Mindset Matters: Building Resilience and Success in the Cafe Industry. With Kelly Maniatis

Today, we speak with Kelly Maniatis, organisational psychologist who has been working with cafe owners for many years. In this episode, we will delve into the importance of developing a resilient mindset in overcoming the challenges faced by cafe owners, such as increased expenses, staff shortages, and long hours. We will also discuss strategies for retaining and attracting staff, staying relevant in a changing consumer mindset, and the role of emotions and ego in the cafe industry. So let's dive in and explore the mindset matters and how to become mentally stronger in the cafe industry.Key Takeaways: Developing a resilient mindset is crucial for cafe owners facing multiple challenges. A growth mindset allows for open thinking and problem-solving, while a closed mindset limits possibilities. Negative thinking can impact the body and lead to physical health issues. Cafe owners should focus on productivity and effectiveness rather than trying to maximise time. Retaining key staff members is more cost-effective than constantly recruiting and training new employees. Building strong relationships with employees and customers is essential for success in the cafe industry. Staying relevant requires understanding the changing mindset of consumers and constantly evolving strategies. Developing a Resilient MindsetKelly Maniatis emphasises the importance of developing a resilient mindset for cafe owners facing multiple crises simultaneously. She defines a resilient mindset as the ability to manage challenges without taking them personally, taking a step back, and approaching them with a positive and solution-oriented mindset. It is about bouncing back from setbacks and being open to learning and growth. Kelly highlights the impact of a closed mindset, which is fear-based and avoidant, on both the mind and body. She shares personal anecdotes about the physical toll that a closed mindset can have on cafe owners and emphasises the need to cultivate a growth mindset to handle challenges effectively.The Difference Between Closed and Growth MindsetKelly explains the difference between a closed mindset and a growth mindset, drawing on the work of Carol Dweck. A closed mindset is characterised by a standstill, status quo mentality, while a growth mindset is open to learning and opportunities. She emphasises the importance of focusing on growth and looking for opportunities rather than fixating on problems. Kelly also highlights the impact of a closed mindset on the body, leading to negative physical symptoms such as heart problems and autoimmune issues. She encourages cafe owners to be aware of their thinking patterns and to dial down negative self-talk while focusing on positive steps forward.
Overcoming Mindset TrapsCafe owners often fall into mindset traps, such as playing the victim or getting caught up in their own ego. Kelly advises cafe owners to be aware of these traps and offers tips for overcoming them. She suggests starting the day with positive intentions and being mindful of the thoughts and emotions that arise. By focusing on gratitude and problem-solving, cafe owners can shift their mindset and approach challenges with a more positive outlook. Kelly also emphasises the importance of separating the problem from the person, playing the issue rather than the individual. This shift in perspective can help cafe owners navigate challenges more effectively.The Impact of Emotions and EgoKelly discusses the impact of emotions and ego on the cafe industry. While emotions can be contagious and create emotional engagement with customers and employees, they can also be fear-based and detrimental to the mind and body. She highlights the need to regulate emotions and avoid getting caught up in ego-driven thinking. K