Marcus Clifford says finding clarity and courage in uncertainty is a constant challenge. Accepting absurdity certainly helps.
Embracing absurdity is a surprisingly effective strategy for business owners, particularly in uncertain or volatile environments. Taking an “absurdist” approach—rooted in accepting the unpredictable, chaotic nature of business—can be both practical and liberating.
Embracing absurdity means acknowledging that there is a lot about the world of business (and life) that doesn’t make logical sense. Recognising and accepting this can help avoid the constant pressure to control every outcome, freeing up mental and emotional resources to focus on what can be influenced.
One of the greatest strengths of our print sector is the sense of community when we stop and realise reaching out has a positive response.
Running a business is often portrayed as a powerful, inspiring journey—something full of promise and independence. Yet, for many business owners, the reality is far different: it’s an experience laced with loneliness, existential questions, and frequent leaps of faith. The inherent uncertainty of entrepreneurship means that while you make decisions with the best information you have, there are never guarantees. Every step forward involves courage, self-reliance, resilience, and a determination to carry on, even when clarity is elusive and the odds are unknown.
The Existential Landscape of Business
At its core, entrepreneurship holds a deeply existential quality. Each choice you make, from market shifts to financial investments, has the weight of possibility—and sometimes risk—without clear outcomes. Many business owners feel this daily: the pressure to steer their venture successfully, even as the path is obscured by unknowns. You might invest time, energy, and resources with the hope that it will pay off, but there are no promises. This is the leap of faith: moving forward in spite of uncertainty.
Existentialism teaches us that we create meaning through our actions and choices. In business, this manifests in the relentless pursuit of vision. Every decision reflects a belief that your work has significance, and every challenge faced becomes a testament to your commitment to that belief.
Seeking Clarity in Chaos
The nature of business ownership means that your mind is constantly engaged in problem-solving, assessing, and re-assessing decisions. The grind of daily operations can sometimes cloud the bigger picture. You can find yourself caught in an unending loop of ‘what ifs,’ trying to anticipate every possible outcome. Over time, this process can wear down even the most resilient.
In these moments, a business coach can serve as a critical sounding board. Having someone who understands the particularities of the print sector and the unique challenges you face can provide the guidance needed to untangle complexities. A business coach who has experienced the same late nights and hard calls understands the importance of clarity amid confusion. A business coach who is also a positive psychology coach and an existential life coach. They don’t just offer advice; they offer empathy and practical insights, helping you step back, refocus, and take that next step with renewed confidence.
Resilience and the Art of Moving Forward
While necessary, the daily grind of business ownership can sap your energy and morale over time. Staying motivated, especially in tough or monotonous times, requires a great deal of resilience. Building this resilience is a skill—a form of mental endurance—that keeps you grounded during turbulent times and strengthens your resolve to keep pushing forward, even on the difficult days.
Incorporating my “pep & tonic” sessions can help to re-energise both you and your team, giving everyone a much-needed booster. These sessions are designed to break the cycle of routine, inspire fresh perspectives, and build collective resilience. They serve as a space where you and your team can step back, gain clarity, and recharge your drive. Call me to discuss.
Consider my “pep & tonic” sessions. They’re designed to offer that essential boost, helping you reclaim clarity, strengthen resilience, and rediscover the courage to keep moving forward. Together, we’ll ensure that the journey—while challenging—becomes one of purpose and perseverance.
Call me for a conversation on how I can help. Marcus Clifford – The Printboosterologist. 0774 381 8806 marcus@printboosterologist.solutions
Deeds and actions speak the loudest! Another blog by Marcus Clifford
