The Gap: How to Stay Motivated as a Business Owner
A few years ago, I read an article that stuck in my mind, and I recently came across it again. It discussed how your mental status and feelings can significantly impact your progress and motivation. The concept comes from Dan Sullivan and The Strategic Coach—The Gap.
As business owners, we’re always planning for and thinking about the future. Having a plan is fantastic and, frankly, essential for achieving long-term goals. However, if you’re constantly focused on how far you still have to go, it’s easy to feel stressed, disappointed, or overwhelmed. STOP thinking that way!
Why Planning for the Future Can Feel Overwhelming
The journey of building a business is rarely linear. Challenges arise, goals shift, and the pressure to succeed can feel immense. While focusing on the future is important, it often creates a sense of inadequacy when you compare where you are now to where you want to be.
That’s when you need to shift your perspective and think about The Gap
What Is ‘The Gap’ Mindset?
“The Gap” isn’t the space between where you are and where you want to be—it’s the space between where you are now and where you started. This shift in perspective helps you reflect on the progress you’ve made instead of obsessing over the distance to your goals.
How Reflecting on Progress Fuels Motivation
Feeling overwhelmed in business is common. Some days, it might seem like you’re up against the impossible—your goals feel out of reach, or the obstacles seem insurmountable. But taking 2–3 minutes to reflect on how far you’ve come can make all the difference.
Ask yourself:
- Where did I start?
- What challenges have I overcome?
- What lessons have I learned along the way?
By focusing on your accomplishments, you’ll gain renewed motivation and confidence to tackle the road ahead.
Celebrate Success to Achieve Long-Term Goals
Celebrating your achievements isn’t just about feeling good—it’s about fueling your future success. When you recognize the progress you’ve made, it builds momentum and reinforces a positive mindset. This mindset helps you stay focused on achieving your quarterly priorities, annual goals, and long-term vision.
Take a Moment to Reflect
The next time you feel overwhelmed by how far you have to go, stop and think about The Gap. Celebrate your progress and let it inspire you to keep moving forward.
If you found this valuable, explore more insights on business growth and motivation in our other blogs.