From burnout to Instagram overwhelm, local businesses are facing real challenges but practical tools and community support are on the rise.

Small business champion Glenn Haworth from Resolve Coaching is bringing three workshops to The Pavilion in Kiama next Friday (12 December), covering mindset, supercharging your Instagram and “AI for everyday life” with subsidised places available through the NSW Government’s Targeted Skills for Business Program.

He told The Bugle about the challenges facing business owners and the simple shifts that can make the biggest difference.

What common challenges have local businesses faced in 2025?

A big one is awareness - people simply don’t know you exist. Attention is on phones, usually social media, so growing an audience has never been more important.

Showing up, being authentic and human is key.

When you create content that’s educational, entertaining or emotional - the three Es, you connect with people.

Stress and burnout are big for business owners. What are your tips for releasing pressure, especially in the lead-up to the silly season?

Mindset needs to be prioritised, and it often isn’t.

Do the things that fill your cup: walk, run, see friends, do something just for you.

Without you, there is no business and everyone loses when you’re not at your best.

Feed your mind like you feed your body: listen to podcasts, be around inspiring people, and show up with the right energy.

How can working parents get clear on their goals when they’re juggling everything?

I call it “embrace the mess.” You might be in that season. I had a Zoom call this week and my four-year-old wandered in to say hi.

Kids are learning from how you deal with challenges, and it’s all a teachable moment. Sometimes you just have to embrace the season - and the mess - for what it is.

What daily habits help build momentum?

Look at your goals every day. Create a compelling vision board. Sort your morning routine - I go to the gym, review my goals and often meditate. I also rewrite my goals daily in my diary every day.

How can we support the local small business community in 2026 and beyond?

Show up. This community is what you make it. Support events, shop local, build relationships, bring good energy.

If you’re a business owner, create community-building moments — like Beau at Kiama Cycles with his monthly rides or Kel at The Sea & Beau with her shopping events. When we all show up, Kiama thrives.

For more information, visit: kcc.nsw.edu.au/courses/business-bootcamps