It’s the start of a new year and you’re pumped! You’ve set some goals, you’re motivated, you have systems in place, and you’ve even downloaded an app that’s going to keep you organized.

But let’s face it, no matter how determined you are, there will be times when progress is slow, when external factors worry you, or your support network waivers. And that’s completely normal.

So what can you do to stay on track when your motivation starts to wane?

Here are 5 strategies you can try, including some inspiration from our clients:

1. Remember what motivated you to start this journey.

For some, the thought of going back to the way things were can be reason enough to push forward. Build your motivators into your business and stay true to them.

I knew that I was capable of more than the 9-5 grind that I had found myself in, I spent my life in many jobs/roles that didn’t inspire, motivate or keep my interest. I love the challenges of learning, growing and having the freedom to design my career, and help my clients achieve the best in their lives. I was also very excited about building a community around my dream and vision.

Christine Banno owner of SWEAT Vancity, North Vancouver.

2. Focus on your strengths.

Problem solving, people skills, perseverance, attention to detail, organization, intuition, passion… read any of our Client success stories and you’ll see, each woman has leveraged her own unique strength(s).

Embrace what helps you succeed as an entrepreneur.

I am always open to new ideas. In business, things never go exactly as per the expectation. Being too rigid can cause a lot of unnecessary grief. Being open has allowed me to discover new and better experiences and help my clients more.”

Dr. Amanda Chay of The Natural Path Clinic, Rossland

3. Create a mission statement.

Writing your thoughts down helps to origanize your ideas and creates clarity.

Write down why you are here, where you are going, and how you will accomplish what you’ve set out to do.

For me it wasn’t about taking the leap, I was already all-in, but how was I going to do it? How was I going to scale a better, cleaner ice cream product with no understanding of the industry or the frozen CPG (consumer packaged goods) category. I didn’t have any understanding of how the industry worked nor who worked in it. But I believed a better ice cream product was needed and customers would buy it and that I had the chutzpa to get it on frozen shelves.

Lori Joyce, BetterWith, Victoria

4. Build your passion into your business.

If you don’t do this, if your commitment is half-hearted, it will affect how secure you feel in your decision and your ability to move forward.

When we started out, there were a lot of doubters out there (and they’re still out there), who thought that starting a business to change the world was a nice thought, but a bad idea. It hasn’t been easy, but we’ve persevered against all odds. If it wasn’t for a high level of confidence and belief in our team’s ability to make GreenStep’s vision a reality, we would not be here today.

Angela Nagy, GreenStep Solutions, Kelowna

5. Connect with a mentor or support group.

It’s easy to become temporarily un-motivated, especially when you’re working alone. Re-connecting with other women in business may be all you need to do to feel positive again.

An informal get-together with your support team, or participating in a formal mentoring program could be all you need to get back on track and stay motivated.

You get so wrapped up in what’s not working that it becomes overwhelming, and you lose your motivation. Sometimes you start dealing with imposter syndrome. The very first mentoring program I took part in was at the beginning of last year. Being around other women after an hour or two or three, was fantastic. Getting different perspectives was so beneficial. Because you get so wrapped up in where you are now that you don’t really see things the same way; Someone else, given the information, can be more objective.

Gwen Arrowsmith, 4Paws Pure, Prince George

Everyone has good days and bad days. It’s what you do during the down times that will determine your success as an entrepreneur.

Remember, you’re not alone and there are many resources to help you and we are here to support you at every stage of your business journey – take a look at what we have to offer!

This article is based on a section in the Taking the Leap to Entrepreneurship resource guide created by WeBC. Download it for free here >>