Have you learned by now that being in business not always a ‘bed of roses’? It’s true. As you grow your business, there will be conflicts, disappointments, failures, stresses and so much more.
It can be tough (especially for those of you who are NOT working with a business coach – shame on you!).
“Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together!” – Marilyn Monroe
One of the books I reference often is Chicken Soup for the Soul, one of the very first editions from 1993. It’s been a source of information and support for me for all these years. In one of the sections on ‘Obstacles”, Jack Canfield talks about numerous ‘famous’ people who have overcome challenges and, when I am going through a difficult time in my business, I refer to this chapter for inspiration and lessons.
Louisa May Alcott, the author of ‘Little Women’, was encouraged to find work as a servant or seamstress by her family.
Henry Ford failed and went broke five times before he finally succeeded.
F.W. Woolworth’s employers at the dry goods store said he had not enough sense to wait upon customers.
In each instance, these people went on to great success. I know that I, too, can succeed when I keep my eye on the vision – and do not let challenges and obstacles get in my way.
Here are some of the steps I implement each and every time:
1) LOOK PAST THE FEAR
It’s much too easy to get caught up, and paralyzed, in the fear of the moment. Always keep your eye on the brass ring – on your vision – on the ‘why’ of your business. I am constantly telling myself that ‘this, too, shall pass’.
2) REMEMBER THAT EACH STEP IS A CHOICE
We always have the power to choose how we are going to react, and handle, each and every challenge that comes our way. Everyone has challenges. That is part of being in business. How you choose to react will determine your level of success. There are absolutely times that I schedule my ‘pity parties’ and hang out with Ben & Jerry (ice cream!) – but when the party’s over, it’s time to move forward. And I do. So can you.
3) GET REAL ABOUT WHO YOU ARE
One of the best pieces of advice that I got from my mentor, Lou Tice, was to stop comparing the inside of me to the outside of everyone else. When I am faced with challenges and obstacles, it is often when I fall into the comparison trap. What I have learned over the past few years is to get very good at being ME. And yes, while I do follow the guidance of my coach, and use models and templates and systems that ‘work’, it is also critical for me to always remember to bring the real ME to the game. That’s when, inevitably, things start to turn around and work out for the best again.
4) KEEP GOING
One of my (successful) mentors always talks to me about people who call it quits when, in fact, they are just three feet from gold. When faced with obstacles and challenges, it is critical to keep going…….when really all you want to do is to crawl back into bed and get under the covers! We all have those days. Action begets action. Keep going and you will keep growing!
I KNOW THAT, FOR MANY OF YOU, WHEN FACING CHALLENGES AND OBSTACLES IN YOUR BUSINESS, YOU FEEL QUITE ALONE. JUST RECOGNIZE THAT YOU ARE NOT ALONE – WE ALL GO THROUGH THIS. IT IS HOW YOU DEAL WITH IT THAT MAKES ALL THE DIFFERENCE IN THE WORLD.
AND KEEP IN MIND THAT YOU, TOO, MAY BE JUST THREE FEET FROM GOLD……………
My question to you is – what is the biggest challenge you are facing in your business today?
We’d love to hear! Please share your thoughts!
