Praying For California
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Happy February 2025, JVB Consults Readers!
This month, I find it difficult to focus on anything but the devastating wildfires tearing through California. As a business owner in this state, watching our communities and cities burn is gut-wrenching. My heart is heavy, and my thoughts are with everyone who has been impacted—those who have lost homes, livelihoods, and cherished memories.
To my fellow business owners and entrepreneurs who have seen their hard work reduced to ashes, I want to say this: Please Don’t Be Too Hard On Yourself. Don’t second-guess the choices that led you here or question whether you should keep going. This disaster does not define your vision or your worth. Take this time to grieve, reflect, and care for yourself and your loved ones. Allow yourself the grace to feel your feelings and know that healing doesn’t happen on anyone else’s timeline.
This is a bump in the road. It’s okay to pause, to take stock, and to rebuild at your own pace. The resilience within you has carried you this far, and it will carry you through this, too.
For those who feel ready to take small steps forward, here are a few resources that might be helpful:
FEMA: Provides disaster assistance for individuals and businesses affected by natural disasters.
U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA): Offers federal disaster grants for repairing or replacing damaged property and covering economic injury.
California Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs): Provide free, one-on-one advising to help small businesses recover and adjust operations.
Additionally, I urge you to revisit your business insurance policies. Many policies include wildfire coverage, and you may be surprised at the protection available to you. Don’t overlook this critical step—it could be a pivotal resource in your recovery.
To everyone affected by these horrendous wildfires—whether you’ve lost your home, your business, or both—my heart is with you.
Please remember: This Is a Temporary Disaster, Not a Permanent Defeat.
Until Next Time,
Be Kind With Yourself. Be Patient With Yourself.
All My Best,
JVB
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