September 2024 – How the Fifty did that happen

Next week I will celebrate my 50th birthday with a heart full of gratitude and a spirit (perhaps Gin) ready for more adventures. I’ll admit, I ignored my 40th—I thought I was getting old. But now, at 50, I’ve learned to appreciate I’m just getting older and that’s ok.

As a woman who’s lived half a century, I’ve witnessed, challenged, and embraced many changes. From LPs to streaming music, and from the early days of the internet (when my boss said it was just a fad!) to the incredible advancements in AI today—I’ve been there, pushing boundaries and making sure I have a voice in it all.

I’ve also been at the forefront of the fight for equality, and let me tell you, I don’t stand for any nonsense! I’ve earned my place, and I’m proud of it. While I’ve seen friends who didn’t make it to 50, I’m here and I’m grateful. My motto? Get older, not old. Don’t let age define what you do next, or you’re truly buggered.

Here’s to living life on my terms and embracing every year with open arms. The one thing I embrace most about getting older is no one can tell you off – let them try! Bring it on, 50!

 

The Perceptions vs. Reality of Being a Business Owner

The Perceptions:          

1. Their day ends when the business closes: Many people assume that the work is done once the doors are shut.
2. They must be making lots of money because they’re always busy: The assumption is that a busy business equals financial success.
3. They’ve got everything under control: It’s often believed that business owners have perfectly managed all aspects of their business.
4. They enjoy complete freedom to do as they please: The perception is that owning a business means endless freedom and flexibility.
5. It’s no big deal if we cancel or don’t show up: Customers might think that their absence won’t significantly impact the business…
6. They know everything about running a business: There’s a belief that business owners are experts in every facet of their operation.
7. They’ll always be there: Many assume that a business owner’s presence is a given, no matter what.

The Reality:

1. The premises may close, but the work continues: Behind closed doors, there’s often an overwhelming amount of ‘house admin’ tasks that need attention.
2. Being busy doesn’t guarantee financial security: High costs associated with running a business mean that being busy doesn’t always equate to profitability, especially in 2024!
3. It’s far from perfect: Running a business is exhausting, and owners often feel like they’re on a never-ending rollercoaster of challenges.
4. Freedom is limited: Time REALLY IS money and every minute counts. Business owners often have less freedom than people think.
5. Cancellations and no-shows hurt: When customers don’t show up or cancel last minute, it can directly impact the ability to pay loans or suppliers or even their own mortgages or daily expenses
6. They’ve had to learn a lot along the way: Business owners might be experts in their core area, but they’ve had to invest time and money into learning about accounts, payroll, cash flow, employee management, marketing, and much more.
7. It’s not always sustainable: Without understanding and support in all these areas, a business can face both financial and emotional strain, making it difficult to continue.

The biggest challenge of owning a business isn’t just the operations—it’s dealing with the misconceptions others have about what it truly means to be a business owner. Understanding the reality behind the scenes can foster greater empathy and support from customers, employees, and the community.

So be kind to all of our independent businesses, because it’s hard work.

A Lesson in Hospitality: Dealing with People

I’ve recently gained a deeper appreciation for the challenges faced by those in the hospitality and retail industries, thanks to a family member who works in a restaurant. One of the most important skills he’s developed is people management, which is crucial in these fields. However, the past few weeks have been tough as he’s encountered more than his fair share of difficult customers—some of whom seem to thrive on complaining and being aggressive and confrontational.

No one deserves to be shouted at, spat on, or threatened. Unfortunately, this kind of rudeness isn’t limited to restaurants; it also extends to places where people need appointments, and receive abuse from trying to help!

We need to remember that our actions and words have consequences. The way we treat others will be remembered, and not always for the right reasons. It’s time to think before we act and ensure we’re leaving a positive impact on the young people coming up into adulthood!

 

Businesses Premises for Sale

CLO https://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/commercial/details/66070260/?search_identifier=de34506514d5a30dedc8fe4b6cf1e31e

The Assembly  – https://www.zoopla.co.uk/for-sale/commercial/details/68070955/?search_identifier=de34506514d5a30dedc8fe4b6cf1e31e (for sale by auction on the 11^th September)

Halifax Bank Building for Sale – https://www.cbre.co.uk/property-search/retail-space/listings/details/GB-Plus-512523/61-63-main-street-garforth-leeds-west-yorkshire-ls25-1af

Office for sale on Aberford Road – https://www.primelocation.com/for-sale/commercial/details/68165869/?search_identifier=97de338337436d2f32f247792e1b680b

Business premises to rent

Floors and Snores old premises – https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/150509183#/?channel=COM_LET

Green Lane – https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/82010579#/?channel=COM_LET

Lotherton Way, Industrial Unit – https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/86738685#/?channel=COM_LET

 Office to Let, Premier House (new hold estate) https://www.rightmove.co.uk/properties/148666376#/?channel=COM_LET

 

What’s on

• Tonight, 13th and 27th September – The Pizza Box at The Gaping Goose – from 5-8 pm or sell out
• Tomorrow, Saturday 7th September – The Garforth Show
  
• The First Sunday of every month – Bubble Church at St.Mary’s
  
  
• Saturday 7th September from 7.30 pm at The Podger – Bloomin’ Hummerz https://bit.ly/3TfzZOE
• Tuesday 17th September 2-4 pm – Health Information Day – Garforth Medical Centre
• 
• Saturday 21st September 2-4 pm – Clothing Swap  with Children 1 toy or book swap too – at The Miners Welfare Hall, read more- https://www.facebook.com/reel/528253229639502
• 21st September – Kippax Makers Market https://bit.ly/47gKWoS
  

 

Coming up

• 6th October – Apple Pressing day at Garforth Wildlife Garden with Incredible Edible https://bit.ly/3Zg5OuG
• 26th October – Sausage Fest  – Get your tickets before they sell out  – All in aid of raising money for Garforth Feastival 2025 – buy tickets here  https://bit.ly/3XilriA
• 

 

There is not much in the way of planning, however

The M62 will be closed in both directions from 9 pm today, 6th September, to 6 am on Monday 9 September, and again from 9 pm on Friday 20 September to 6 am on Monday 23 September.

Until October 
Enjoy September – it’s a great month (and the kids have gone back to school)