Most of us have heard the phrase, “Perception is reality.” And while it may mean different things to different people, it’s really about how your limiting beliefs, self-doubt and negative thoughts all play a part in your business. Even if you think these feelings are only tied to your personal life – think again. They can always interfere with your business.
Why?
For solo service professionals, your personal and business lives are often intertwined. It is important to recognize this potential problem because it could actually be holding you back in achieving the business success you are looking for. For example, let’s say you are just plain discouraged with your life right now.
Your personal life is less than stellar – maybe you haven’t had a date in awhile, or you and your significant other have been at odds with each other lately. Then, you start to focus on the things “wrong” with your life and you get discouraged with everything, including your business. You start to think that you can’t be as successful as you want to be because of your competition, lack of knowledge or lack of funds to take a continuing education course, or whatever.
Once you get “down in the dumps” about yourself and your business, that’s exactly what you project to everyone else. That in and of itself will limit your progress. That negative energy you are putting out to everyone and to the world around you will only attract more negative energy.
So how do you fix this?
First acknowledge that you are discouraged and don’t beat yourself up over it. All of us can get discouraged now and again. But once you realize this is the case with you, make the decision to “turn the corner” and focus your attention on resolving the issues at hand. Often we make situations more complicated than necessary because we over-think matters and ignore simple solutions. Don’t fall into this trap! Give yourself the space to calmly and objectively think about the situation. Talk out your feelings with a trusted confidant to clear your mind. Decide on a resolution, take action and pat yourself on the back for doing so!
Also, get support from fellow solopreneurs who can relate to your business challenges and personal circumstances. Consider teaming up with an accountability buddy, joining a mastermind group or hiring a coach to ensure you are making progress in your business. All of this “mental cleanup” and trusted support will help you get clarity in your personal and business life.
Once you’ve gained clarity, moved away from discouragement and start to take positive action, you will see your personal and business life flourish. You have to put yourself in a place to attract and receive success. Remember, the only way to do this is to break through the negative beliefs that you have. You’re not the only one; we ALL have them in one form or another. You’re not crazy. You’re not destined for “failure”. You are human.
How you chose to deal with the challenges will set you apart from those who “wish” they had it together and those that actually do. Your version of success is right in front of you, there for the taking. So, don’t stand in your own way and let it pass you by!
Comment here on the blog and let me know how you plan to apply this smart, simple strategy in your own business!
Wendy says
Thanks so much for this encouraging post! A good friend works as a PA for a financial advisor whose business has slowed significantly. After sharing this article, she is energized to turn her own frown upside down and make a positive difference in her workplace. Thought you’d like to know about the happy ripple you’re leaving. 🙂
Sydni Craig-Hart says
Thanks for the note Wendy and for passing the article along. I’m so glad your friend enjoyed it!
How did you benefit from the article?
Shelby says
Thanks for the encouragement! One thing I learned from my mastermind group was to write down affirmations on index cards that I can take with me everyday. I fill them with positive quotes and Bible verses i like. Every time I read them, it helps switch my mind from the negative to the positive.
This article is a great reminder to keep moving forward no matter what. Great motivation!
Shannon Holloway says
Sydni,
This is so on target and so true. I have been tweaking my business, working with different people, learning all the new things I can, trying different programs and it is very discouraging that after a year and several thousands of dollars I feel sometimes that I am no further ahead today than I was 6 months ago. I have to remember that this is just the way starting a new business is and that it takes time and discipline. I have to start being more laser focused and putting myself out more in the Social Media realm and talk show loop so people know what I do and that I know what I am doing. I have done all the work that needs to get done for my business, now it’s time to promote it and have confidence in it. Thank-you for your words and for your great weekly advice!