Persistence

[norbert]

As I have explained it here, I used to fall back to my original levels after some days of successfully living what I decided to do. This is what's happening to me over and over again. I believe it's easier for Steve because he has Erin on his side and they keep each other living on purpose. Sadly I have nobody to share this on a daily (hourly?) basis. What do you suggest me to stay on track (with focusing on contribution, mainly)?

[gberardi]

I'm just going to throw these ideas out there, so forgive me if I say something that makes little sense.

What you seem to be experiencing is the natural ebb and flow of life. You take two steps forward and then one step back. It's progress, but when you take a step back, it seems like you failed and "lost it". Steve Chandler (100 Ways to Motivate Yourself) mentions this idea, and his suggestion is to plan your comeback while on top.

Basically, when things are going well, know that things might eventually go less well or even badly. When things are going well, you can make plans to get away, coming back refreshed and renewed and ready.

As for sharing, there are these forums, and you could always start a blog. I started almost two years ago, and I was surprised to have a following even though when I started it I didn't think that I would have anyone paying attention to what I say.

In the past few months, I felt like I was failing, and it was actually encouraging to have people posting comments on my blog. Some people were just giving me friendly advice, and others were practically demanding some accountability for the things I was planning on doing! When you work as an employee, it's easier because there is always a boss asking for your productivity. When you work for yourself, you're it. To have people encouraging me and looking for results, even though they have no obligation, is amazing.

Sometimes you'll feel alone. I've recently decided to adopt a vegan diet, and I already had an entrepreneurial mindset which makes it difficult to talk to those people with an employee mindset. So far, I've taken comfort in the idea that I don't WANT to be like most people, but I'd like to find more like-minded friends. Like I said, it gets lonely. B-\

I also need to be better at being persistent and focused. I've just learned that when I fail or otherwise feel like I came up short, I can't beat myself up over it. Feeling guilty or otherwise incongruent, as Steve would say, isn't going to help. Just correct your heading, and continue.