Thursday, April 4, 2013

Keeping Your Startup Passion Alive


Do you hate getting out of bed for work each day?

We've all been there.

But what if that job you're dreading is one of your own creation? You might have started your own business with plenty of passion but that doesn't mean that passion can't diminish especially when all the "headaches" of running a business rear up.

Here's how to continue to keep your passion alive for your startup:

Don't settle for failure.

Just because you've "lost that loving feeling" for your business doesn't mean you can't get it back. Failure is not an option. That should become your new mantra. Simply put, the work needs to go on because you've invested so much in building up your company already. If you're on your own, then take a day off doing something you love to reinvigorate yourself. If you've got a staff then it's even more important for you to "snap out of it!" Those folks are depending on your leadership. Don't let them or yourself down.

Ask for help.  

In the business world and in life we could all benefit from an objective perspective. A business coach or a mentor would be a sensible investment to help you get back on track and fire up your passion. This is someone who can hold you accountable with regard to your goals. They'll also be able to provide motivation and the necessary "kick in the pants" when needed.  Setting up a weekly phone call can get you back on track.

Reaffirm your goals.

Do you remember why you started your business in the first place? Was it to retire at the age of 40 with a million dollars in the bank? Was it to have a company you can share with your family? Was it simply to be your own boss? Whatever those initial reasons were for your startup you need to get back in touch with them. Maybe a properly placed photo to remind you of what you're fighting for will do the trick. Even the greatest ideas for a business will meet with obstacles. When you commit yourself to your goals then jumping over those obstacles shouldn't be a burden.

Reset your priorities.

It's amazing what a simple to-do list can do for resetting your priorities. Write out all the things that need to be accomplished around your business. Then set a specific deadline for the completion of those items. As you move down the list and accomplish the tasks, scratch them off the list and celebrate. This will help you focus on your business and, in a roundabout way, reignite your passion.