Hey there, busy professionals! Grad your break-time drink of choice and lets chat about navigating the twists and turns of the business world. Let’s dive into something we’ve all encountered: the challenge of staying consistent in our work. It’s a journey, not a sprint, right?
So, how do we keep on keeping on when the going gets tough?
1. Be Kind to Yourself
First and foremost, my friends, let’s talk about self-compassion. In the pursuit of consistency, it’s crucial to recognize that bad days happen. It doesn’t make you any less of a powerhouse. In fact, it’s a sign that you’re human! So, cut yourself some slack. Treat yourself like you would treat a friend who’s going through a rough patch. You deserve it.
2. Reflect, Don’t Dwell
When the going gets tough, take a moment to reflect, not dwell. Look at what went wrong, acknowledge it, and most importantly, learn from it. Did you bite off more than you could chew? Were external factors at play? Reflecting on the challenges helps you understand them better, making it easier to overcome similar obstacles in the future.
3. Small Steps Lead to Big Wins
Consistency isn’t about making giant leaps every day. It’s about taking small, manageable steps consistently. If you’ve had a setback, don’t feel pressured to make up for lost time in one go. Break down your tasks into bite-sized pieces. Trust me; those small wins add up and create the foundation for long-term success.
4. Find Your Motivation
On those days when motivation seems elusive, seek it out. What drives you to do what you do? Is it a passion for your business, the impact you make, or the freedom it gives you? Reconnect with your “why.” It’s the fuel that powers your journey. Write it down, create a vision board—whatever works for you.
5. Build a Support System
You don’t have to go it alone. Surround yourself with a support system that understands your journey. Whether it’s friends, family, or fellow entrepreneurs, having a network that cheers you on during both the highs and lows can make all the difference.
6. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection
In the pursuit of consistency, it’s easy to get caught up in the quest for perfection. Spoiler alert: it doesn’t exist. Instead of fixating on flawless execution, celebrate your progress. Each step forward is a victory, no matter how small. Remember, life’s a journey, not a destination.
Kerryn’s Real Talk Experience: My Week on the Rollercoaster
Now, let me share a real-life experience that perfectly embodies the “keep on keeping on” spirit. Last Monday, life threw me a curveball that left me feeling like I was navigating a maze blindfolded. It upset me, threw my day off balance, and before I knew it, a whole week had slipped through my fingers, leaving me feeling like I’d been through the wringer.
Every day seemed to bring a new event, obstacle, or challenge, each one snowballing into what felt like an avalanche. I found myself caught in a whirlwind of helplessness and frustration, paralysed by these overwhelming feelings. Guilt and nasty self-talk added fuel to the fire, and, well, I was a wreck.
As Sunday night rolled around, I found myself reflecting on the chaos of the past week. I woke up on Monday morning with zero motivation, ready to spend the day/week/month cocooned in my blankets, feeling sorry for myself. But then, a lifeline appeared in the form of a message from someone doing me a favour. They needed materials for a project they were working on for me, and suddenly, I had a reason to get out of bed.
That straightforward task played the role of a catalyst, nudging me out of my comfort zone to gather the required materials. And guess what? Embracing the “Eh, might as well” principle I learnt from Connor De Wolfe’s videos, I found myself already out and about, prompting me to seize the opportunity to tackle another neglected item on my to-do list. It’s all about embracing those small victories, don’t you think?
Tuesday arrived, and with it, a determination to break free from the grip of the previous week. I tackled another task on my list, and slowly but surely, the days became a bit easier. Wednesday brought a glimmer of relief, Thursday was even smoother, and here I am on a Friday morning, sitting in front of my laptop, sharing this experience with you.
I’ve got a few appointments this afternoon that I’m genuinely looking forward to, a far cry from the dread that plagued me earlier in the week. And you know what? Tomorrow marks the beginning of the celebrations and traditions leading up to my brother’s wedding next weekend. Life has a funny way of turning around when you least expect it.
The takeaway from my rollercoaster week? It’s okay to stumble, to feel overwhelmed, and to hit a rough patch. What matters is finding that spark, that small glimmer of motivation, to get you back on your feet. So, my incredible friends, the next time life throws you a curveball, remember: even the smallest step forward is a victory. Keep on keeping on, and you’ll find your way out of the storm.
Stay empowered and keep shining.
