It’s been fun watching the American Ninja Warrior competition
where athletes move quickly through different kinds of obstacle courses to
reach their goal.
As a
business owner or executive, there are parallels you experience as you grow
your business.
Here are
three Ninja inspired keys to moving through obstacles in your business more
easily.
1. Commit.
One key to the success of exceptional athletes is their
ability to fully commit to the process. When the athletes get a running start
to conquer the obstacle course, they don’t hesitate, look back or question
their decision. They go for it.
If they do
hesitate, they will stumble, lose time or fail.
Once you’ve
made your decision, move. Play it out. Replace any doubt with determination.
Entrepreneurs
are especially likely to look around at new ideas and possibilities. While not
always a bad thing, too much distraction impedes your action.
Stay focused on your next step so you’re not distracted by
anything that will keep you from achieving what you want.
Assess your
level of commitment based on your actions, not just words.
2. Bounce back.
Build your
resilience. Inevitably there will be times when you fail or you can’t complete
the course. You might not get over the wall.
Maybe you
didn’t get the funding you needed, you lost a big piece of business or your
star employee quit.
Major
business setbacks can negatively impact your mindset, health, relationships or well-being.
The most
impressive athletes don’t beat themselves up. They acknowledge that they made a
mistake, but they don’t dwell on it. They recommit and refocus on the goal.
Do whatever
you need to do to make yourself feel good. Your mood affects your mindset. The
better you feel, the easier it will be to shake off whatever negative
experience has occurred.
Some of the most successful Ninja athletes are simply being
themselves and having fun. Do more of that in your business to minimize any
negative impact. You’ll navigate your business obstacle course more easily.
3. Find your fans.
If you feel
like you’re going it alone, find the coach and fans you need. Be specific about
what you think you need. Ask for help when you need it.
Start or
join a mastermind group. Fans are waiting for
you there in the form of other business owners and executives. You’ll be
surprised to see how many people have experienced a similar obstacle. Learn from
them.
Spend more
time with people you enjoy. You’re more likely to develop mutual “fan
like” relationships where there is support or camaraderie.
Appreciate
those who have believed in you, invested in your business or given you support
along the way. Those fans will create more fans for you.
Do
something simple today to express a little appreciation to someone in your
network.
Obstacles are a part of business and life. You don’t have to
face them alone. And shouldn’t if you want to achieve the success you desire
and deserve.
What’s one of the biggest obstacles you’re facing in your
business? I’d love to know.