Do you ever find yourself stuck in your business? Have you ever felt like giving up? Do you have moments when you hear yourself say ‘Maybe I should just get a J.O.B.?’
When you have those moments, know that you are not alone. There can be a lot of moving parts to running a business. At times, it can be challenging.
You may think how much easier it would be to go to a 9-5 job without the stress and obligations that an owner experiences. But, as an entrepreneur, that can be a stifling place to be. You’d soon realize you miss the freedom and satisfaction of being an entrepreneur.
Here’s my top 10 things to do when you are feeling stuck:
INTERRUPT Do something to interrupt your thoughts. Often the stuckness we experience is from a continued ‘loop’ of thinking. The more we focus on something, the more we can obsess over it. We get stuck in that thought-loop. Interrupt that pattern by focusing on a new thought or different task.
JUMP Try jumping in one spot for a few moments. Imagine the tension falling away with each bounce. It’s a great way to refresh in a few short minutes. You might even crack a smile.
BREATHE Take several deep breaths and focus only on your breathing. Fill your body with higher levels of oxygen. It helps to generate better thinking as well as producing more calmness.
WALK A short walk can give a new perspective. Enjoy the surroundings and pay attention to things you may not have noticed before. A writer who’s blog I follow says he often finds his inspiration on walks in the forest – nature is a great way to quiet the brain.
RUN Physical activity is a sure way to change your state of mind. It increases the oxygen in your body, and also increases your energy level. With elevated energy levels comes a better attitude.
REVIEW Take a few moments to review your goals and strategic plan. Close your eyes and imagine yourself accomplishing your goals and enjoy the positive feelings you experience.
CONNECT Speak with a mentor, a trusted friend or colleague, or your coach. Just talking about some of your challenges can bring a whole new perspective. Surround yourself with people that encourage and cheer you on to greater potential in your life and business.
MEDITATE Get quiet with yourself, clear your mind of the clutter, and purposely generate a calmer state of being
NAP Taking a few minutes to rest is ok. It really is. It’s amazing how refreshed your body can feel after a 20 or 30 minute nap.
VACATION Take regular time off. Entrepreneurs need to renew. Plan for it, put it in your schedule, and actually do it.
It’s important to remember to plan for the times when you just don’t feel like doing the entrepreneurial thing, and, there will be times. Make a plan: ‘Things I Will Do When I Feel Stuck or Overwhelmed.’
Planning ahead gives you a big advantage. When you hear the subtle whisper, ‘J.O.B.’, pull out your plan, pick the best one in that moment, and do it. You’ll be glad you did.