How To Detail Full Time and Not Burn Out

[Mark Waldron]

I haven`t posted here in quite a while but I`m always checking in at Autopia to see what`s going on. I was reading a post regarding "burning out" detailing and here`s what I have found that works for me. First, get all the experimenting with different products narrowed down to a handful of products that you like and work consistently for the simple objectives of detaing. This took me many years of trial and error but I think I`ve got it. Second, get a structured system set up from start to finish of how you will go about actually detailing the car. This may seem monotinous but it adds comfort knowing that nothing has been missed and every car is treated the same way. Thirdly, never rush the job. It`s the end result that we`re after and the patience and persistence reaching this will give us our great sense of accomplishment. There are alot of people who think they can detail and then there are the ones who know they can detail.

Anything we do in life can become boring and tiring. It`s understanding why we enjoyed detailing when we first started that keeps us coming back again and again. We love the finished product!! And to prevent "burning out", we have to love the journey.

[imported_Picus]

Good post. I`d like to add that it is extremely important to take time off. Many detailers here, including me, seem to work 7 days a week for months on end, which can lead to burn out. Even one day a week off really, really helps keep you fresh. I went from March 8th through July 11th without a day off and was ready to jump off a building, a week off was all I needed to get right back into the swing of things.

[todd@bsaw]

Funny that you post this now. I am finally sitting down for the first time today and I`ve been here since 8am. That`s right, a 14 hour day. I find that I get burned out more on a short term basis than perpetual day to day work. Today I had two complete details (one a Black Suburban!), a wash & wax for a regular client, and 3 maintenance washes in between all this.



Sure, it makes up for the rainy days where I have one appointment all day, but sometimes I wish it were spread out just a little more. Back again at 8am tomorrow for another long day. But you are correct... every car I finished today I left with a satisfaction that every single vehicle that came into my shop today left above the clients expectations. That`s what keeps me accepting more jobs.



Edit: By the way, my uncle lives in Slinger. He owns a couple

`72 Challengers if you ever see them around. Wonderful town.

[Superior Shine]

Just when I think I am burned out I look at my bills. That seems to motivate me pretty good.







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