How Small Businesses Can Win During Slow Seasons

In this episode of Kanawha Valley Hustlers, I talk about one of the biggest lessons in business—focusing on what’s within our control. This idea has been reinforced through my experience with BNI, specifically the Power Chapter here in Charleston, West Virginia.

BNI is built around the concept of The Power of One, which encourages members to take control of their success by consistently doing four key things: attending weekly meetings, investing in education, having one-to-one meetings, and passing referrals. Of these, three are fully within our control. We can choose to show up, build relationships, and keep learning. The only piece that isn’t entirely in our hands is when referrals happen—but by staying engaged and consistent, those opportunities naturally follow.

Even outside of BNI, this idea applies to everything in business. We can’t control when a client says yes, but we can control how well we prepare for meetings. We can’t always control the market, but we can control how we respond to challenges. That’s been my biggest takeaway lately—focusing on my effort, my consistency, and the things that move the needle forward.

If you’re in business, take a moment to ask yourself: What am I focusing on? Am I stressing over things I can’t control, or am I putting my energy into the actions that will create success?

That’s the mindset I’m working to strengthen, both in BNI and in everything I do.