Staying Upbeat

by Matthew Best

Every once in awhile, even the most positive person will allow themselves to feel the effects of what is going on around them. It can be difficult for entrepreneurs to stay upbeat - the constant drumbeat of the media about the recession, hearing about it from friends and family, seeing it in the newspaper, etc. What's a person to do? Here's a few quick tips.

First - tune out as much of it as you can. You know what the news is going to report don't you? Death, destruction, loss, fire, damage, crime, woe-is-me stories, etc. That's what counts as news these days - skip it. If anything important happens, you'll find out - someone is bound to tell you about it.

Second - get serious about your goals. Nothing generates a positive outlook like success. Take a look at your goals and start working on them every day - do one thing today that will bring you closer to your goal. Then, when you accomplish the goal, set another one.

Third - Get creative. Generating new ideas, creating new partnerships and joint ventures, and offering new products are great ways to stay upbeat. You are most positive when your creative juices are flowing - you are focused on opportunities and possibilities.

Fourth - Create a two minute complaining session. That's right, set aside two minutes to just complain, mope, feel sorry for yourself, have a pity party, etc. Really get into the moment with this. You'll get that "down" feeling all in at once for the day, and everything else will feel a heck of a lot better.

Fifth - Exercise. When I'm feeling down or low on energy, I go for run. The toughest part is getting out the door, but as soon as I get going, I always feel better. And when I get back - I'm revived. Find your own exercise routine - even if it's walking for 15 Minutes. Getting up and moving will refresh you and give you energy.

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