They say if you love what you do, you never actually have to work a day in your life. But--let's be real-- if you want to make money doing what you love, there will be some work involved. The great news is that there are simple things you can do right now to insure that you do more of what you love.
1) Be clear about what you love to do in your trade, and write it down.
There is power in making a list and writing it down. Make two columns, a "Love It" column and a "Leave It" column. I know what you're thinking ... my "Leave It" column is longer! That's actually pretty normal. It's easy for us to find things we don't love, but get real and make your list equal and, most of all, simple. To start, list only five things in each column. Just make each one of them count, and see how refreshing it is to be clear!
2) Accept that no one can do it all!
If you are an entrepreneur, you probably think and feel that you have to do it all. Reality is? No one can do it all or actually should! There! I said it! (That felt liberating.) Now, take a deep breath and sit with that for a while! Seriously? It is important to understand that everyone has at least one special talent. Perhaps you specialize in fitness or providing an amazing hairstyle. Maybe teaching yoga is your true calling. Whatever it is--keep it up, but leave those things you don't love (hint: they are in your "Leave It" column) to those who are better equipped for it.
3) Give yourself enough time.
Too often, I see professionals start a business because they love doing a specific trade, but then get frustrated with how long it takes to make a living at it and quit. Hate to be blunt here, but it takes time! There is rarely an overnight success story for a trade professional. You are learning and growing your trade, so honor whatever time it takes. Remember to give yourself enough time. It's what you love!
4) Remember, there is no one like you!
Whatever you provide-- massage, zumba classes, or nail services, you are special and unique. Stop comparing yourself to others. This can be very draining on you on multiple levels. Although it's great getting support from like-minded peers, it's not a good idea to compare or judge them or yourself. Honor your differences, and learn how to grow with each other!
Your business is not like a New Year's resolution that you can just review or make up once a year. You can review goals weekly or monthly. Heck, you can even sit in meditation daily and "check in" to see if you are still on YOUR path or if you took a temporary detour. "Checking in" can be one of the most important things you can do to stay on track, enabling you to do what you love more often. Start today by finding a routine for "checking in" that works for you!
With these simple tips and--yes--some work, you will be focused on what you love more, and you will be even closer to creating your business and a life you love.
Have experience with creating the business you love? What you do matters! Share your story and tips below.