- By riverdesign
- In 11-09-2026
small business lessons from a summer camp director
I spent ten summers running a summer camp, and those years taught me more about business than any book or course. One thing I learned is how to make a product work in a challenging environment. We had limited storage, extreme temperatures, and hundreds of kids to keep happy and hydrated. Our drink station was a vital part of camp life, and we used a lot of powdered drink mixes. I recall one particularly successful product, which came in flavor aid pitcher packs, making it easy to prepare large quantities of flavored drinks. This was a huge help, given our water and storage constraints.
keeping it simple
Simplicity is vital when you’re dealing with a large and rowdy group of kids. I realized early on that complicated systems and overly complex products just don’t work well in this setting. The powdered drink mixes were a great example of this: they were easy to use and required minimal equipment, which made them perfect for our camp. I’ve carried this lesson over into my own business, where I prioritize simplicity and ease of use in all of our products and services.
the importance of flexibility
When you’re running a summer camp, you need to be prepared for anything. The weather can change in an instant, and you have to be able to adapt quickly. This flexibility is also essential in business, where things don’t always go according to plan. I learned to think on my feet and come up with creative solutions to unexpected problems, skills that have served me well in my own business ventures.
managing inventory and supplies
At the summer camp, we had to carefully manage our inventory and supplies to ensure that we had enough of everything without wasting resources. This involved keeping track of what we had in stock, what we needed to order, and when. It was a complex process, but it taught me the importance of effective inventory management in any business. By keeping a close eye on our supplies, we were able to avoid running out of essential items and reduce waste.
staff training and support
As a summer camp director, I knew that my staff was the key to success. I made sure they had the training and support they needed to do their jobs effectively, which included knowing how to use our equipment and products. This emphasis on staff training has carried over into my own business, where I prioritize providing my employees with the tools and knowledge they need to excel in their roles.
lessons learned
Running a summer camp was a challenging but rewarding experience that taught me many valuable lessons about business. From the importance of simplicity and flexibility to the need for effective inventory management and staff training, these lessons have stayed with me and continue to influence my approach to business today. By applying these principles, I’ve been able to build a successful and sustainable business that I’m proud of.
- Keep things simple and easy to use
- Be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances
- Manage your inventory and supplies carefully
- Provide your staff with the training and support they need to succeed
- Stay focused on your goals and priorities
These lessons, learned in the unlikely environment of a summer camp, have been invaluable in my own business endeavors, and I believe they can be applied to any business or organization.