Sometimes I imagine how society might have existed before the stock market.
Ok yes I’m probably dreaming here and ignoring systemic economic disparity and injustices… But in the magical society in my mind, money would have represented a way that people interacted socially and felt like they were participating in society.
Someone could provide a product or service within their expertise, and the recipient demonstrated their gratitude by either providing their own goods or services or money in exchange.
They had a clear way that they demonstrated value for each other and felt appreciation and validation in return.
Don’t get me wrong, I LOVE online banking. And sure getting a payslip each fortnight feels reliable and can help you apply for a mortgage (if you’re so lucky).
But it does feel like, in this modern era, the whole human engagement behind the transaction has diminished. Particularly the demonstration and feeling of appreciation for goods and services. It’s probably why all the massive organisations have big HR teams battling to keep their staff feeling good about being employed.
Maybe that’s not how society has ever been, but I think today, being a self employed small business owner is about as close to that feeling as you can get.
It is the single biggest thing that has stood out to me after starting a business.
Each customer I have helped has expressed a profound joy and gratitude for my help – especially as I’m helping those people create their small business.
They are filled with excitement at what’s possible now that they have their website sorted and can start charging customers.
And I am genuinely excited for them too! I care a lot about helping them succeed, and find myself doing that little bit extra even if we didn’t originally discuss it, just because I can’t handle the idea of leaving them in the lerch.
But I can’t even describe how much better this feels.
To receive these ad hoc sporadic payments filled with gratitude, rather than simply seeing a salary pop into my bank account each fortnight from an employer.
I think maybe this is the way society is meant to be. People helping each other, and interacting with an exchange of joy and gratitude and acknowledgement.
Sure it’s not for everyone, so my wish for you all, is that you get that opportunity to experience someone truly appreciating your efforts and skill…
And also that you give that gift of that appreciation to someone else too.
Buy from a small business.
Support someone who is providing a home for themselves or their family. Not the faceless shareholders.
I GUARANTEE you that small business appreciates you as a customer too.