Overcoming The Urge To Quit: Insights From Entrepreneurs

Overcoming the Urge to Quit: Insights from Entrepreneurs

Contributed by SBOC Member:

Pat Miller

Founder of the Small Business Owners Community

There are days in the life of an entrepreneur that test your resolve, where things slow down, frustrations mount, and you find yourself wondering if you're really cut out for this.

I know the feeling all too well, having been there myself quite recently.

It’s moments like these that make you consider the easier path — working for someone else, earning a steady paycheck, and letting someone else tackle the big problems.

But what do you do when that thought of quitting creeps in? I took this question to my LinkedIn network to hear how fellow entrepreneurs handle these testing times.

Community Responses on Handling Tough Times

Laura Holliman kicked us off with a touch of humor, admitting she had thought about quitting just that morning. It’s always refreshing to know you’re not alone in your struggles, right?Joseph Levy shared how reconnecting with the purpose of his job in higher education helps him regain focus. Talking with passionate students and staff reminds him of the impact he’s making, which is a powerful motivator to keep pushing forward.

Shari Danielak looks at the bigger picture when times get tough. She focuses on her mission and vision, and the joy she derives from making a positive difference in her clients’ lives. Considering the alternative—returning to work for someone else—helps reaffirm her commitment to her entrepreneurial journey.

Thomas Auld has not felt the desire to quit since starting his business in 2014. He sees challenges as opportunities to pivot and add new services, keeping his business fresh and relevant.

Daron Powers faced a major setback in March 2020 when the pandemic hit, drying up his pipeline of new clients. Instead of giving up, he shifted to personal and professional coaching for mental fitness, finding new fulfillment and success.

Jill Melford gets creative when motivation wanes. She dives into consumer trends to develop new products, turning financial stress into an opportunity for innovation and profitability.

Chris Wallace combats negative thoughts by practicing gratitude. Making a list of what he’s grateful for in his business and life changes his perspective and helps him see situations in a new light.

The Value of Diverse Perspectives

Each of these responses highlights a unique strategy for tackling the urge to quit, demonstrating the power of perspective in overcoming entrepreneurial challenges.

Whether it’s humor, purpose, gratitude, or innovation, finding your method to cope and push forward is crucial.

These stories are just a glimpse of the kind of support and insights available in our Small Business Owner Community.

If you ever find yourself doubting your path, remember, you’re not alone.

We’re all in this together, sharing strategies, wins, and yes, even our moments of doubt.

Here, you’ll find not only support and networking opportunities but also the collective wisdom of people who’ve been exactly where you are now. Don’t grow it alone® —let’s tackle these challenges together. Join us today and turn your moments of doubt into stepping stones for success.

Contributed by

Pat Miller

Founder of the Small Business Owners Community

Pat spent two decades in broadcasting management and hosting. After leaving the radio industry, he spent time consulting small businesses and realized the support system for entrepreneurs was broken. Where could you find help for improving small businesses and building real connections with other like-minded people. In June of 2020, the Idea Collective Small Business Community was born.