Earlier this week in the office, the conversation naturally turned to Christmas plans. For most, it was the usual: traveling upcountry, enjoying nyama choma, and spending time with family. But Steve Njooro, founder of Soft Sage(Paid), and an incubatee here at @iBizAfrica, brought us back to the entrepreneurial reality, saying, “For me, the holiday season is a workday—just on overdrive.” His platform, which helps businesses capture client information, reward loyalty points, and send personalized communications, embodies the hustle many entrepreneurs face during this time.
For entrepreneurs, the holiday season is not just another month—it is often the busiest and most important time of the year. With Black November sales, Christmas shopping chaos, and back-to-school prep right after New Year’s, the pace can feel non-stop. To help you make it through, we reached out to some experienced entrepreneurs to share their best tips. Here is what they had to say:
1. Build Systems to Stay Organized
For entrepreneurs, the busy seasons—like December holidays or the back-to-school rush—can often feel overwhelming, with endless tasks piling up. Managing everything from inventory to customer interactions can be a challenge. This is where systems come in, offering the structure needed to stay on top of things without losing focus on what matters most.
According to Business Dasher, 90% of Small and Medium Businesses (SMBs) rely on digital tools to streamline operations . For instance, a retail business can use a platform like TallyPrime to track inventory and avoid running out of stock, while a healthcare professional might use systems like Daktari a Quick One (Psychcare Clinic) to speak with patients and organize appointments. These tools reduce the burden of repetitive tasks, allowing you to direct your energy toward growth and customer relationships.
However, it is important to remember that systems are enablers, not replacements. The human touch—a friendly smile, personalized recommendations, or a simple WhatsApp follow-up—remains irreplaceable. While systems handle the operational load, your unique ability to connect with customers is what creates loyalty and keeps them coming back.
At the end of the day, success is about balancing efficiency with authenticity. Use systems to work smarter, not harder, and let your personal touch shine through.
2. Prioritize the Customer
We have all heard, “The customer is always right,” and let us be honest—it is not always true. But behind that saying is a powerful truth: your customer is the heart of your business. Without them, even the best product or service does not matter. Customers give you valuable feedback, stay loyal to your brand, and spread the word to others. For entrepreneurs, recognizing this is essential—it is the key to building a business that grows and lasts.
In Building a StoryBrand by Donald Miller, the customer is the hero of your story, the protagonist you are here to help. This perspective shifts the focus from what you are selling to why it matters to them. Entrepreneurs who embrace this mindset create deeper connections, resonate with their audience, and, ultimately, stand out in a crowded market.
This holiday season, make your customers feel like the VIPs they are. Roll out Christmas offers, create exclusive products, or make it super simple for them to find that perfect gift. The effort you put into prioritizing your customers today could turn them into loyal ambassadors tomorrow. In a competitive season, this loyalty can mean the difference between a one-time purchase and a long-term relationship.
And as one of our resident mentors, Robert Yawe, often says, “Without a customer, your product or service is just a hobby.” It’s a reminder that the value of what you offer is measured by the impact it creates for your customers. Keep them at the center, and your business will always have purpose and direction.
3. Take Care of Yourself
“Let me tell you something Maina: burnout is real”. You cannot pour from an empty cup. So breathe, take a step back, and remember to find that sweet spot between running your business and enjoying some you-time.
It is still the holidays—so go touch grass (literally) and be with your family and friends. Trust me, the new year hustle is not going anywhere, so pace yourself. Your well-being is just as important as your business’s success.
Research shows that work-life balance has a direct impact on productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall health. Entrepreneurs are no different. In fact, Gallup reports that individuals with a balanced work-life schedule are 21% more productive than those who do not prioritize balance.
December is no joke for entrepreneurs. It is busy, it is chaotic, but it is also a chance to shine. Whether you are running a side hustle, a small business, or scaling up something big, these tips can help you not just survive but thrive. And as you hustle, remember this: the best gift you can give your business (and yourself) is balance.
Go get it—but do not forget to take care of yourself too.