It happens to all of us, that moment where everything seems too hard and you’re so overwhelmed that you want to give up business forever. Running your own business is difficult – if it wasn’t, it wouldn’t be so rewarding. I don’t know anyone in business who hasn’t reached that point of overwhelm at least once. Unfortunately some people really do choose to quit – but I wish no one ever got to that point. Instead, try working on some different strategies to help you through those times because, in my experience, there is always a light at the end of the tunnel.
1. Disconnect
I would wager a huge number of people who feel out of the game are simply burnt out. We all tend to take on more responsibility than we should, work more hours than we should and carry more stress than we should. It’s understandable – your business is your life and you will do whatever it takes to succeed. But, as cliche as it sounds, you also need to take care of your health. So the first thing I would suggest when you’re overwhelmed is to take a day off (or at least a night off!). Unplug, turn off your phone, log out of your Facebook account. Take your family out to the beach, or go on a hike alone. Get some fresh air and some healthy food, and try to take your mind off your work. Because, while your business is important, it’s just as important that you don’t lose touch with yourself and what you need to stay healthy, both physically and mentally.
2. Trip Down Memory Lane
When you’re lost in mountains of work and you want to throw your hands up and quit, take a few minutes to sit back and remember what motivated you to start your business in the first place. Picture where you were when you made the decision. What did you want? To help others? To live your passion? To get out of your soul-destroying day job and have the freedom you craved? The further along you get in your business, the easier it is to forget why you began your journey. Taking the time to reconnect with that feeling will help put everything in perspective.
3. Get Fresh Eyes
As a business owner you’re probably quite focused on what you’re doing – so much so that you lose perspective on what is happening around you. Sometimes when we focus intently on a certain path or solution to a problem, that’s all we can see, to the detriment of many other (possibly better) alternatives. Remember Einstein’s definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. If you’re in a rut and you keep trying the same thing to get out of it because you can’t see any other way, it’s time to get some fresh eyes working for you. Whether that’s a mentor, a trusted peer, or a consultant, you could benefit from someone more impartial giving you advice. In addition, that person has probably felt the exact same feelings of overwhelm that you’re experiencing, and knowing someone has been through the same thing and come out the other side could be just the boost you need.