The demons of failure haunt you at every turn. "You're stupid." "You can't do it." "You'll only end up failing." If you hope to see a new day, a deaf ear must be turned to the demons who seek to destroy you and your business.
To chase away the dementors that threaten to sap your confidence, action is required. If you don't take action and battle these negative thoughts when they first begin to whisper into your ear, you give them a foothold from which they will destroy and devour your business and you.
The very first thing you absolutely must do is to recommit to reach your goal. Whether your goal is to make one sale, take an action that will move your business forward, or learn a new business building technique, stare your demon directly in the eyes and say, "Get thee behind me Satan!" For the devil is who controls the demons. So, if you strike down the head demon, the rest will follow. Then, replace those negative thoughts with positive ones. Repeat them often throughout the day. Write them down and place them in conspicuous places so you will frequently see them.
Prioritizing your goals is the key to successfully achieving them. Make a list of the things you need to do and then decide which is the most important and impactful. Next to each item make a note of whether it is something that only you can do, or if it is a menial task that you could hire out. Acknowledge your strengths and weaknesses. Don't be afraid to get help when and where you need it. Tell that old demon to stand aside, you have a plan and a goal to accomplish, and even if you need help to do it, it is going to get done.
The next thing you need to do is take a positive step, even if that step takes you out of your comfort zone. Pick up that phone; grab your pen; hire an assistant. Do whatever it takes to move forward with your plan.
Once you have achieved your small goal, give yourself a reward in a matching measure to the step you've taken. For instance, if your goal was to make a phone call, then grab a piece of chocolate and savor your victory. If it was to do a presentation, then buy a new outfit once you have it scheduled. You get the idea.
A bit of self-esteem does a whole lot for your self-confidence. To enhance your self-esteem try this next suggestion. Go and stand in front of a full-length mirror. Take a good look at not only what you are wearing, but how you are standing. What about your facial expression? Are you standing tall and in a confident manner, wearing a confident smile, and are well groomed? Or are you slouching, in your pajamas, or worse, unkempt looking? When you dress for success and act with confidence, those demons won't have a chance to destroy you. As a side benefit, you will find that the confidence you exude won't be wasted on those around you. Self-confidence is appealing. Those people that you come in contact with can't help but be drawn to you when your demeanor and dress tells them you are someone they want to know, or have something they must have. I am sure you have heard it said to dress for success. This is not just about the clothes on your back, but about donning the demeanor of a successful persona.
Lastly, keep moving forward, one small step at a time, and you will achieve your dream of business success.