If you don’t feel like yourself in your business, this is for you.
Did you know that many inflatable manufacturers feel trapped, demotivated, or “switched off,” despite their talent and experience? This might have nothing to do with the market… and everything to do with you.
In this article, we’ll explore a topic rarely discussed in our industry: the loss of your authentic self — and how it impacts creativity, productivity, and even your ability to close deals.
Yes, this is personal. But it’s also practical. And it could change everything.
What Does “Losing Your Authentic Self” Mean?
It’s when you stop acting according to what you truly feel and start living on “autopilot” just to please others, avoid conflict, or survive in a competitive environment.
At its core, you stop being you.
And why does this happen?
- To maintain attachment and acceptance (from family, colleagues, clients…)
- To avoid feelings of rejection, shame, or failure
- Because you learned early on that “showing who you are” could be risky
How This Affects Your Inflatable Business
If you’ve lost touch with your true self, you’re likely sabotaging yourself without realising it. Here’s how this might manifest:
1. Lack of Innovation in Your Designs
Creating something new requires authenticity. Without it, you’re just replicating what others are already doing.
2. Constant Fear of Being Judged
You have fresh ideas but don’t launch them because “they won’t work” or “no one will like them”? That’s your false self controlling you.
3. You’re Working Harder but Feeling Less
You produce, sell, deliver… but feel no pride. No joy. Like something’s missing? That’s your authentic self being silenced.
4. Superficial Professional Relationships
When you don’t know who you are, you can’t form genuine connections with colleagues, clients, or suppliers.
How to Become an Authentic (and Unstoppable) Manufacturer
If this resonates with you, don’t worry—there’s a way out. Reclaiming your authenticity is a process, and yes, it directly impacts your business.
✅ Practical Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Recognise Your Patterns
Start by observing: When do you hold back? When do you people-please? When do you repeat habits that no longer serve you?
2. Embrace Your Imperfections
We’re all “perfectly imperfect.” What you see as a flaw today could be your greatest creative strength.
3. Explore New Ideas Without Judgement
Sketch that quirky design. Write that personal post. Talk about what drives you. Authenticity is magnetic.
4. Own Your Story
Everything you’ve been through has shaped you. When you embrace it, you become stronger—and clients sense that.
5. Make Space for Yourself in Your Business
Take a break. Redesign your brand. Or just breathe. But include yourself in the equation. Your business is an extension of you.
Real-Life Example from the Industry (Anonymous but Inspiring)
An independent manufacturer from Latin America shared that after years of copying Chinese designs “because that’s what sold,” they decided to create their own line, inspired by childhood memories. The result?
Sales dipped at first… but they gained a loyal following. Today, they’re sought after by larger companies for collaborations. It all started when they chose to be authentic.
Between the Lines
In the inflatable industry, it often seems like there’s only room for productivity, sales, and delivering “what the market wants.” But the manufacturers who thrive aren’t the ones who produce the most—they’re the ones who know who they are.
Reclaiming your authenticity isn’t just a personal journey. It’s a business strategy. Because no one can copy you when you’re creating from within.
If you want to stand out in the market, start with yourself.
Inflated Greetings!
Did you like this content? To stay up-to-date with all the news, follow our social networks in the footer.
FAQ’s about the World of Inflatables
