Will you go the distance?

  Last weekend, I had the privilege of watching my oldest daughter, Brianna, complete her first marathon.  She trained for nine months, preparing for the big day.  She shared with me that her goal wasn't speed, but completion.  The smile on her face tells the story of what completion feels like.

 

 Being a business owner is much like running a Marathon.  Some sprint, trying only to reach the finish line, running in short spurts, tiring quickly.  Others think they've trained, but when the aches and pains begin, they give up.  Marathon runners train or prepare to go the distance.

Whether you're a business owner or a Marathon runner, you'll need:

Belief in yourself - Believe you have what it takes to be successful.

A great Sports Bra!  In other words...support - Education, mentors, family, friends, God.

Train, Train, Train - Simply relying on willpower and determination will not get you the results you want in business. Business training is knowing your industry, knowing what your customer wants, knowing what the competition is doing, and doing it better.

Mile Markers - How will I "Train?" One way to train is to set "Mile Markers," or short term goals. Chunking down goals, makes them more attainable.

Ice packs - When those inevitable business bumps and bruises occur, discouragement (like swelling) sets in quickly.  One of the best defenses for discouragement, is gratitude.  Acknowledging yourself, and being grateful for what you've accomplished, shifts your attitude.

A Coach - someone who shares your vision, asks the right questions, and assists you in breaking through barriers.  A good coach is like the cheering section of a marathon, they spur you on!

 Whether you're running a marathon or a business, remember:

 "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start." 
                                -John Bingham, running speaker and writer

 

 

 

Comments

[Susan Penner]

Thanks for this! It's a great encouragement to fix my eyes on Jesus and keep going!
Blessings to you,
Susan

[Kelli]

Thanks Susan...agree, fixing eyes on Jesus brings me encouragement as well. He came to give us life to the fullest!