You've poured every ounce of energy into a goal expecting an outcome that would match how hard you worked. Months or even years have passed, and you've started to become discouraged, and resentment is creeping in daily.
Maybe your business hasn't progressed as quickly as you wanted. Or perhaps the pounds aren't dropping like it's hot. You feel like a boxer who has been knocked down and is close to throwing in the towel.
It's during these moments when quitting is tempting--especially when those doubts and nagging thoughts start whispering in your ear, telling you everything was pointless.
Just as the prolific poet Clifford Harris, aka Ti (the Rubber man) says, life's ups and downs come and go - And boy, is he right!
These 3 tips I have for you today are proven effective to help you keep showing up as a winner even when you feel like you are losing.
#1 Focus on the present moment
Things changed for me when I realized business is business and life will be the life you create. What do I mean by that? Every business, from mom-and-pop shops to Fortune 500 companies, gets it wrong sometimes. Everyone has wanted to lose 20 lbs. by their class reunion, and it didn't happen. And when things don't go as planned, it's time to assess the current point and prepare for the pivot! Sometimes looking too far ahead only causes more anxiety, stress, and worry; sometimes, it is just not the right time. Whatever the reason, remember God's plans will always be greater and more beautiful than all your disappointments.
Self-reflection questions:
Are you leading or hustling?
Are your current actions aligning with your vision consistently?
Does what you do bring you joy or self-fulfillment?
Does what you do afford you the lifestyle you desire?
Does your life mission serve only yourself or others?
#2 Embrace imperfect action
Imperfect action is better than perfect inaction every single time. Perfection isn't achievable and prevents us from achieving our full potential. It's an illusion, and those seeking perfection will be disappointed over and over again. Achieving your goal requires embracing imperfect action. Even if it means we don't always make visible progress.
That's how we learn.
Let go of self-doubt but also remember to put a lot of effort into trying new things daily. Trust yourself even when you doubt yourself.
#3 Always play the long-term game.
Gary V. says that having a long-term game plan is his greatest asset. Statements like these are unicorns in a world where an overnight success story dominates and are considered "goals."
I say, get out of the background and set the standard for how you want your life and business to flourish moving forward. You must do this for yourself, not for the accolades, the applause, or even clapping (or lack thereof), but for Y.O.U.—yourself! Never lose sight of that!
Teach/ train your employees
Teach your partner/ spouse how to communicate with you in your love language by leading the way.
People will always appreciate what YOU value—so be yourself, accept yourself, love yourself, and empower yourself!
Society puts way too much emphasis on the negatives. How often does Mcdonald's get your order wrong? And you still keep going back for those delicious fries. Why? Because they keep showing up, not bothered by the complaints and criticism about their old, broken ice cream machine. They continue to swing their doors open and serve millions daily. Don't let compliments hit your head or criticisms find their way into your heart, whether it comes from yourself or someone else.
As you become clearer about who you really are, it will become easier to decide what's best for you and what's next for you.
Please share this with one of your besties, colleagues, or mentees to encourage them on their journey to success.