As a small business owner, you already know life is about endurance and sacrifice. If you are just starting out, it may be a harsh reality. The first few years you may be all things to all people. After building a strong foundation, you can begin to delegate some of the tasks that you do but in the meantime, you must go the distance. I love watching the Olympics as it inspires me to watch all the efforts of an athlete’s training come together. All the training compounded over time leads to the moment where it all comes together.

When I first got into business, no one told me about the long hours I would spend or about the hard work involved in making my dreams come true. Nonetheless, it was all worth it! Striving toward reaching my personal best is the ultimate achievement.

What can you as the small business owner learn from the Olympic athlete?

• Keep yourself hydrated at all times. Dehydration creates a foggy mind. You need to be on top of your game to know your skills and talents.
• Ensure you eat breakfast in the morning. It helps provide your body with the fuel and energy it needs to function.
• Nourish your body with a healthy diet. Limit your sugar, fat, and alcohol intake.
• Exercise matters. Get active in your favorite sport or sports. Walk, run,swim, or jog for at least 30-60 minutes daily. You may even add in some weight training. You need to keep your body strong and healthy.
• Focus and concentrate on your end result even when practicing.
• Aim for your personal best. Challenge yourself to always give your best in whatever you do.
• Practice, practice, and more practice. If you are going to good at something, you need to do it over and over until you master it  in your mind and body. Learn about how you can improve. Hire a coach or mentor to help guide you.
• Rest and relax. You need to take breaks to rejuvenate your mind, body, and spirit.
• Celebrate your accomplishments. Acknowledge and record your wins or what went well each day. Look how far you have come.

The Olympic athlete’s day often starts very early in the morning before many people are up and about. Training and preparing. These athletes are disciplined and know what it means to persevere. They know what it takes to be a winner. You also know what it takes to be a winner in your industry.  Truly – what does it take?

What do you need to map out or plan to get there? What action steps must you take? What will your end result look like?