By Armando “BUTZ” Bartolome
You may have noticed that for the last couple of months, I have been actively interviewing entrepreneurs online. Having to adapt to the “new normal”, has allowed me to still be able to reach out to so many people. But this time, aspiring entrepreneurs will not only learn from my personal experiences but as well as from other seasoned entrepreneurs whom some of them have become close to me.
The reason why I still do what I have been doing for the past 27 years is that it has been my passion to help people particularly those who want to step out of their comfort zone and start building their own business. Another reason is that, in letting others know fellow entrepreneurs, I would like people to become more inspired, to give them that push that they need to get on with what their dreams are. I have featured entrepreneurs who started from a measly capital, but with their strong faith, perseverance, and a positive mindset, they were able to brave out all the storms that came their way.
Paying It Forward
Entrepreneurs come across a lot of stresses each day. Thus, you may often find some of them a bit grumpy most especially by the end of the day. While I do understand why they are feeling that way, it may not be how others perceive it. And most often than not, others just see the grumpiness and over-sensitivity. Problems from business are unavoidable and some people may not handle it well, thus creating a monster-like persona which employees are so afraid of. But did you know that when you focus more on happiness, it has a positive effect on your business?
You may have learned from your own experience that people are most remembered about their negative attitude than the good that they have. And for sure, you wouldn’t want to leave a mark as being the “scrooge” of your company. More than choosing to see the positive things in life, it attracts good things towards your business which means that you help your way to success. How?
1. Start with a smile each day. Even if others may think that you are over-smiling, just embrace the positive vibes.
2. Make your employees feel that they are worth your time. Allow them to express what they feel and if there is a need for them to share some opinions or suggestions, hear them out.
3. A simple gesture of recognizing the best employee of the month boosts your employees’ morale. With this, they are more inspired and motivated to work harder. Complimenting with a slight increase in their salary for a position they deserve is surely not bad at all.
4. If you think that your sales have reached more than what you have expected, you can share some of your blessings by reaching out to those in need. For example, spending an afternoon with children at the hospice or giving a little entertainment to the elders.
Why do we need to be grateful?
Expressing gratitude increases one’s self-esteem and resilience, motivation, and energy. People who express gratitude more often experience fewer physical psychological problems, fewer aches, and pains and can sleep better. When these are all apparent, it creates a positive attitude thus being able to fulfill more responsibilities and becoming more productive.
You see, having a positive mindset makes you want to be on your toes all the time. Drop all those negativities that keeps on dragging you down. When people see you be always irritated and just practically shouting all the time, little by little, the people around you will walk away from your life.
Gratitude makes people have better relationships. In business, it can help you sell better. Being thankful makes you appreciate all the efforts of your employees, it lifts them up to do better in their jobs, thus making you a better leader.
If you feel that you are going through some tough time, there is one powerful way that can help ease your mind- say a little prayer. Ask for guidance, enlightenment, and strength. Be thankful for still being able to breathe. There are actually a lot of things to be thankful for. But most importantly, be thankful for all the blessings that come your way. You may have forgotten to say thank you to people who have been by your side. But it’s never too late to start now.
Every day may not be the best of all days and it may be hard to keep your spirits up. But just stop for a moment and quickly think things through. If you need to create a list to reminds you of the things that you need to be thankful for, do it. Our spouse or partner may not be always at our side to comfort us when we are feeling down and out. So, just make it a habit to read through your list to help calm you down.
To keep your mind off your problems for a while, do something that brings out the best in you – do your favorite sport, do some crafts, visit friends. It may not take your problems away, but it will help you remind yourself that there is something that you are good at which should help you feel better about yourself.
Consider having a feeling of gratitude beyond conditions. This means that you need to accept that there will be always a time when things will not go as planned and that no matter how much you put effort into something that it may not turn out the way you like it. Therefore, learn to channel your thoughts in a positive way. Acknowledge that you are uncomfortable or unhappy, but allow your consciousness to feel gratitude or the lessons you are learning, for the support that others give you, and for unexpected blessings.
