Being an entrepreneur has It’s benefits but it certainly isn’t for the faint of heart. There are many unexpected challenges, setbacks, and disappointments that you’ll face along the way.
For the most part though, Entrepreneurship can be extremely rewarding and can have massive impact on your financial situation. It’s common though to lose motivation from time-to-time and because of this, It’s important to figure out what drives you and really use it to propel you further.
Real motivation comes from within and the key to lasting success is to achieve a healthy balance between your business pursuits and personal growth. Your inner hunger, ambition, and essentially your “why”, will be what will sustain you during the down times.
Regardless of it all, you must keep going even when you don’t feel like it and even as you face various obstacles.
Here are 4 ways to stay motivated as an Entrepreneur:
1. Set aside time for self-care
As an Entrepreneur, It’s common to find yourself working more than most people and spending long-hours overseeing the operations of your business.
Doing this without consciously taking time out for yourself however, can cause burnout and stress. It’s important to use the “off” switch, rest your mind, and take care of yourself physically and emotionally.
The only way to get your work done and maintain a sense of balance is to take regular breaks throughout the day and do other things such as meditating, taking a bath, reading, and resting.
Taking these short breaks and focusing on yourself will certainly go a long way in helping you re-fuel your inner ambition and drive while helping you avoid burnout. Be “ok” with putting work off for a bit while you take care of yourself first.
2. Feed your inspiration
It’s common to have days where you’re unmotivated and lazy. Instead of moping around, find inspirational content such as quotes, videos, books, etc..and become immersed in whatever it is you’re reading or listening to.
Find successful people you resonate with and find motivation in their words of wisdom. This can immensely help with feelings of worthlessness, boredom, and can quickly remind you why you started in the first place.
Remember, It’s common to get into a negative state of mind every now and then as an Entrepreneur. We must continuously keep ourselves positive and motivated. This does take effort but It’s worth it.
3. Start networking with like-minded people
Surrounding yourself with others on the same mission as you can be extremely beneficial in helping you stay focused and positive.
These people can help hold you accountable to your goals and actions while providing you with constructive feedback and offering suggestions to improve in your business. These people may also share their own struggles and sympathize with yours as well.
There are many different ways to network such as starting or attending a local mastermind group, hiring help, or simply engaging in meaningful conversations online. Find what works best for you and your schedule and one make time everyday or at least a few hours for it.
4. Remember your “why”
If there’s one thing that will keep you going on those tough days, It’s your WHY or in other words, your mission. Ideally, your mission and outlook for your company should encompass more than your daily goals.
Your “why” is ultimately your vision for your company and your future. Always keep that vision in your mind and think about it daily. This is usually the driving force behind any business and what keeps business owners motivated and driven.
It’s common to forget what our end-goal is which is why we must remind ourselves, daily. For me personally, I enjoy journaling and writing down all the things I wish to accomplish while also remembering all of the things I already have and expressing gratitude for them.
If there’s one thing that brings a business together it’s a clear vision and mission. Ideally, your mission and vision should encompass more than your immediate goals. It should be a far-reaching and inspiring goal that will be the driving force behind your business.
You’re built differently
Remember that as an Entrepreneur, you are essentially going against the grain and choosing a completely unconventional path.
You have goals and visions of making this world a better place either through selling a product or service. Staying motivated daily and getting through the motions can be tough.
But when you use these 4 tips, you can quickly navigate around obstacles and come out motivated and ready to take on the world in the end.
You’ve got this!