Entrepreneurial Mindset: The Key to Success is Perseverance
As a high-level fitness trainer I see it all the time. I meet people in January. They have excitement and drive and they are ready to lose tons of weight; get in the best shape of their life and conquer the world!
Time goes by and most of these people show up less frequently, start gaining back weight, lose motivation and ultimately quit.
Some people achieve their goals; set new ones, and completely transform their bodies and lives!
What's the difference between failure and success?
Perseverance!
Perseverance is a steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, a state, etc., especially in spite of difficulties, obstacles, or discouragement.
Unfortunately, this isn't just a scenario in exercise. This happens in every aspect of our lives.
Being successful in any occupation takes time and consistency. I remember starting out as a personal trainer 12 years ago. I had just turned 22 years old and the gym I worked for paid me $8/hour. But I decided I would become one of the top trainers in my industry.
Day in and day out I put in the time both marketing myself and studying the most cutting edge of sports sciences. By my mid 20s I went from making $8/hr to making well over $100K/annually. This didn't come by chance; it came from having a clear purpose and following through.
I woke up every morning at 4:45 a.m. for seven straight years. While most of my friends were clocking 9-5s, I was building a strong business. Fast forward 12 years and I now sleep in until 5:15 a.m., and I have clients that pay me more than $200 a session for my expertise.
I want to be clear in telling you that there is a magic bullet. This has nothing to do with talent, or any special gifts. It's something very rare in my generation and the generations after me. It's a common thread that I have found in most very successful people.
The magic bullet is called hard work and maintaining an unwaivering commitment to excellence. Everyone has this gift, you just have to draw it out of yourself; stay the course and ultimately persevere!
As the great football coach, Vince Lombardi, said:
The difference between a successful person and others is not a lack of strength, not a lack of knowledge, but rather a lack in will.
Enjoy the journey. You won't regret it.