5 Simple Tips to Embrace the Most Critical Entrepreneurial Virtue

Special Note: This post was inspired by this Ryan Holiday podcast.

And this Lucius song.

The key to success is learning to keep running, not racing to escape. In the fast-paced world we live in, it's easy to get caught up in the race of life.

We get caught up in comparing our lives to those we surround ourselves with – or those on social media.

As a child, my dad (a state employee of over 30 years within the unemployment office of a rural part of the state of Maryland) often called it “The Treadmill of Life.” He saw the underemployed and overemployed daily. He saw the hardship and the grind that wore people down. All the way down. He saw what it took to stay afloat and provide for oneself and family. I realize now – only at this stage - that he was right in that it just keeps going – there’s no end until we ourselves end.

Foolishly, we often find ourselves comparing our progress to that of others, measuring success based on external factors beyond our control. However, true contentment and growth lie in the pursuit of personal virtue, the journey of putting one foot in front of the other, focusing on becoming a better version of ourselves each day. Life isn't a race against others; it's an individual marathon of self-improvement, where the only competition is our past self.

Defining Perceived Competition

As a business owner, it's natural to look at other companies or business owners within our network or professional groups and feel the pressure to compete with them. However, the true competition lies within ourselves. Focus on what is within your control – your passion, dedication, and willingness to learn and improve. Instead of comparing yourself to others, define your perceived competition by setting personal goals and measuring your success against your past achievements. This shift in mindset will free you from unnecessary stress and help you stay focused on your own journey to success.

Life Isn't a Race, It's a Treadmill

The entrepreneurial journey is not a sprint to the finish line; it's a treadmill at a speed you regulate. It requires endurance and perseverance. Embrace the idea that success is not about how fast you reach your goals, but about the consistency of your efforts. Remember, it's not about quitting when faced with challenges, but about finding the strength to keep moving forward. Each step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your dreams. Trust the process and stay committed to your vision.

Celebrate your achievements, no matter how big or small, and embrace setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve. Every day, strive to be better than you were yesterday, and acknowledge your progress. Remember, success is not a destination; it's a continuous journey of self-improvement.

The Importance of Trustworthy Mentors and Guides

While on the treadmill of entrepreneurship, having trustworthy mentors and guides is crucial. Surround yourself with people who inspire you, provide valuable insights, and support your growth. A mentor can offer guidance based on their own experiences, helping you navigate through challenges and stay motivated. They can also be a source of encouragement during difficult times, reminding you of the reasons you started your business and the impact you want to make.

In the face of hardships, it's essential to keep the fire of the entrepreneurial spirit burning. Stay connected to your passion and purpose, and don't let challenges extinguish your drive. Cultivate a positive mindset, seeking inspiration from books, podcasts, and success stories of other entrepreneurs.

Remember, the #1 virtue is courage. You must persist. There's no end to life's race. One foot in front of the other, setbacks included, is the journey. Lean into the valuable lessons and opportunities for growth.

The top ways in which you can reset your mindset and reignite your fire:

1. Remind yourself, it’s a perpetual treadmill, not a short-term race.

2. Define your perceived competition by focusing on your personal growth and improvement.

3. Measure your success against yourself, finding satisfaction in becoming better each day.

4. Embrace the hardships and challenges, knowing that they are part of the process.

5. Keep the fire of the entrepreneurial spirit lit by seeking inspiration, staying connected to your purpose, and surrounding yourself with trustworthy mentors and guides.

By following these 5 simple suggestions, you can conduct yourself with virtue in life's race and continue to thrive as an entrepreneur on your unique journey to success.