Anybody running a business knows it is not a walk in the park. It’s a roller coaster of highs and lows. When it’s low, which will keep you going? Understanding the difference between each one and when to apply them will help you overcome challenges and improve your relationship with your business.
Inspiration: The spark of creativity
Inspiration comes from within and is aligned with your values and aspirations. It leads to actions that have a long-term impact. It generates the highest level of energy and while happening spontaneously. Inspiration is associated with:
- Clarity of thoughts
- Innovation
- Excitement
- Unpredictability
However, by having a daily and conscious connection with their “why”, a business owner can tame inspiration and call upon it when needed the most.
Motivation: The long-term driver
Motivation arises from a connection made between an action plan and a positive outcome. It enables sustained activity with a moderate cost of energy. Motivation often arises when:
- The actions are perceived as easy, enjoyable or low-energy
- The connection with a positive outcome is obvious or instant
- Evidence of progress is experienced
- Positive feedback, external rewards, or recognition is received
Motivation is the engine for consistent behaviours that deliver results. It can be nurtured by developing a supportive environment by balancing out the energy cost of execution with the energy input from progress and positive outcomes.
Willpower: The mental strength
Willpower is a rational decision in the face of temptation or adversity. It has the highest energy costs and, as such, cannot be sustained over a long period. When over-used, it leads to poor decision-making.
Willpower is characterized by:
- Self-discipline
- Delayed gratification
- Rational response to unexpected setbacks
- Short-lived superpower
Willpower should be called upon for a sprint, not a marathon. It will get you out of trouble but cannot be relied upon as a strategy for success.
The recipe for long-term achievement is a careful mixture of all three.
- Inspiration provides the vision and innovative ideas
- Motivation is the source of sustained activity for predictable results
- Willpower is called upon when the going gets tough
To thrive, a business owner must cultivate each one by:
- Regularly reconnect with their "why" to boost inspiration
- Break large goals into milestones
- Create a supportive environment that minimizes willpower drains
- Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation
- Develop strategies to replenish each element when it’s depleted
Understanding and nurturing inspiration, motivation, and willpower can provide you with a powerful toolkit for navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship. By leveraging these distinct yet complementary forces, you'll be better equipped to turn your business vision into reality and sustain success over the long term.
Did this blog help you? If it did, please share it with your business connections.
If you have any questions contact Helene HERE
Are you tired of putting off important tasks and feeling overwhelmed by procrastination?
You're not alone!
But fear not! We have the ultimate solution for you.
Introducing "3 Easy Steps to Banish Procrastination" - a downloadable guide that will transform your productivity and help you achieve your goals faster than ever before. Say goodbye to endless frustration and hello to a focused and motivated you. Don't wait any longer, click the link below to unlock the secrets to defeating procrastination once and for all!
In the dynamic landscape of business, decisions are the rudders steering our entrepreneurial ships. What if I told you that the questions you ask yourself play the role of navigator, determining whether you navigate tactical waters or set sail into the strategic horizon? Join me as we delve into the profound impact of the questions we pose and explore the strategic depth they can bring to your business decisions.
- The Questioning Mindset: Setting the CourseAs entrepreneurs, our minds are constantly abuzz with inquiries. Are these questions merely fleeting thoughts, or can they be the compass guiding us toward success? Consider this: tactical questions breed tactical decisions, and strategic questions pave the way for strategic choices. It's not just about asking questions but asking the right questions that align with your business goals.
- Essential Questions Every Entrepreneur Should Ask: A Blueprint for Successa. What is the vision of my business?Your business's vision is the North Star, providing direction and purpose. Crafting a clear and compelling vision statement propels you forward, ensuring that every decision aligns with the ultimate destination.b. What is the mission of my business?A well-defined mission statement acts as the engine driving your business. It encapsulates your purpose and serves as a constant reminder of the impact you strive to make in the world.c. What are the values of my business?Values are the guiding principles that shape your company culture and decision-making. They are the bedrock upon which a resilient and ethical business stands.d. What is my value proposition?Your value proposition is the unique offering that sets you apart from the competition. Articulating this clearly ensures that every product or service aligns with what your customers truly need.e. Who are my ideal clients?Knowing your ideal clients inside out enables targeted marketing and tailored solutions. It's not just about reaching customers; it's about connecting with those who resonate with your values and offerings.f. How can we give our clients the best customer journey?The customer journey is a strategic map, and each touchpoint is a milestone. Ensuring an exceptional customer experience requires constant refinement and adaptation.g. How could this go wrong?Anticipating potential pitfalls is a strategic exercise that prepares you for challenges. By addressing weaknesses and vulnerabilities, you fortify your business against unforeseen obstacles.
- Strategic Depth: The Currency of High-Stakes QuestionsPicture your business decisions as a poker game. The higher the stakes, the more critical the questions become. When significant financial interests are in play, asking strategic questions becomes paramount. These questions delve into the heart of risk assessment, long-term viability, and the alignment of every move with your overarching business strategy.
In the ever-evolving world of business, the questions we ask ourselves are not mere musings; they are the architects of our success. By adopting a strategic questioning mindset and consistently revisiting fundamental queries, you fortify the foundation upon which your business stands. Remember, the journey to success begins with the questions you pose, so ask wisely, answer thoroughly, and watch your business set sail toward new horizons.
If you need help to raise the quality of your questions, a mentor is the perfect partner to ask those questions and teach you how to ask them yourself. For support send QUESTIONS in a direct message.
Did this blog help you? If it did, please share it with your business connections.
If you have any questions contact Helene HERE
Are you tired of putting off important tasks and feeling overwhelmed by procrastination?
You're not alone!
But fear not! We have the ultimate solution for you.
Introducing "3 Easy Steps to Banish Procrastination" - a downloadable guide that will transform your productivity and help you achieve your goals faster than ever before. Say goodbye to endless frustration and hello to a focused and motivated you. Don't wait any longer, click the link below to unlock the secrets to defeating procrastination once and for all!
In this blog post, we explore the complexities of decision-making within business partnerships. Partners must navigate the crossroads of operational and strategic decisions, understanding their impact on the partnership's course. Money plays a pivotal role in decision-making, requiring careful consideration and collaboration for significant financial investments. Clear demarcation of responsibility and authority is crucial, ensuring streamlined decision-making and expert leadership in specific areas. Empowering decision-makers with the appropriate financial level of authority accelerates the process and fosters ownership. Partners with clear responsibilities and authority can make single-handed decisions within their realm, enhancing efficiency and minimizing delays. Ultimately, by aligning on decision-making processes, empowering each other, and fostering collaboration, partners can chart a course toward prosperous outcomes and lasting harmony.
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