When the Game Changes: How to Handle Business Setbacks Like a Pro

This week, I’m writing to you from Chicago, where I’m attending the WhizBang Retail Mastermind group with some of the finest independent retailers in the US.

But before diving into all things business, I found myself at a hockey game between the Chicago Blackhawks and the Nashville Predators.

It turned out to be a game full of insights, not just for the fans but for us as business owners, too.

The Blackhawks came out strong, taking a commanding 2-0 lead just five minutes into the second period.

Things looked even brighter when they scored a third in the same period.

But then, the game shifted.

Nashville challenged the goal, and it was disallowed for offside.

That decision changed everything - the momentum visibly swung.

Within minutes, Nashville scored, clawing back into the game.

Eventually, they pulled ahead to win with two more goals in the final period.

What seemed like a sure victory for Chicago suddenly slipped away.

And it reminded me of being in business.

Often, things go smoothly; we’re in a rhythm, and the results follow.

But sometimes, out of nowhere, we’re blindsided by an unexpected challenge, and the momentum shifts.

When that happens, it’s easy for you to lose your focus or confidence.

Your “winning streak” can turn, and you need to find a way to get back on track.

Just like the best sports teams have strategies in place for when things don’t go as planned, you, as the business owner, need your own approach.

You can’t always predict every challenge.

But by preparing, staying calm, and having a process to fall back on, you can be ready for whatever comes your way.

In my own experience, the key has always been to remain focused.

To get back to basics.

And to take action - especially on the things you’d rather avoid!

I’ve learned so much from studying other businesses and how they’ve faced their own setbacks.

No one has all the answers, but being a lifelong learner can mean the difference between bouncing back or letting a single obstacle shake our confidence.

Being able to draw on others’ experiences really helps.

Along with learning from your own.

I’m sure there were huge learnings this week for the Blackhawk players and coach.

But it’s how they react and what they take from the experience that will shape their future.

And it’s the same for you.

So, this week, why not take a moment to think about your “game plan” for when the unexpected happens?

When the game changes, are you ready to adapt?

Have a great week.

Mark