A Word of Advice: My Business Affected due to Pandemic

Hi Kally, 

I hope you and your family are well and healthy during this horrible pandemic period. Myself isn’t doing so well. I’m not sick but I’m so stressed everyday that I am going to make myself sick. I’m so stressed out over the possibility of losing my business to Covid-19. 

For the last five years, I have owned a small music production studio and I am doing bakery lessons over weekends and lull period.

In December, my partner wanted to back out from our studio due to personal reasons. I let him cash out his share which I used part of the mortgage from my house. My bakery lessons was picking up during the holiday seasons and I was doing 3 lessons per day everyday so I decided to close the studio for a while until I can find another partner to take over the other half of the business. 

As you now know what happen, the pandemic ruined my plans for 2020. My studio is still shut while I’m paying rental every month. Students stopped coming during lockdown restrictions and I couldn’t do any bakery lessons. I am not earning any income at all since March until now. I still have my house mortgage to pay off. Luckily, my wife is still working with a stable monthly income. It is not a lot but it will get us through the bills and groceries. If she loses her job, we are going down. We have no savings to call upon. Whatever we had before in the bank was to pay the renovations of our home and to start the music production business. 

All these worries, it has started to affect my health. I couldn’t sleep at all, my appetite dropped and an old back injury returned. 

What else can I do? Please help. 

With blessings, 
John E.


Hi John, 

I’m so sorry to hear that you are not doing so well. This pandemic has everyone worrying about their health and future. People worried about keeping their jobs while business owners like yourself worried about staying afloat. 

Firstly, have you seek any financial assistance from the government in your area / country? I know plenty of governments are doling out financial aid for folks like you to sustain their businesses as well as personal relief aids to cover mortgages and put food on the table.

Depending which country you are in, I’d say go to your government websites and do a little research. Applications like aids usually will take some time before it is granted and released to you. So it’s better to get it started now. 

Next, let’s do something about your studio. During this lockdown, I’m afraid there may not be a way for you to reopen your studio for any kind of music production businesses however, there are still ways to earn some bits of income.

A good example is to rent your studio out to people who need storage places. Or even a temporary quarantine place away from their family members who may be living under the same roof. (Just make sure you engage a professional cleaning company to sanitise the place when the lease is up.) 

If your studio is in a good central location, it will be attractive for its accessibility. Typically now that it is hard to travel anywhere far. Desperate times calls for creativity. You can even rent out on a short term basis just to make sure you cover rental. 

Now for your bakery lessons, since your students can’t come to you, why not bring the lessons to them? Ask your regular students to sign up for an online course hosted by you. You can stream yourself live baking cakes and cookies. Or record your lessons and sell them online. The best part is that after your online lessons, you can sell your bakery goods around the neighbourhood to share some joy and earn some extra cash as well. Every cent counts, right? 

Lastly, this may sound almost impossible but you need to remain positive. These may be hard times but we humans are ingenious and resilient. We will find a way out of this difficult situation. Don’t let negativity get in the way of creativity. The business landscape has already shifted and a lot of businesses are cracking their heads to shift their operations online. The earlier you embrace this change, the sooner you’ll bounce back with great ideas of your own. 

Best of luck and let me know how it goes. If you need someone to brainstorm with you, just drop me an email again anytime. 

Regards,
Kally 


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100 Comments Add yours

  1. excellent advice kelly.

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much and welcome to MiddleMe!

      Liked by 1 person

  2. Sheree says:

    Great advice!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thanks, Sheree.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much for this award.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. SONAL MISHRA says:

        My heartily pleasure ❤️❤️❤️❤️

        Liked by 1 person

  3. Simon says:

    That’s truly a great advice for entrepreneurs that suffers from this pandemic. Have a wonderful weekend Kally ✨💐

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much, Simon. Have you onboarded yet? Hope everything goes smoothly for you. Cheers, bro!

      Like

      1. Simon says:

        Hi Kally, Thank you again ☺️ My onboarding is complete, prejoining happened yesterday and I’ll be joining on Tuesday until then it’s officially holiday. It’s going to be work from home from Monday, Later depends on government decision they’ll ask me to come to office 😉 so officially I’m reporting to my team from Tuesday 🤗 Thank you so much for the wishes Kally🤗✨ Happy Weekend ✨

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Kally says:

          Yay!!!!! It so good to hear that you’ve made progress in the new company. Meanwhile, have a good rest this weekend and be prepare for a brand new week when you report to work. Best of Luck! I’m rooting for you!

          Liked by 1 person

          1. Simon says:

            Thank you so much for the kind words and wishes Kally, means a LOT 🥰 🤗

            Liked by 1 person

  4. zayking12 says:

    We are all into this! Thanks for the advice. ❤️

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much and welcome to MiddleMe!

      Like

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you, Judy. How are you holding up so far?

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Judy Kim says:

        Hi Kally, you’re welcome. I’ve been working remotely and homeschooling my son, it feels like time stood still. Still sad about losing my mom to cancer but I know she’s at peace now. Where I live things are slowly starting to reopen, I’m relived. How are you? I hope you’ve been well.

        Liked by 2 people

        1. Kally says:

          My condolences on your loss. You are a strong person. It’s good that you are coming to terms that your mother is in peace and not in pain anymore.

          How’s homeschooling for you? Did you enjoy it? For me, I love every minute that I am teaching my 3 year old.

          The lockdown here in Malaysia is slowly opening up as well. The restaurants are opening up to having dine in options but with restrictions. Children are still not allowed in public though. So we have been taking turns to do our groceries because someone has to watch the kid, can’t leave the babysitting to my cats. Lol!

          Liked by 1 person

          1. Judy Kim says:

            Thank you. It’s hard to know my mom’s gone but I think of her often and feel her presence when I see things she liked, they remind me of her.

            Homeschooling has been challenging, lots of zoom lessons that were chaotic. My child is 10 and likes to read so I’ve been focusing on reading/writing mostly but not other subjects.

            We get confusing messages about the lockdown, things are supposed to be reopening but it’s unclear to me. Masks are mandatory indoors and children can be outside here in US/California.

            Liked by 2 people

          2. Kally says:

            Your mom is never really gone. She lives in your heart and your memories. If you feel her presence, it is because she’s watching over you. Like all mothers, we can never truly let go. 🙂

            It is alright to focus on reading and writing. Something that your kid enjoys. Don’t worry too much about catching up the curriculum. I’m pretty sure his school will readjust the curriculum once it reopens. I don’t think Zoom lessons are really beneficial to kids. My daughter’s playschool tried to do Zoom lessons, I tried it with her once and I decided to opt out. I don’t think she learns anything from the half an hour.

            Same here on the confusing messages we get here in Malaysia. Children are not allowed outside at all, not even to parks or swimming pools, which is a shame. Masks although not mandatory here but highly encouraged. Companies are still not operating on full strength, most of them are encouraging staff to go on a rotational basis.

            Liked by 1 person

          3. Judy Kim says:

            Thank you, Kally. 🙂Mothers are our first connection to life, they’re so important in our past and present❤️.

            That a relief to hear your opinion of the zoom classes, I agree. I thought it was already a stressful situation and I didn’t want to add more stress.

            The uncertainty and change of information seems worldwide, I think California will open slowly. It’s become a political issue in the US.

            Liked by 1 person

          4. Kally says:

            I heard that it is very messy over in the States. Seriously, I do hope that everyone puts their health in serious priority wayyy in front of politics. Nothing is more important than your own well being.

            Please do stay safe and sane. Don’t worry so much whether your child learns anything. Learning will catch up eventually but time won’t. So spend time cuddling, imagining and laughing. Once a week, we will huddled together as a family and binge watch cartoon movies on Sunday mornings.

            Liked by 1 person

          5. Judy Kim says:

            Thank you for the reassurance, you’re right time is precious and focused learning can happen later. It has been good to spend time with my son, like a vacation without traveling.

            Liked by 1 person

          6. Kally says:

            Your son is fortunate to have such a good and caring mother like you.

            Like

          7. Kally says:

            Anytime you feel like having a chat or want someone to vent to, drop me an email or Facebook message me. I’m all ears 👂

            Liked by 1 person

          8. Judy Kim says:

            Thank you, Kally. You’re very kind and you give good advice, I appreciate your support! ❤️🙂

            Liked by 1 person

          9. Kally says:

            We are nothing but friends who gives support to each other. 🙂 Sometimes it is easier to talk/vent to someone faceless and isn’t part of your social group.

            Liked by 1 person

          10. Judy Kim says:

            Yes I agree. I share information on my blog that I wouldn’t share with people who know me in person. That’s interesting that we feel more comfortable with sharing with online friends. 🙂

            Liked by 1 person

          11. Kally says:

            I guess it is because we don’t really care as much who judge us since online friends are faceless souls. Whereas to our friends in real life, we are more careful in how we presented ourselves to them.

            Liked by 1 person

  5. Hmm, HOW ABOUT making GOD a “silent partner.”

    Nothing happens by “accident or coincidences” (those are therm to quickly solve mysteries; not reality)

    Life is not supposed to be easy precisely so THAT we will find God and make Him a BIG part of our lives.

    God then does not promise “no-more crosses”; But hang with Him and He WILL help you carry them
    Friend I do wish you the best; DO what YOU can, and then leave it up to God.
    May God Be with you,
    Patrick

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      To add in one more: Find inner peace in your heart.

      Thank you, Patrick. I will make sure my friend read your comment. Stay bless and safe.

      Like

  6. DutchIl says:

    Thank you for sharing!!.. change is the law of life no matter the reason… those who will use their knowledge to adapt to change will evolve, perhaps even better than before… 🙂

    “Consult not your fears but your hopes and your dreams. Think not about your frustrations, but about your unfulfilled potential. Concern yourself not with what you tried and failed in, but with what it is still possible for you to do…” Pope John XXIII

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for sharing the inspiring quote by the Pope! Have a great and safe weekend.

      Like

  7. Elia Santos says:

    Excelente entrada Kally, muy buen consejo.
    Saludos 🤗

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Gracias! 🤗

      Like

  8. Good posting, Kally! Hope you are well and stay save. Enjoy the weekend. Michael

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much, Michael. How have you been coping? Well wishes to you and your loved ones. Stay happy and healthy.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Thank you very much, Kally! Its going on here. The basic rural structure has not shown a lot of the lockdown. Best wishes to you and yours too.Be well and enjoy life.

        Liked by 1 person

  9. Great advice! I pray that your business becomes even more successful

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for reading and commenting. It is a source of motivation for my friend.

      Like

  10. Bea dM says:

    You are really remarkable at giving excellent advice to people in difficult situations! Bravissima!

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you, Bea. I hope that my advice to him will give him some hope and cheer him up.

      Liked by 1 person

  11. AmyRose🌹 says:

    God bless you, Kelly, for helping others at a time like this. I have tears in my eyes. xo

    Liked by 3 people

    1. Kally says:

      Big hugs. I hope you are coping well during this pandemic. Stay safe and blessed.

      Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for sharing your success with us.

      Liked by 1 person

  12. Great advice Kally. I hope he puts it to use. These times have been hard on most folks. Sighs.
    I pray this all goes off soonest.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for your prayers. What he and many others need are hope and helpful advice now.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. You are welcome Kally. 🤗
        Yes – hope + advice!

        Liked by 2 people

  13. Great advice Caz and I hope John is able to use some of it to make his life a bit easier during this God-awful pandemic! I feel for anyone in this situation. Caz x

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you, dear. He is quite hopeful now and I have spoken to him this afternoon. His wife is looking at applying for financial help.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Aaaww, brilliant! Well done Caz x

        Liked by 2 people

  14. Good advice! If his studio is set up for music, it might also make a great site for filming classes.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Ooooo… that is a great suggestion. I better forward this idea to him now.

      Liked by 1 person

  15. Kally, no doubt the pandemic has worked its way into every nook and cranny of our society, our lives. And, as we all wait for it to subside through a vaccine, we must all try and make the most of it. Stay safe and well, my fellow writer.

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you very much for your kind words, Lance. Please stay safe and healthy.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Always a very sincere pleasure, Kally. Thank you. Be safe and well! Blessings.

        Liked by 1 person

  16. Edward Tan says:

    Intelligent words and valuable advice!

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you, Edward! How are you coping in this pandemic?

      Liked by 1 person

      1. Edward Tan says:

        i’m fine, thanks for asking. Have been working from home for two months but back to office these days 🙂 how are things on your side?

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Kally says:

          Things have been slowly but surely going back to normal but we are still very cautious especially we heard about how Korea closed their schools due to a rise in positive cases after they reopen recently.

          Like

  17. editorbikash says:

    intelligent word and valuable advice

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much and welcome to MiddleMe!

      Like

  18. myplace3187 says:

    Hello Kally I have Nominated you for ” The Amazing Follower Award ” ! This is on my page now. I hope you will take part in this my friend.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much. I’m so honored to be nominated by you.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. myplace3187 says:

        You are so very welcome Kally. I appreciate you following me. You are always so kind and warm hearted and honest with everyone. Thank you Kally !

        Liked by 1 person

  19. Some businesses bombed

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Yes, indeed.

      Like

  20. Another great post Kally! Slowly but surely the returns are happening!💕☕️💦

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Absolutely. I’m looking forward to the day we are 99% back to normal.

      Liked by 1 person

      1. I am with you Kally! We’re beginning to look like aliens! 👽

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Kally says:

          I think I look like a panda more, with all those eating and no exercises.

          Liked by 1 person

          1. Pandas are too cute to be aliens.!👍🌺

            Liked by 1 person

  21. Interesting stuff to read. Keep it up. Nice information.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you.

      Like

  22. amidugedson says:

    Things will be normal eventually but for now we need to be creative and full of of hope in order to survive

    Liked by 2 people

    1. Kally says:

      Hopefully soon. We all need to be positive.

      Liked by 1 person

  23. Mani says:

    Hello Kally i was reading your post and i want to suggest you join online classes and start doing online business. there is a lot of ways to join and promote your business online globally….

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Hi Mani, thanks for the advice. It is actually not me but one of my reader who wrote in. 🙂

      Liked by 1 person

  24. Thanks for the advice. Have a wonderful day Kally.

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you and welcome to MiddleMe!

      Like

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for sharing this out.

      Like

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you for sharing this out!

      Like

  25. This is a really good piece of advice! I really liked it when you said that we humans are ingenious and resilient, I think we don’t give ourselves enough credit for how adaptable we have been in this pandemic! I look forward to reading more blogs from you!

    Feel free to read some of my blogs as well 🙂

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much, Niraj and welcome to MiddleMe! I shall pop over to your blog right now.

      Like

  26. Really great information for businesses effected by this pandemic. Nicely done!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Thank you so much!

      Like

  27. thank you. please help me out about my business
    https://mghdistributors.com/

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      Hey there. What’s wrong with your business?

      Like

  28. Great advice Kelly! Hope John is going through a better time now. Stay safe!

    Liked by 1 person

    1. Kally says:

      John is getting better. Slowly but he is thinking positive.

      Like

      1. I’m glad to hear that Kally ❤️ You’re suggestions were very inspiring and doable! You did a great job.

        Liked by 1 person

        1. Kally says:

          Thank you, Mithai! Keep being positive.

          Like

  29. *Kally
    Sorry typo ❤

    Like

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