The world is never stable in the best of times. If physics has taught us anything, it is that everything moves towards entropy (disorder and randomness).
As a result, things are always churning to upset the current order and balance we work so hard to maintain. When you realize that things are “off,” the chaos that is so a part of our world has already been ramping up long before you noticed.
It can knock you off your game. But the trick is to maintain order and composure; maintaining your confidence is a big part of getting the pendulum to swing back in your favor. If you manage anything in your life, you know that confidence is huge. So how to keep that confidence going when your world seems to crumble around you?
Keep a Supportive Mindset
Do not delude yourself into thinking you aren’t exactly where you are meant to be. It’s far too easy to let your inner critic talk you into thinking you should be at a certain point when you’re not. The old adage “everything happens for a reason” rings especially true here.
Turn your inner critic into an inner supporter and let it work for you instead of against you. Support those around you, but take care of yourself first. Maintain a positive attitude; whether that’s through meditation, positive affirmations, or actions that set a positive mood for yourself.
Rely on the Support of Others
Successful people never go it alone. There is always at least one person there to act as a mentor, a sounding board, a partner, or group of people in a similar role in a support group setting. As entrepreneurs, it sometimes seems we need to put the entire weight of the business on our shoulders, but that should never be the case. Everyone needs help. Even Oprah Winfrey and Elon Musk.
Walk the Line Between the Forest and the Trees
As you encounter problems, strive to step back and look at the big picture while also focusing on the details. Get a perspective on where the problem lies within the grand scheme of it all to gain the flexibility of response. Then figure out how to right the wrong with a step-by-step plan.
Spend a Portion of Time Focusing on Big Picture Goals
Remember that quote, 20% of your efforts lead to 80% of your results? There is truth to that. Identify high-level activities that are directly related to the success of your business. Then, execute them systematically, taking baby steps each day to achieve your goals. Don’t try to do too much too fast, you will only crash and burn.
Follow the Data – And Your Gut
This involves taking risks, to be sure, but no one ever succeeded by always playing it safe. You will build confidence within a volatile world by being true to yourself and staying the course. Weigh the pertinent information and take action based on your gut feelings. Then, don’t hesitate. And if you fail? Well then, use that as a lesson learned and move forward. In times of uncertainty, always move forward.
