Running a business is universally known as tough, yet, naively, I believed my journey would be easier.

Like many people I’ve found the ebb and flow of work to be challenging. There are periods of overwhelming busyness followed by unsettling quiet. This lack of consistency can make it difficult to stay positive, and not doubt yourself and your ability.

Doubt can be a motivator for some, pushing them to prove their capabilities, but for many people it morphs into discouragement. It’s hard to maintain the cycle of pitching and proposing when nothing comes from it. All the swings and misses can make it harder to continue putting forth effort.

Then, delusion can set in – having an exaggerated perception of problems, and thinking issues are far worse than they are. This distortion magnifies the issue and can breed stress and anxiety. It can also paralyze action and decision making.

Ed Mylett refers to these barriers – doubt, discouragement, and delusion – as the three D’s that hinder both business and personal success.

This is a cycle I’ve experienced. It’s also not unique to me; it’s a shared human experience, especially in the realms of growth, learning, and striving for achievement.

Facing these challenges myself, I’ve found several strategies helpful in breaking the cycle:

1. Acknowledge and Reflect: Recognize that these feelings are normal. While this recognition may not immediately diminish their impact, it can reduce their control over you.  

2. Seek Constructive Feedback: Instead of dwelling on your missteps, seek feedback on your proposals and pitches. I always do this. Sometimes I don’t get a response. Other times I learn how to improve, or I find that missing out on a contract was due to factors beyond my control, such as pre-existing commitments or relationships.

3. Set and Track Goals: Break your bigger aspirations into small, manageable tasks. Then, I find it important to track these victories as evidence of progress.

4. Embrace Flexibility: Be prepared to pivot your strategies based on feedback and circumstance. Maintain a realistic perspective on challenges and opportunities and be flexible with your next steps. I’ve had to do this, as has every entrepreneur.

5. Invest in Personal Growth: Use your downtime for personal and professional development. Like the seasons, there is a time for rest and a time for productivity. So, rather than becoming stressed when things are slow, I try to use my quiet time to learn new skills or practice self-care.

6. Cultivate a Support Network. Entrepreneurs often underestimate the power of shared experiences and support in overcoming the three D’s. Surrounding yourself with peers and mentors that understand the journey can help minimizes isolation that often accompanies entrepreneurship.

After exploring these strategies and witnessing their positive impact, I invite you to try them too.

As a challenge this week. I encourage you to identify which of the three D’s is your biggest hurdle. Then, armed with the strategies we’ve discussed, select one or more to try.  

Remember, progress is rarely linear. By adopting a mindful approach and using the strategies above, you can successfully navigate the three D’s towards sustained growth.

Best wishes on your journey, Lauren