Successful entrepreneurs develop distinct habits that are helpful in staying one step ahead of others. With the right mentality, behavior and attitude, we can become more efficient in running a successful business. We do practice routines that can help us work smarter and be more productive.
As an entrepreneur for nearly two decades, let me share with you some habits you need to develop to succeed:
#1: Don’t be afraid of failure
Running a business is like gambling. It’s exciting yet risky at the same time. There is no assurance of winning or losing when it comes to launching a startup. As an entrepreneur, you shouldn’t be afraid to lose. Be fearless.
“Success is not final; failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”―Winston S. Churchill
To succeed, you also have to be optimistic. Never view a failure as a failure. Instead, consider it as a failed attempt. Look at each opportunity as a huge potential for business. This will motivate you to keep moving forward and veer away from frustration and failure.
#2: Involve others in your journey
If you want to succeed, surround yourself with positive people. You must recognize your strengths and weaknesses, and seek help from others who can help grow your business. Start by hiring the right employees.
Never stop learning. Seek guidance from mentors. Remember that gaining support from like-minded people who can help you become the best version of yourself goes a long way.
As an entrepreneur, it’s also important for you to impart your knowledge and wisdom with others. This gives more meaning and enjoyment to your entrepreneurial journey towards success. As John R. Wooden said:
“It is easier to reach our potential when we learn the value of including others in our quest.”
#3: Think outside the box
It’s sometimes easy to spot an entrepreneur. Why? They are the ones who usually stand out. They usually have a different way of looking at things and events.
You can be labeled as “crazy” because you think outside the box. That’s all right. That’s what makes you a successful entrepreneur. Choose thinking differently over remaining in mediocrity and standard thinking.
The most influential entrepreneurs spend a significant amount of time thinking and envisioning ideas. They are naturally innovative and crave being in the constant process of discovery.
“Tough times never last, but tough people do.”―Robert H. Schuller
As an entrepreneur, you should welcome change and quickly adapt to it. Employees, customers, workload and other resources keep on changing with time. Change is something you regularly have to deal with. Being flexible enough to change direction greatly increases your chances at success and also widens your skills and knowledge.
#4: Exercise daily
Spending at least 30 minutes of exercising per day is significantly beneficial. Aside from improving physical and mental health, exercise helps boost productivity by helping our body release good hormones like endorphins and adrenaline.
I like this analogy regarding health & fitness and its role in our lives as entrepreneurs:
Think of your health and fitness as the head of an octopus and the tentacles as the myriad of other facets of your life. Without the head operating in its most optimal capacity, those tentacles aren’t going to function to their highest capabilities. ―Julian Hayes II
For sure, you’re busy, as most entrepreneurs are, but if you want to succeed at what you do, always leave room for your daily workout. You don’t need to get a personal trainer or go to the gym to get your daily exercise. You can always opt to walk or bike your way to work. That way, you’ll feel more active and energized upon entering your office.
#5: Get enough sleep
With all the heavy lifting of tasks that entrepreneurs do in a day, getting enough sleep becomes extremely important. Sleep helps entrepreneurs stay alert and emotionally stable, which helps them retain their focus and make better decisions.
Lack of sleep increases the risk of burnout and health issues. Not getting enough rest also lessens productivity and tolerance to frustration, which can contribute to another stressful and sleepless night. To succeed as an entrepreneur, you must manage your sleeping patterns so you’ll stay happy and effective.
“By helping us keep the world in perspective, sleep gives us a chance to refocus on the essence of who we are. And in that place of connection, it is easier for the fears and concerns of the world to drop away.”
― Arianna Huffington
If you aspire to run a successful business, then carrying out these habits can help you gain the strength and determination to fulfill your dream. The road to success should start with you.