Let’s just be honest for a sec. When sales slow down, it’s really hard not to panic. One minute you’re vibing, shipping orders, and feeling like you’ve got this whole small business thing handled… and the next? Crickets! Your brain goes into “what am I doing wrong?” mode, and it’s easy to start spiralling.
I’ve been there and more than once!
But here’s the truth I’m learning (and reminding myself of constantly): slow sales aren’t a sign that your business is failing. They’re a sign that you’re human, running a small business during a weird economy, possibly in a quiet season, and trying your best.
This post isn’t about pushing through burnout or guilt-tripping you into “doing more.” It’s about helping you feel grounded when things get quiet, so you can breathe, reset, and figure out what actually feels good to do next. Ready? Let’s walk through it together.
First Things First: Breathe (For Real.)
When things slow down, your nervous system might start panicking. It’s like, “HELLO?? Where are the orders?!” You start questioning everything: your prices, your products, your entire life path. And look, that’s normal. But it’s also not the vibe we’re going for long-term.
Here’s what I tell myself when the panic creeps in:
“It’s not just me. The economy is rough, people are spending less, and sometimes…it’s just the season.”
There’s nothing wrong with you. There’s nothing wrong with your business. Every small business has slow seasons. Yes, even the ones that look like they’re crushing it online.
The biggest mistake you can make right now is reacting from fear. Panic sales, posting every five seconds, or disappearing completely might feel like the right move in the moment, but they’re not coming from a grounded place. So before we do anything else, I want you to pause and ask yourself:
“How can I use this time instead of fearing it?”
That simple question is where the shift begins. Feel yourself starting to spiral? Grab my free 7-Day Reset Challenge. One journal prompt a day to help you chill out and reset your brain.
What to Actually Do (That Isn’t Just “Post More”)
Okay, now that we’ve taken a breath and reminded ourselves that this isn’t a crisis, it’s just a slower chapter, let’s talk about what you can do that’s actually helpful.
This isn’t about hustling even harder or throwing spaghetti at the wall to see what sticks. It’s about getting curious, getting organized, and making intentional little shifts that support your business (and your brain). Here’s where to start:
1. Take Inventory
What’s been selling lately? What’s just sitting there collecting dust? Look for patterns, sometimes your bestsellers will surprise you! This is a great time to tweak your product lineup or even say goodbye to the products that just aren’t moving.
2. Organize Your Materials
A slow period is basically the universe handing you time to clean that junk drawer, take stock of your supplies, or finally toss that fragrance oil you swore you’d use two years ago. A clear space = clearer head.
3. Sell or Repurpose What You’re Not Using
Got supplies or stock that aren’t serving you? Try selling them off or repurposing them into something fresh. Less clutter, more cash flow. Win-win.
4. Check In With Your Content
This one’s not about posting more, it’s about posting smarter. Are people engaging with your posts? Are you showing off your bestsellers enough? Are you reminding your followers what makes your products actually amazing? Sometimes, a little strategy session can go a long way. Or work on your email marketing, write some emails your customers will get excited about! These 7 are a great place to start. Also, don’t be afraid to switch up your posting style; just because it “works for someone else” doesn’t mean it has to work for you. You don’t want to blend in, you want to stand out!
5. Refresh Your Product Photos or Website
If your listings or site haven’t been updated in a while, this is a great time to polish things up. Better photos = more clicks. A clearer website = smoother sales. Small changes can make a big difference in how customers experience your brand.
6. Play + Experiment
Use this time to test new ideas, blend new scent combos, or sketch out a product you’ve been daydreaming about. You don’t need to launch it yet, but giving yourself creative freedom now might just spark your next bestseller. Thinking about adding a blog to your shop? Here’s why it might be your secret weapon.
And if all else fails? Take a nap. Rest is not lazy, especially when your brain’s been in overdrive.
How to Run a Sale (Without Looking Desperate)
Running a sale during a slow season can be a smart move, but only if it comes from a place of intention, not panic. There’s a difference between a fun customer treat and a “please buy something or I’ll cry” energy (we’ve all been there, no shame). Here’s how to make it feel aligned and not awkward:
Make It Feel Like a Celebration
Instead of calling it a “clearance” or “flash sale,” give it a vibe. Maybe it’s a “Treat Yourself Weekend,” “Slow Season, Sweet Deals,” or a “Customer Appreciation Sale.” Name it something that sounds like a gift, not a last resort.
Focus on the Customer’s Benefit
Frame it around them, not you. Instead of “I need to make room for new stock,” try:
“You deserve a little something extra this week, here’s 15% off your faves.”
Your tone can shift everything.
Don’t Overdo the Discounts
You don’t have to slash prices to the bone. Even a small, thoughtful offer can be effective if it’s positioned well. And if your audience is feeling the pinch financially too, a little discount might be all it takes to get them to check out.
Add Value If You Don’t Want to Discount
Not feeling a sale? Try offering free shipping, a freebie with purchase, or early access to something new. The goal is to spark excitement without sounding like you’re struggling.
You’ve Got This (Even When It Doesn’t Feel Like It)
Running a small business isn’t easy. If it were, everyone would do it. The truth is, slow seasons happen to every business, no matter how polished their Instagram grid looks. So if you’re in one right now, I want you to know this:
You’re not doing anything wrong. You’re not failing. You’re just in a quieter moment, and that doesn’t mean you’re not growing.
Let this be your reminder that your business is allowed to rest. You are allowed to rest. Not every season has to be explosive growth or record-breaking sales. Sometimes the most important work happens in the pause; when you reorganize, reconnect with your purpose, or simply take care of yourself.
Everything will be okay. Nothing great is birthed from a panicked state of mind. Rest.
And hey, if this helped you feel more grounded, stay tuned for a follow-up post soon about how to prepare for your next slow season so it doesn’t feel so overwhelming next time. You’ve got this, and I’m cheering you on every step of the way, bestie! And don’t forget, to sign up for my 7 Day Soft CEO Reset Challenge below!
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