5 Tips for Being a Happy Entrepreneur
Being a business owner ain’t all lollipops and unicorns… but there are plenty of savory licks and rides along the way.
It’s exciting to be a part of something that helps fuel the economy and shape the future. And it’s such a privilege to get to share your product or service with thrilled customers and build a team of incredible people.
But being an entrepreneur can also be demanding, exhausting, stressful, lonely, frustrating and overwhelming.
If you’re in it for the long haul (that takes grit, guts, and gumption, sister), it is crucial that you create a healthy balance between work and life.
At the root of that work-life balance is the intentional choice to be happy every single day…
… no matter what you have, where you are, or the circumstances you are experiencing.
Now. I’m not suggesting that you put on a “happy face” and ignore the reality of sucky situations… you know me better than that.
Life can be a *itch. And when she’s in rare form, she’ll work real hard to steal your “happy”… but that doesn’t mean you have to let her have her way.
As an entrepreneur (or heck, just as a mere mortal human being), you’re gonna have bad days and trying seasons.
But as you move through the “hard” of the yuck and suck, no one or nothing gets to choose your attitude, feelings, response, and behavior… unless you give them permission to do so.
Thankfully, most days as an entrepreneur are good, some are very good, and a few days here and there are just downright amazing.
It’s important that you take the time to celebrate your victories – both big and small – and enjoy what you are building.
You’re a freakin’ self-made entrepreneur… and that right there is something to celebrate.
I have discovered some valuable tips on my own entrepreneurial journey that help me choose happiness every day.
How to be a Happy Entrepreneur
Accept that there are things you can’t control
Not gonna lie. Owning your own business is not for the faint of heart. There are certain elements that are beyond your control… shifts in the economy, a global pandemic, cultural trends, competitors’ influence, etc. Focus on those things you can control, like your thoughts, actions, and words.
Stop playing the comparison game
Comparing yourself to others is a complete waste of time, not to mention the thief of joy. We all start in different places and bring various backgrounds to the table. You don’t know where others are coming from or what their challenges have been. Don’t worry about them. You are on your own unique journey.
Create a circle of other like-minded entrepreneurs
Nobody gets the cRaZy life of an entrepreneur like another entrepreneur. Surround yourself with other like-minded business owners who will encourage, support, and hold you accountable. Include gracious, trustworthy people who aren’t afraid to tell you what you need to hear when you need to hear it.
Don’t be afraid to say “NO”
As a business owner, growing your company can seem like the most important thing in your world. But what you can’t forget is that YOU are its most important asset. Do not neglect taking care of yourself by eating well, exercising, resting, spending time with your family, taking vacations, etc. Don’t be afraid to say “NO” to good things so you can allow room for the best things.
Show your appreciation
Take the time to say “thank you” every chance you get… to your spouse, your kids, your team members, your clients, the clerk at the grocery store, etc. Do something nice for someone who isn’t expecting it. Each morning as you wake, think about the things you are grateful for. When you practice gratitude daily, you can’t help but set the stage for chronic happiness.
Now, my fellow sister entrepreneur, go choose happy.
And speaking of surrounding yourself with other like-minded women… If you aren’t a part of our new Facebook Group, “The Essentials for Network Marketing”, come on over and join the fun. It doesn’t matter if you’re new to the industry, just considering it, or have been at it for a while, you don’t want to miss what’s going on in there.