an even better place to work, play, live, and do business – together.

So, to all of you that have done so much to keep your businesses going – THANK YOU. Your efforts are not lost on us. We see your efforts, value your partnerships, and are doing all we can to help support you and your team.

Please, remember to stop and breathe – and know that your hard work is appreciated more than might be evident at times.

By Rob Routhieaux, Director of Small Business Support & Development

For more information about how your business can be involved or sponsorship opportunities, email us at info@beaverton.org or call, 503-644-0123.