Even the most creative artists fall into a rut every now and again. As a beauty professional, you strive to deliver the best services to your clients but sometimes work, just like life, can feel repetitive and humdrum. Bringing an A-game mentality to your salon suite each and every day doesn’t have to require a lot of thought if you have a few inspiring tricks tucked away in your wellness toolbox.
Feeling stuck? Try one (or all!) of these creative pick-me-ups to get your groove back from that first appointment in the morning until the last one of the evening.
1. Create an inspiration board.
Make like you’re back in art class by busting out some poster board, markers, scissors, old magazines, and the like to craft an inspiration board that is packed with things that make you feel happy or remind you of a goal. Cut out quotes that inspire you or make you think, as well as images that make you smile. It doesn’t have to be a giant poster that you hang on a wall. An inspiration board can be personal, so just keep it strategically placed in a drawer that you can access whenever you need a boost.
2. Schedule a “me-time” appointment.
Sure, there are going to be days when it feels like absolutely everyone needs something from you, and when clients are booked back-to-back, but don’t underestimate the power of a 15-minute solo session for yourself. Close your eyes and sit in silence, read a book, take a brisk walk—how you choose to spend the time is up to you. Just make sure that it’s spent doing something for you.
3. Get outside.
When we’re so consumed with all of the things we need to do in a day, just the idea of stepping outside can feel like a chore. But, in the words of Nike, just do it! Breathing in fresh air and taking in the sights and sounds of your surroundings can have a huge impact on your overall mood, not to mention your motivation. Take a walk around the block or even sit still outside when you have a moment to collect your thoughts and re-energize for the rest of the day. A recent study found that just 20 minutes spent outdoors three times a week can give your well-being and memory function a boost. But remember, stay off your phone during this time. If you’re consumed with a screen you won’t reap nature’s benefits.
4. Phone a friend.
Yes, yes, we may have just told you not to bring your phone on that walk around your neighborhood, but at another point in your day—call a friend or loved one you haven’t spoken with in a while for a brief check-in. Having the opportunity to vent or even immerse yourself in someone’s else’s happenings for a while can break you out of your own bubble. Plus, it just feels good to connect with others.
5. Go green.
While we strongly encourage everyone to do good by the environment, that’s not the type of green we’re talking about. Experts say the color green stokes creativity. In fact, there’s even scientific research to back it up! In a study that asked a test group to write down as many uses for a tin can as possible in two minutes, the folks who were shown green before the activity produced more creative ideas than those shown white. Researchers involved think that green cues our minds up for motivation. So, maybe it’s time to add a little green to your salon suite’s color palette. Or, just think of all the green you’ll bring home after a successful day at work.
