From the Desk of Mary
Event Manager - Entrepreneur - Adventurer
It’s difficult to describe entrepreneurship to friends and family that haven’t walked that road. It can be liberating at the same time as being one of the most difficult things you’ll ever do.
After attending several women entrepreneur events over the past couple weeks and talking with colleagues, one question that kept popping up is how to stay motivated through the hard times. As an entrepreneur, you are your own sole motivator and boss. You have to keep the course and maintain your focus, or all your efforts will be for nothing.
The following are all things I’ve done over the years to rejuvenate when I’m feeling unmotivated. See if they can help you, too!
Daily Schedule
Creating a good work schedule will keep you on track, but it should be flexible. Every day, I create a daily schedule of my tasks for the next day. If I’m feeling too uninspired to tackle these in the morning, I will rearrange my schedule so it’s broken down into smaller blocks of time. I may work for 45 minutes, then reward myself with a 15 minute break.
Exercise
Exercise is proven to reduce stress, increase focus, promote well-being, and make you smarter. Find time for exercise as consistently as you’re able; 15 minutes every day is better than 3 hours every few weeks. If my schedule allows, I will try to get in either a quick run or walk every day to get my endorphins going.
A Great Playlist
I’ve created a Boss playlist just for times when I need motivation. It can be a great boost by lifting your mood and empowering you to take on the world. And it doesn’t have to be music! If you know a particular book or movie inspires you, take a moment to refresh with some familiar motivation.
Surround Yourself With Like-Minded People
Hard work and passion are contagious. I have a group of female CEO friends who get together to unwind regularly. We can unload on each other and inspire us to keep going. Having a network of others in the same situation can be invaluable at providing insight, sympathy, and inspiration.
Change Your Work Location
Rather than get into a rut, allow yourself some freedom and a change of scenery. I will sometimes work from a colleague’s office on the weekend or pop into a coffee house to vary my surroundings.
Pamper Yourself
Entrepreneurs are working a challenging 24/7 job. Blocking off time for yourself allows you to take a deep breath, rejuvenate, and maintain a good quality of life. I personally like to schedule a massage for much needed relaxation.
Review Your Goals or Vision Board
Take a step back from the nitty gritty, which can sometimes be overwhelming, to look at your larger goals. I love to review my vision board to get motivated and remind myself why I’m doing what I’m doing each day. It also might show me where I’m working too hard or not enough, letting me refocus my priorities.
Do you think you can include some of these into your routine? What do you do for self-care or motivation? Comment below!
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