We've all lost motivation and confidence...
Moments when business isn't going smoothly- your webinar recording isn't working how you planned, the project feels like it has a mind of its own, technology problems, you can't connect with your audience how you'd like, etc.
You lose productivity when you question whether the task you're working on is worth it. If you hit enough setbacks, you start to doubt yourself, or wonder if this project or business are for you at all.
The good thing is you aren't worthless, and you don't have to start a whole new business. Here are five ways to motivate yourself so you feel great and work better!
Here's how to get past that discouraged feeling!
Reggie
1. Remember, this is normal.
You've found a blog post about it based on comments from entrepreneurs around the world. Each month, 450,000 people search Google for motivational quotes.
These challenges are natural, showing you whether you're on the right path. It feels discouraging, but you're learning a ton, and you're building a successful business even though it doesn't feel like it right now.
Read more: Anxiety? Perfectionism? How to Stop Self Criticism ASAP
2. Take a break
You're probably working pretty hard! If you've already put 8 hours of work today, it'll be easy to feel frustrated. Something repeatedly not working well is the chance to reconsider your approach. Stretching and taking a walk outside gives you fresh air and perspective for problem solving.
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3. Check your health habits
Now that you've taken a walk, what have you eaten today? Are you drinking plenty of water? Your mood and ability to focus is connected to your body's ability to circulate nutrients and oxygen. This is a good time for a healthy snack, like almonds, yogurt, or a smoothie. Also, getting 7+ hours of sleep helps with mental clarity and creativity- be sure to get plenty each night!
Click to read how sleep helps mood and motivation!
4 . Revisit your purpose
When you get some quiet time, think about why you started your business. I developed Fit for Freelance to help entrepreneurs enjoy the reasons they work, so I'm proud of the intensely valuable missions and interests of my clientele. Your personal motivation helps too- did you start for more flexibility for family time? More travel? Avoid rush hour traffic?
When you prioritize a compelling enough vision, nothing can get in your way. Clarity of purpose is essential to your motivation.
Read more: Stop Waiting to Make Your Dreams Your Reality!
5. Get support
Getting the right people on your team gives you perspective you wouldn't see on your own. I like to consult with fellow entrepreneurs in my field, a friend in my target audience, and family who love me but can't relate to entrepreneurship. Developing your wellness program with me will improve your productivity and motivation too!
Here's a little motivational poem:
You Musn't Quit- Multiple attributions
When things go wrong, as they sometimes will,
When the road you’re trudging seems all uphill,
When the funds are low and the debts are high
And you want to smile, but you have to sigh,
When care is pressing you down a bit,
Rest! if you must – but never quit.
Life is queer, with its twists and turns,
As every one of us sometimes learns,
And many a failure turns about
When he might have won if he’d stuck it out;
Stick to your task, thought he pace seems slow-
You may succeed with one more blow.
Success is failure turned inside out-
The silver tint of the clouds of doubt –
And you never can tell how close you are,
It may be near when it seems afar;
So stick to the fight when you’re hardest hit –
It’s when things seem worst that you musn’t quit.
In conclusion
Motivation ebbs and flows, and setbacks are a feature of the entrepreneur lifestyle. Remembering this is normal, taking a break, protecting your health, revisiting your purpose, and getting support are five great ways to stay motivated so you enjoy the reasons you work!
Ready to get motivated and give your business the energy it deserves? Check out the Health Habits Challenge!
