I believe the spiritual aspect of life, especially to entrepreneurs, is very important. While business may be the focal point for an entrepreneur’s life, it’s your outlook on life that shapes what kind of person you are.
Having a strong sense of self can benefit your business in many ways. The down periods and business ‘tragedies’ are not so bad for the entrepreneur that is spiritually centred. Don’t take life too seriously is a phrase that every entrepreneur should take to heart and remember during the ups and downs of business.
I just finished reading a blog post from an entrepreneur friend of mine about meditation. My friend is meditating, and he’s doing it a lot, which I find quite admirable. If he isn’t careful he might give up business all together and follow the path of the monk searching for enlightenment, which may not be such a bad thing and perhaps even more rewarding than business ever could be.
I’ve attempted meditation for many reasons but more often as a method to deal with tough times in my life. I realise the need for meditation and spirituality during all times of life but as I’m sure many of you can identify with me when I say I don’t look for help when times are great, I’m too busy revelling in the excitement.
As an entrepreneur I consider myself quite a creative person. I’m not gifted in art or music but certainly as a writer and business creator/manager I feel that I am definitely more bohemian than most. I think most entrepreneurs feel the same because we are not following the same path a lot of other people take when they work a normal job. Often the thought of a ‘job’ is not appealing and the prospect of working 9-5 for a salary is daunting. We take a risk by being different and expose ourselves to the often adverse opinions of those that believe we are making a mistake by not seeking a standard career. It takes a person of strong character and personal convictions to stand up to what can be a barrage of negative feedback from your peers and family.
I’m also more sensitive to my environment and the people around me. I live a controlled life and make sure that I eat well, sleep plenty and by choice I don’t drink any alcohol. I have nothing against drinking (in moderation), it’s just a choice I’ve made. I don’t party hard on weekends, again by choice because I prefer to get a good nights sleep so I feel good during the day. Because of this I don’t get sick too often (touch wood) and I feel at the top of my game everyday. I’m not saying do what I do, it’s possible to party and drink and have a good time and be a very successful entrepreneur, just remember moderation and balance and your health should always be your primary concern.
A spiritually fulfilling life can be very rewarding. It provides a strong personal framework that offers stability during tough times and allows you to keep perspective when business is booming. It’s not easy to be disciplined but as usual, for those that put the effort in the rewards are there.