How to Train for Success Like A Badass

1. Reaching greatness does not happen overnight

No one wakes up and just runs a marathon, nor do they start a business with over-night success.  Even when we talk about an over-night success, it has usually come with months or even years of planning and hard work.  Know that you will need to work, but also be patient with yourself when it doesn't come easily or automatically.

2. There is no replacement for hard work

There are really no short cuts.  Whether reading numerous blogs a day, studying and learning about the every changing landscape marketing or meeting my running group every Saturday morning at 5:30 am, it's hard work.  There are always a few ways to shorten a learning curve or make your body stronger and faster, but it doesn't dismiss the need for hard work.

3. The only person you are competing against is yourself

Unless you are an ultra-athlete or are trying to reach the top of the Forbes 100 list, there will always be people better than you, and most likely worse than you.  Runners often talk about hitting a PR (personal record).  In both business and in a race, it's important to set goals that are realistic, reachable, require a bit of a stretch and are based on hitting your personal best.

4. Be humble and open to being coached and mentored

Arrogance will impede your growth and ability to succeed. While not all advice will be good and useful, it is important to learn from those around you. Mentors and coaches can provide valuable information on how to reach your goals, but they can also offer an emotional boost when you are faced with doubts and obstacles.

5. Be willing to coach and mentor others

Growth can come from the most unlikely sources and sometimes you find it when helping others.  Sometimes you can learn, challenge yourself and grow while mentoring others.

6. Develop a support team

Running and entrepreneurship are both individual sports, but are best when accomplished with a support team. Family, friends and a social network can help you accomplish more by encouraging you to be your best.  Don't discount the need and value of people who can encourage your and help you celebrate your successes.

7. Remove naysayers from your life

The only good thing that naysayers provide is the motivation to prove them wrong.  Don't let doubters get under your skin or diminish your ambition.  If you have negative people in your life, move them out (or at least aside) so you can stay positive and focused.

8. Know that obstacles will come

Economy ups and downs, competition and employee troubles can cause heartache, just as shin splints and plantar fasciitis can afflict your marathon training. It is not will obstacles present themselves, but when.  You can do what you can to avoid issues, but when challenges present themselves it is best to directly and swiftly address these troubles to get back on your feet sooner and stronger.

9. Embrace the journey

Nothing is worth doing if you don't enjoy it.  While there will be ups and downs, embrace and enjoy the ride. Like the great American philosopher, Ferris Bueller said "Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around for a while, you could miss it."

10. Celebrate personal wins

Take the time to enjoy your wins, no matter how small, each day. Just like running a marathon, there are months (if not years) of training and work that go into building a successful business.  There are going to be days that you feel absolutely beaten up. Even on the hard days, look for the upside. And, maybe you just completed your first ten mile run, or maybe you just had a very positive meeting; take time to pat yourself on the back and appreciate what it's taken to get you here.

The saying "It's not a sprint, it's a marathon" is truer that you might think. Just like a marathon, building your business is going to take time and there's going to be days it will hurt. But, just like a marathon, including these steps will help you reach your goals with your sanity intact.