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Ask Kathryn: Can a Ghost Ruin My Business?

Antiques can contain predecessor chi, good or bad.

Can a Ghost Ruin my Business?

Q: Is it possible for a ghost to ruin my business? I signed a 3 year lease in a large shopping mall to open an Indian Restaurant. The previous tenant was a Pizza Place. I cleaned the place and opened right away, 2 months ago. I’m losing money and no one comes in to eat. They look in, and walk away.  Can you help me from NYC?

A: I hesitate to blame your problem on a ghost; most likely you are experiencing negative chi-energy from the past owner. If you are taking over another person’s property or business, it is imperative that you imprint yourself, values and ethics into that space.

Chi-energy is something we cannot see, but we can ‘feel’; like positive or negative energy. While it is possible to figure out if your friends are in a good mood or a bad one, it is possible to sense when a property or building is holding energy from the past.

(I spoke directly with the lady who sent me this question, and looked at her photographs.) It was, and still is, painted red and black as if it still was a pizza parlor. The tables are clean, but hard and shiny. And, there is a large post blocking her main entrance into the mall. She has good wholesome food and is losing money.

She is wondering, in desperation, why no one wants to eat in her restaurant! ‘There is no budget for ‘frivolous decorations’. Perhaps there is a ghost!’ she expressed again and again. I don’t think there is a ghost.

Predecessor-chi from the last restaurant is still there.

What she can do now:

The front entrance has to be more welcoming; perhaps she can incorporate the imposing post into a display for the restaurant. Fresh flowers can attract people and a large welcome mat shows them the way inside.

Transformation and Imprinting has not been completed: It is difficult to use the same tables, the same paint and same kitchen facilities, and expect a change. Yes, a small budget should be set aside to adjust the restaurant atmosphere; the intention is to bring in new energy and attract new clients.

Atmosphere: this is the energy that you cannot see, but feel. If she wants to create a space for people to sit for a while and enjoy an Indian meal, she needs to bring in a softer and slower mood: table cloths and linen napkins, table decorations, then dim the lights and play soft music. Place room dividers or large plants to break up the cafeteria-style seating.

The particulars of the transformation will be unique to each business. Try something creative to bridge the change. Have you thought of having a ‘special menu’ once a week and feature a pizza? Or, getting more creative, a tandoori chicken pizza would be a great addition to the menu.

There is a chance of ghosts or spirits, but they probably don’t hang out in noisy restaurants. Plan ahead for a proper transition in your home or business and allow for the predecessor-chi to move out.

New businesses need time to grow AND new clients need time to find the niche and experience what you have to offer.

If you are sincerely doing everything right, your ethics are strong, and you seriously want to be part of the community,

…good chi-energy will always find its way to your door!

All the best,

Kathryn

~ Do you have a question for Kathryn? Contact: Kathryn@kathrynwilking.com

Kathryn of Kathryn Wilking Designs is a Professional Member of the IFSG (International Feng Shui Guild) Author, Stager and Feng Shui Consultant. kathrynwilking.com

Her recent book; Practical Feng Shui for the Office, is available in e-book and paperback.

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About Kathryn Wilking

Author, Home Stager, Feng Shui Consultant

Kathryn has inspired women for more than a decade to take charge of their lives; arranging their environment, home and office, to support a positive, prosperous lifestyle. She provides informative tips and talks to organizations and small groups through her Facebook Group and Blog Posts and recorded podcasts. Contact her today for more info about bringing the practical application of Feng Shui into your space.

Her book, Practical Feng Shui for the Office; never goes out of style!
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