As many of you will know, I had my third daughter 6 months ago. In the last 5.5 years of my business, I’ve had three maternity leaves (and 3 pregnancies!). While it’s brilliant to be able to run your own business around your family life, the downside is trying to stay motivated to keep it going and pushing forward when you have a young family to focus on. There’s a lot to be said for there being a return to work date after maternity leave, and knowing that you’ll be returning to the income you are used to.
With all three babies, I’ve been back at work in some form almost immediately. With this one, my daughter was born in October and I had a big project on in November that was deadlined. It does make me question whether I’d be better off returning to employment, rather than being held to account by me. But I know deep down that this is much better for me. I like to be in control of my own path. And I love that it works so well around my family life (mostly!).
It means I have to rediscover my motivation. Get past the life changing experience I’ve just gone through in adding to our family, and get back at the MacBook getting ‘stuff’ out there. And that’s the hard bit! So, I thought I’d share with you how I rediscover my motivation in case you go through periods where you struggle for motivation.
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Focus on why you’re doing it
I don’t just run a business for fun. I do it to earn money for my family. One of my ‘whys’ is definitely being in control of my own destiny. But the other is them. I can earn money and work part time. At the moment, I’m only child free one day a week and that will increase to 3 days in September. The rest of the time, I get to spend with my kids and be very present in their lives. Do school runs, make dinner, help with homework, listen to them read, give them cuddles. That’s my why! What’s yours?
2. Listen to inspiring people
Last weekend, I went along to the Grace The Stage event. It really turned on my burners and made me want to crack on with work straight away! There’s something magical about listening to inspirational people. So much so, I’ve decided to create a YouTube inspiration playlist and try to listen to someone inspiring every morning!
3. Learn, learn, learn
For me, changing how I do things and coming up with new ideas really pushes me forward. But to come up with those ideas, I need to learn. Read, listen to podcasts, watch videos, attend courses. Whatever way you do it, learning is sometimes the toe you need and where you need it!!!!
4. Move
The more I exercise, the more energy I have. I’m no ripped and toned gym bunny, believe me! But moving regularly definitely gives me the energy I need in my business. Whether it’s going out for walks with dog and baby or sticking the earphones in and getting sweaty in the gym, I need to move to keep me moving forward.
5. Earn money
This might seem obvious, but there’s nothing more motivating than seeing it working. People wanting to work with you. People buying your stuff. It definitely drives me to carry on and work harder on my office days. Once the momentum kicks off, don’t let it stop. Keep that ball rolling.
I’d love to hear how you motivate yourself in your business!
