How to Create a New Routine as an Entrepreneur
One of the hardest aspects of becoming an entrepreneur was starting a routine. I went from working full time for a boss, managing a team, and having daily meetings…to having none of that. And it was really nice at first. But then I realized that I started procrastinating, not getting anything productive done, and has zero accountability when I launched my business.
That’s why one of the things I encourage the most when women want to start a business is creating a routine right away. This doesn’t mean you have to schedule something every hour of the day, wake up at 5am, or stay busy all day long. It just means you need a routine to guide you through the day — now that you don’t have a company deciding your time for you.
Here are a few tips on how to start a new routine:
Get in the right mindset
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of your new daily schedule, let's address the powerhouse behind it all — your mindset. Let me tell you…I didn’t even really know what mindset truly meant when I began my entrepreneurship journey. But this is really important, as it sets the tone for everything you do. Embrace the mindset of a champion — you're not just starting a business; you're crafting your legacy. Understand that challenges will arise, setbacks are inevitable, but it's your mindset that will propel you forward. Start each day with affirmations, visualize your success, and remind yourself that you're destined for greatness.
Define your vision
Every great routine is built upon a clear vision. Take the time to define your long-term goals and aspirations. What does success look like to you? Where do you envision your business in one month, one year, or five years from now? Your routine should be a roadmap leading you closer to these milestones every single day.
Focus on goal setting
With your vision in mind, break it down into actionable goals. These goals should be SMART—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. Whether it's acquiring your first client, launching a product, or hitting a revenue target, each goal should be a stepping stone toward your larger vision.
Time block, girlfriend
Time is your most valuable asset as an entrepreneur, so wield it wisely. Implement the power of time blocking to structure your day effectively. Dedicate specific blocks of time to crucial tasks such as client meetings, product development, marketing, and administrative duties. By allocating focused time to each aspect of your business, you'll avoid overwhelm and maximize productivity.
Create a morning ritual
The way you start your day sets the tone for everything that follows. Cultivate empowering morning rituals that fuel your mind, body, and spirit. Whether it's meditation, journaling, exercise, or indulging in a power-packed breakfast, prioritize activities that energize and invigorate you for the day ahead.
Set your priorities
As an entrepreneur, your to-do list may seem never-ending. However, not all tasks are created equal. Learn to prioritize ruthlessly. Focus your time and energy on high-impact activities that propel your business forward. Delegate or eliminate tasks that don't align with your goals or can be outsourced more efficiently.
Allow flexibility
Flexibility is the name of the game in the entrepreneurial world. While routines provide structure, they must also allow for adaptability. Be prepared to pivot, iterate, and evolve your routine as your business grows and market dynamics shift. Embrace change as an opportunity for innovation and growth.
Celebrate milestones
Amidst the hustle and grind, don't forget to celebrate your victories — big and small. Whether it's landing a new client, reaching a revenue milestone, or overcoming a significant challenge, take the time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements. Not only does this boost morale, but it also fuels your motivation to push forward.
Rest and recharge
Finally, remember that success isn't sustainable without proper self care. Building a routine isn't just about maximizing productivity; it's also about maintaining balance. Prioritize rest, relaxation, and rejuvenation. Schedule regular breaks, set boundaries around work hours, and indulge in hobbies and activities that nourish your soul.
Starting a routine as a new entrepreneur isn't just about ticking boxes on a checklist; it's about laying the foundation for your future success. With the right mindset, clear vision, and disciplined execution, you have the power to craft a routine that propels you toward your entrepreneurial dreams. So, embrace the journey, trust the process, and let your routine be the secret weapon that catapults you to greatness. Your entrepreneurial adventure awaits—let's conquer it together!
I talk a lot about the first year of entrepreneurship and starting a routine in this episode of The Happy LeadHer.
