Building a small business is hard work. It requires dedication, self-motivation, and stamina. It requires effort—both physical and mental. It requires passion to maintain the effort when times are tough.
New couples often exhibit much more passion than couples who have been together for a long time. The excitement of a new relationship and the future creates much of that passion. As time passes the excitement and passion can fade.
So it often is with our business. The excitement of a promising future fades as the reality of a difficult journey sinks in. The passion we feel as we embark on a new adventure declines as we face obstacles and set backs.
Relationship experts suggest many things that couples can do to keep their passion alive. Surprise gifts, weekend trips, and date nights are common suggestions. Few women are not thrilled with an unexpected bouquet of flowers.
We must do the same thing in our business. We must take actions to help us maintain our passion and excitement. It is fine to keep the long-term goal in mind, but we must also enjoy the moment. We must celebrate our successes and milestones. We must give ourself a pat on the back when we deserve it. Sometimes we need to stop and smell the roses.