7 Ways Entrepreneurs Stay Motivated

Motivation comes in countless different forms, and in the entrepreneurial world, staying motivated is required to succeed. Below are seven tips for staying motivated in the entrepreneurial world.

1. Realize the Progress That Has Been MadeEntrepreneurs never look back with regret; instead, they see every mistake as a lesson. That doesn't mean they don't reflect upon their progress, though. If lacking motivation, take some time to realize how much progress has been made. It's a great way to appreciate the personal progress that has been made and it can be pleasantly surprising, too.
   
   "You can become exhausted by decision making and the day-to-day activities," says Mary Ferguson, President of Concenter Services. "You need to always take breaks to stop and look back at the progress you have made on a continual basis to stay motivated."
2. Meditate Each DayFind some time every morning or evening (or both) to meditate. It doesn't really matter what it takes to clear the mind, but finding a calming process to wipe the mental slate clean is a great tool for staying motivated. It invigorates and refreshes, allowing entrepreneurs to see each day as a new opportunity.
3. ExerciseFor being so physically demanding, exercise is an incredible way to release stress and find motivation. By nature, exercise is similar to entrepreneurship - both involve hard work, excuses are not welcome in either, and they're all about personal development. The dedication and motivation that comes from exercise carries over to entrepreneurship, so don't skip that workout.
4. Limit Decision-Making in Other Aspects of LifeEntrepreneurs have to make a lot of tough choices each day and it can take a toll. Throughout the rest of the day, though, they tend to limit decision-making to keep things simple. It's a great tool for motivating entrepreneurs because it keeps them sharp when their abilities are needed elsewhere.
5. Visualize the FutureEvery great entrepreneur had a vision of what they wanted to achieve, and for good reason - it's unbelievably motivating. Entrepreneurs owe it to themselves to know exactly what they strive to achieve because without a clear goal in mind, the drive to achieve greatness is limited.
   "I personally prefer to turn those entrepreneurship pressures around and use them to push me and my business harder, faster, farther." Aaron Schmitz, CEO and President of Equity Technology Partners explains that, "I've seen how a lack of motivation in entrepreneurs especially during the hard times can affect their mental and physical health and the health of their relationships both personal and professional and while it's an easy trap to fall into it's also avoidable."
6. Take Time for Yourself and Your Loved OnesSometimes, a break is all that's required to motivate an entrepreneur. They are human, after all, and they get tired. Spending some time with friends or family, or perhaps embracing a hobby, provides the refreshing mental break that allows for a proper return to form the next day.
7. Experience the WorldMotivation comes from many places, and not just mental ones. With the unbelievable range of cultures, values, and regions across the world, inspiration and new ideas are virtually limitless. Entrepreneurs should explore the world and take advantage of all it has to offer. There are endless ways to find motivation in the world, so don't hesitate to expand those horizons.