As an entrepreneur, you are well aware that your success cannot be contingent on the judgments of others. As with the wind, opinions fluctuate…as with the weather, opinions fluctuate constantly. To succeed in any activity, you must maintain your course…at any cost! Here are some tried-and-true strategies to assist you on your course.

Abstain from negativity. We are surrounded by negative individuals. They can be family members or a close friend. Oftentimes, it’s the opinions of complete strangers that generate the greatest animosity, as if someone who does’nt know or understand you is capable of expressing a rational opinion about you.

No, you should not shun those in your immediate circle; rather, there are topics of discussion that are less profitable. Accept constructive criticism with grace, but divert the topic away from endless negative talk. Unless you take control, negativity will grow on you.

Strengthen Yourself. No, I am not suggesting that you inflate your ego; rather, you can be your own best source of encouragement by encouraging yourself. How are you going to accomplish this? Read the testimonies of previous entrepreneurs/successful entrepreneurs. Richard Branson, Dr. Claude Anderson, and the great Earvin “Magic” Johnson are among contemporary success tales of persons who rose from “rags to riches” [or from humble beginnings to tremendous influence]. There are several success tales from the past, including those of Earl Graves Sr., James Forten, and Thomas Jennings.

Return to the Beginning.  If you begin to doubt, consider what prompted you to take your “leap of faith” in the first place. Recall what it takes to succeed: discipline, self-confidence, independence, perseverance, and sacrifice, among other things. Consider the anticipated outcomes: a comfortable income, independence, a career you enjoy, and so forth. Finally, recall the worst job you’ve ever had…imagine yourself doing it again. Blah! Utilize all means necessary to push yourself.

Therefore, cast off negative ideas and focus on what is uplifting, motivating, encouraging, warm, kind, and helpful. You are on track to accomplish great things as long as you don’t let the negative remarks of others to distract you.