More Than WE Know

This week I’ve been discussing the various symptoms of Entrepreneurial Spring Fever - an illness that runs rampant this time of year as thousands of previously satisfied entrepreneurs start to feel vaguely dissatisfied with their businesses and their lives.

So far I’ve discussed restlessness, lack of focus and impatience - all slightly uncomfortable symptoms that with proper care and treatment can actually help you improve your business and life satisfaction.  

However, today’s symptom - comparisonitis is much more troubling.

When plagued with this symptom which involves comparing your business, your life and your self unfavorably with others  - many Women Entrepreneurs find themselves disheartened and discouraged.  

Suddenly it seems that everyone else is having more success, making more money, creating better balance and influencing more people.

With this perspective, it is hard not to slide into feeling dissatisfied, disappointed and discouraged.

When this starts to happen, it’s important to remember that dissatisfaction with the status quo is a key motivator to creating change.

All of those great plans you’ve made won’t get done, if you don’t feel enough dissatisfaction with the way things are today.

Change is hard, even when it is for the better.

In order to have the energy and discipline to follow through on your plans and create the business and the life that you imagine, you have to first be dissatisfied with the life you already have.

So, instead of allowing your comparisons with others to discourage you - use them to encourage you.

Consider the idea that “if they can do it - so can you!”

 You wouldn’t have come as far as you have if you weren’t intelligent, creative and resourceful.

You might not have all the skills you need - but you can either learn what you need to know or find someone else to compensate for what you lack.

Those people with whom you are comparing yourself,  have their own shortcomings that they are dealing with - perhaps even some of the same challenges that you are facing. They found ways to get around their challenges - and so can you.

So now, when you see a successful person who seems to be living the life of your dreams - don’t kick yourself for not having achieved all of their success - instead open your eyes to see what you can learn from them, apply the lessons to your own situation and achieve your own dreams.

What people or situations do you compare yourself with?

How do you avoid feeling discouraged by the accomplishments of others?

What encourages you?

photo credit: MegElizabeth

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