Gill Gayk's 2021 Summer Business Plans

Today we're talking to Gill Gayk who is a business Coach & NLP practitioner who is the founder of GMG Business Coaching based in Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire (but virtually anywhere!).

May is the last month of Spring – how has Spring been for you so far? 

I’d say the mood in business has been very much aligned to the spring weather; chilly start a bit sluggish, and blooming late, but beautifully now as we head into late May.  Optimism is in the air everywhere.

What are your plans for the Summer – for your business and for you? 

For the obvious reasons it has been hard to predict how the year will develop.  The usual peaks and troughs are all out of whack.  My approach is always to stick to the goal, the ‘what’ and ‘why’ has not changed, but we do need to be flexible and adjust the ‘how’.  

That has been clearly demonstrated by those businesses that have successfully adapted to operate on-line, either partially or completely. This summer I shall remain open and flexible, working with my clients and helping them adapt to customer and market needs.  

When the opportunity affords, I will definitely take a break to visit the friends we have missed.  

What are you most looking forward this summer which you had to step away from last summer? 

I had planned to walk The Ridgeway from Ivinghoe Beacon to Avebury last year, so really looking forward to attempting this over several weekends across the summer this year.  

During lockdown 1 and actually 2 and 3, we managed to network like crazy on-line and make some fabulous connections. There is a road trip in mind so we can actually meet in person and explore some collaboration.

May is National Walking Month, and walking was an activity which was one thing we could do over the last 12 months. Please share your walking experiences in recent years. 

Did you know that our bodies are designed to walk? Forget all the cycling or jogging malarkey, walking is good for us in so many ways; mentally, emotionally and physically.  

On a whim I signed up for the Isle of Wight Challenge in 2017, a 106km coastal path walk, jog or run. I chose to walk it over 2 days – it’s a long way! Luckily I did train a little for it but really did not know what I was letting myself in for; quite probably the best thing. The coastal walk and views around the island are absolutely stunning but my goodness it is a lot of ups and downs. I think my Fitbit thought I had climbed 92 floors on the second morning.  

I did however summon up the energy to run across the finish line, and then couldn’t move for a week! Despite that it gave me a tremendous feeling of achievement. For that alone I would recommend it. Challenge yourself, set that goal.  

Where is your favourite place to walk? 

I definitely prefer walks by the water, at home close to the river Thame, but choose the Dorset coast when I can.

Can you name one day in May which is important for you in your business or in your personal life? Why is that date important? 

May 1st plays a significant part in my life. I spent ten years living in Germany and this has shaped my life and career – the first day in Germany was 1st May and a couple of years later the day my eldest son was born. It is always a public holiday in Europe - International Workers Day, a double celebration in our house!  

Have you got any events planned for the coming months which you’d like to mention – where you and/or your business will take a leading role? 

With the unpredictability that surrounds us at the moment it may seem a real challenge to make any plans. NOW more than ever is the time to learn the art of #goalsetting, whether for your personal or business life. Attend our Introduction to Goal Mapping Session and discover a new way of achieving what your heart really desires using a tried and tested system. It is a super tool and endorsed by guru to the stars Tony Robbins. It’s an online lunch & learn, find a comfy chair, grab a sandwich and drink. See here for more info: https://bit.ly/IntroGoalMappingJune

Are you attending (have you booked) any events at all for you as a business person, or for you personally that you are really looking forward to? 

To avoid disappointment, we are going for spontaneity and supporting local events for the time being. Thame Town Music Festival is in the calendar for July. Also rather excited to have been invited to a wedding at the end of May, all things being equal and 30 people can gather outside.  

What’s your one top business tip to help others be positive about their business in May 2021? 

It is well known that adversity leads to creativity – think outside the box, be bold be audacious and explore options that seem crazy. My top tip is employ a business coach, you will be in great company e.g. the likes of Richard Branson. Top athletes and the most successful executives have one – an external perspective and independent sounding board will give you the edge.

Tell us all one funny thing about you which we won’t know and you are happy to share (make us laugh!).

One of my funniest moments was at a prestigious event at Clivedon House, trying to make a good impression and show off my professionalism. Then as we talked about a second meeting and connecting, I reached for my business card and proudly presented a …..Pokémon card. All efforts crushed.

And finally:

While you are out walking, why not take the opportunity to listen to this fabulous podcast… chatting with people like you, some top business tips and plenty of laughs. Business Buzz Podcast, Old Dogs & New Tricks https://podcast.mybuzz.uk.