As a woman entrepreneur, do you wonder what mental mojo will keep you re-energized for a brave, new world?
Answering that question made me think about what got me through 2020. I came up with 7 critical ways of dealing with uncertainty and building my biz. Then put them all in a fun guide here.
Now, I want to add #8: Keep Pedaling
You see, right before the pandemic, I bought a bike after not riding for nearly 20 years. Since then, I’ve been cycling. Lots of cycling. Including my first Century Ride, which is a 100-mile bike ride in one day.
I didn’t even know what a Century Ride was over a year ago. If you told me, I would have never imagined completing one myself. I mean, that’s crazy pants. And cycling has some crazy, padded pants (which I now totally appreciate).
But all those miles training and then doing the Century have taught me that I can endure and go beyond what I’ve done in the past. If I keep pedaling. Through these three basic terrains:
Terrain #1: Flat
Every cyclist loves an open, flat road. Pedaling is smooth, steady, and you’re making great progress. If there’s road debris, you can go around. If there’s a stoplight, you can pause. If you need to slow down, you can.
Adjust and keep pedaling.
Terrain #2: Uphill
The first two miles of the trail I ride several times a week is almost all uphill. The first time I had to stop part way and walk up. Since then, I’ve learned how to stay on my bike, get to the top, and have energy for the rest of my ride.
They key is to downshift to the lowest gear I need to have a smooth, steady crank. And then only focus on the next 10 feet rather than the very top of the hill.
Downshift, keep focused on what’s in front of you, and keep pedaling.
Terrain #3: Downhill
What goes up must come down, which to a cyclist is a beautiful thing. I know coming home that I have two miles of a fast, fun ride that’s a reward for all the miles before. I also know that after reaching the bottom there’s a slight upward incline before I’m done.
So, I’ve learned that it’s smart to pedal downhill. That way when I get to the bottom, it’s easier to keep going, whether flat or facing another hill.
Rather than coasting when things are easy and fun, keep pedaling to go even faster to make the most of your momentum.
You’ll Get There
Just like riding a bike on changing terrain, nothing stays the same in your business or life. Be ready for changes.
Like making small adjustments, downshifting, focusing on what’s in front of you, and pedaling downhill to leverage your success.
But never give up. Keep pedaling. You will go farther than you ever thought possible.
If you are looking for some guidance to make this year your best yet, check out my free guide From Now On: 7 Critical Mindset Shifts for Women Entrepreneurs Going Forward.