Being an Entrepreneur Is a Marathon, Not a Sprint
Did you know an estimated 90% of new billionaires in the US are self-made?
Most entrepreneurs remember the rush of making their first $1,000. Nothing compared to the confidence and pride they felt when they stepped back and looked at their company lifting off the ground.
Starting your own business isn't easy. It takes plenty of time and patience. The business world doesn't have many overnight successes, and this can be discouraging to many.
Remember that being an entrepreneur is a marathon, not a sprint. We'll show you how to run the race in our below guide.
Focus On Your Lane
As you learn how to be a successful entrepreneur, it's easy to start comparing yourself to other business owners.
Figure out what speed works best for you and your company. Going too slow causes frustration, but going too fast at first will cause burnout in the end. Determining your appropriate pace comes with a learning curve, but don't let it discourage you.
Just like a marathon runner, you'll get better with time. You'll learn what ideas and initiatives fuel your company and what causes your company to slow down.
Don't compare yourself to other business owners, but instead look to them for inspiration. Investigate what works for them that could also work for you. It's okay to peek at the competition.
Don't Lose Sight of Your Goals
Long-distance running is exhausting! So is starting a business.
Accepting that your journey will be tiring and difficult at times will better help you in your race. Combat this exhaustion by setting your sight on your goals.
If you need extra help in staying motivated, invest in business coaching. A coach will help you develop your goals and actionable steps you can take to reach them.
Invest in planners, helpful task apps on your phone, and any other tools that will keep you focused. And don't forget to surround yourself with a team that cheers you on!
It's Okay to Refuel
Believe it or not, successful entrepreneurship includes resting for a day or 2. Marathon runners take moments to refuel. You should too.
Many influential figures have preached the importance of never stopping and working around the clock to meet your goals. Drive and determination are important, but this mentality is a fast-track to burnout.
Set boundaries for yourself as you start and run your business. Promise not to check emails while you're at dinner with your kids. Tell your team you're sleeping in one Saturday morning.
Fill your own cup so you can fill others.
Is Being an Entrepreneur an Olympic Event?
While owning a business doesn't qualify you for the Olympics, it sure feels like it should. If you're feeling tired and discouraged, remember being an entrepreneur is a marathon, not a sprint.
Keep your focus on your lane and pace, and never forget the goals you set for yourself. Take a moment to refuel your energy and company among the chaos.
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