The struggle is real right now. I have been staring at the computer for a while now trying to figure out what to write about this week and realize that all the education in the world isn’t going to change the reality of life as we know it.

I want to offer value and support always. I feel like today that comes in the way of first saying I am with you and I get it. We are all struggling in so many ways.

In light of the pandemic you are struggling to get your clients to trust that your safety measures are in place and will protect them and their families as you begin serving meals again. Some of you are the sole source of income for your families now because your spouse has lost their job and some of you have pivoted and are chartering new territory. Whatever your situation, where ever you find yourself, the struggle is real, but I am here for you, in whatever way that looks like.

Yesterday I had a meeting with Melanie Garvey of Baked In Code who (spoiler alert) I will be featuring soon on here! She had a great phrase that I wanted to adopt and share which was “I am just planting seeds right now”. If we can just stay the course and use this time to keep focused on our ultimate vision and where we saw our businesses heading at the beginning of the year, we can still get there if we continue to ‘plant those seeds’.

How do we do that? Here’s what I suggest:

1. Network – Grow your network proactively! Get out there either online or in person and let people know who you are and what you do. Collaborate with like-minded people and don’t be afraid to get to know, befriend and learn from your competitors! There is tremendous value in those who are wearing your same shoes 😉
2. Establish yourself as an expert – You hear me harp on this a lot because I believe in blogging, but BLOG! It makes a difference and it sets you apart when you show people you are comfortable discussing your line of work! The more trust you build with your audience the more likely they will be to buy from you when their wallets start to loosen back up!
3. Keep on keeping on… Don’t forget to do what you do. You are a Chef after all, don’t forget to remind everyone that you are Chefin’ it up in the kitchen every night making irresistible dishes! Don’t lose sight of why you started this all in the first place.

I am here for you all! I love you all and stand by each and everyone of you! If there is anything you need, even just a chat to vent you know I am always here 😉

xo Amanda
amanda@amandarichardsonphoto.com