Gratitude in the midst of growth

For small businesses and sole proprietorships, it can be very easy to focus on the negative aspects and growth opportunities in our work. That constant critical eye allows us to make micro risks and innovate in a fast-paced market. I would argue that this ability is one of the main things that separate entrepreneurs from the general population. We see opportunities that others do not see, and hold the critical skills to improve and execute to make things better.
In this particular season I have 3 businesses that are starting to build momentum. In a real sense I am seeing the fruit of a lot of work behind the scenes coming back around. These kinds of moments are what entrepreneurs live for. And yet, in the moment it is so easy to keep moving forward and "fix" things instead of taking a few moments and be grateful. 

We have a culture of upward mobility. Day in and day out we are bombarded with content that pushes us to consume more, spend more, and raise our status. Entrepreneurship culture also encourages people to "flex" with their wealth and success. This constant stimuli is robbing us of our joy. Comparing our situation to others can definitely be a motivation to work hard and strive for more, but it can also become a distraction to the many wins we see every day. 
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My challenge to you is to find time everyday to be grateful for the things that are going right in your life and your business. If nothing else, you have air in your lungs and a roof over your head. Start there. I wrote a previous article that states that "trying is winning", and I would encourage you to embrace your effort. Reward yourself emotionally for a job well done. It could be the thing that helps propel you forward.

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