The Solopreneur Secret Weapon: Gratitude [M&M #023]
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I’ve been asking my 5 and 2-year-old kids this simple question a lot lately…
Are You Happy?
If it’s a yes, I follow up by asking, “What’s making you happy right now?”
If it’s a no I ask, “Are you sad?” Why?”
Whether they’re running around on the playground or playing with Hotwheels cars in their room, I try to sneak this question in whenever I think to.
Gratitude can be a tricky thing. Yet as elusive as it may be, there is a lot to be gained.
For all us old folk out here… Somehow it’s even more challenging.
What Makes Practicing Gratitude Difficult
There are a few factors that can make it difficult to practice gratitude:
Negative Mindset: If you tend to focus on the negative aspects of your life or business, it can be challenging to shift your perspective and focus on the things you're grateful for.
Stress and Busyness: When you're feeling overwhelmed or stressed, it can be difficult to take a step back and appreciate the good things in your life.
Comparison: Seeing others' successes or possessions can lead to feelings of inadequacy or resentment, which can make it difficult to feel grateful for what you have.
Trauma or Difficult Experiences: If you've experienced trauma or difficult circumstances, it can be challenging to find things to be grateful for.
Lack of Awareness: Sometimes, we can be so focused on our daily tasks and responsibilities that we don't take the time to stop and appreciate the good things in our lives.
Keep in mind that…
The practice of gratitude is a skill that can only be developed over time.
It may take effort and mindfulness to shift your perspective and focus on the things you're grateful for, but the benefits of cultivating gratitude are well worth it. And since we’re all performance-driven achievers out here, let’s see how this gratitude practice can actually make us better at what we do.
How Gratitude Makes You a Better Solopreneur
Improved Mental Health: Gratitude has been linked to improved mental health, including reduced stress, anxiety, and depression. When you practice gratitude, you're more likely to have a positive outlook on life, which can help you better handle the challenges and stresses of running a business.
Increased Productivity: Gratitude can help you stay motivated and focused on your goals. When you're grateful for what you have, you're more likely to be motivated to work hard and achieve success.
Stronger Relationships: Gratitude can help you build stronger relationships with clients, colleagues, and partners. When you show appreciation and gratitude to others, they're more likely to feel valued and motivated to work with you.
Improved Decision Making: Gratitude can help you make better decisions, as it allows you to see the bigger picture and consider the long-term effects of your choices.
Overall, cultivating gratitude can have a positive impact on your life as a solopreneur, helping you to be more productive, resilient, and successful.
Practicing gratitude is a hard thing to work on even for highly driven people.
I find this interesting since there are so many things to be grateful for as a solopreneur.
3 Perks of Being a Solopreneur
An opportunity to carve your own path - a life and career on your own terms
Lessons you’re forced to learn along the way will shape you into your best self
The earning potential and opportunities abound when going for it on your own
Sounds pretty amazing right?
Then why is it that I, and many of us struggle to practice gratitude?
You survived another year and no doubt learned some things along the way.
They don’t sell wisdom for sale on a shelf, but somehow you’ve managed to cultivate a bit more of it this year.
Are you happy? What are you thankful for?
Take 30sec to reflect on that.
Your gratitude tank will begin to fill not only making your days more enjoyable but also priming you for an even better journey ahead. 💪
Until next time ✌️ 🙂
- Ev
