I’ve often heard others say that success is a state of mind. Too often people suppress ‘success’ deep within, thus, allowing it to be either a hindrance or a strong asset. So, what does it mean to have a successful mindset? Well, it requires preparation and creating a high degree of self belief. In essence, it’s developing a good attitude, building meaningful relationships and setting realistic goals. Having a successful mindset is Key to success. Here are 5 timely tips to achieve it:
Pay It Forward
The purpose of Pay It Forward is merely taking the focus off of oneself and finding a way to render an act of kindness that will positively impact another’s life. It is my strongest belief that with success come a responsibility to help or support other women. For example, since 2004, I’ve spent countless hours as a volunteer SCORE counselor and personally mentor aspiring entrepreneurs. Here are a few ways to pay it forward:
- mentor someone
- make a donation to a non-profit agency
- offer to do pro bono work on a project where your skills are needed
Face Difficult Challenges
Let’s face it, many of us have been faced with challenges due to a down economy as well as other major issues that make us question if business ownership for us. The most successful entrepreneurs embrace challenges knowing that greater fulfillment, success and growth is obtained when you can adapt to any situation.
Set Achievable Goals
We all want to achieve goals. Whether personal or professional, planning is the key to success in any business. Most entrepreneurs set goals that are too vague, thus, causing goals not to be achievable. This can be avoided by setting specific and attainable goals. Determine what your priorities are and then focus on them. By prioritizing your goals, you are focusing on those that are important to the overall success of your company. By staying focused on your business goals, you will achieve the success that you imagined, and more!
Stay Faithful
“Without faith, nothing is possible. With it, nothing is impossible.” Mary McLeod Bethune
As an entrepreneur, circumstances will cause us to question our faith. We must remember that not everything we do will turn out according to our plan. It is important to remain positive and stand strong in your faith.
Use Positive Affirmations
“Watch your thoughts, for they become words. Watch your words, for they become actions. Watch your actions, for they become habits. Watch your habits, for they become character. Watch your character, for it becomes your destiny.” Unknown
An affirmation is a short statement or judgment that you affirm as being true. Using affirmations can be soothing to your mind, heart and spirit! For example, here are a few ‘success’ affirmations:
- I am self-confident and bold.
- I am learning and growing daily.
- I am grateful for my blessings.
- I am making positive changes to my finances.
- I am living my dreams.
Say it… Mean it… Live it!
In conclusion, success should be defined on your own terms. To intentionally choose the life you want to live is what will allow you to feel free and successful!
Sylvia Browder is CEO of Specialty Home Services LLC, a Home Improvement Company; a Small Business Consultant at Browder Consulting Group, a startup consultancy firm to help women with startup assistance, marketing, website and graphic design work and other support services. In addition, she has co-authored several published books; publisher of ‘Sylvia Browder’s Blog for Women Entrepreneurs’ a lifestyle blog; and publisher of ShopSpendBlack.com Business Directory & Blog platform created to help consumers find black owned businesses in a searchable format. In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her husband of 30 years; 5 adult children and 5 grandchildren; church; friends and motorcycle riding.
