3. Attend training. Take a computer skills class or attend a workshop to hone some of your skills. They don’t even have to be directly related to your business. Try something general like communication skills, a writing course or a workshop on how to close a sell.

4. Chase a dream. Even corporations are sending their executives to open a flower shop or to climb Mount Everest. There’s a lot to be said about doing something far different than your day-to-day duties to give you a different perspective about what you do. Fulfilling a dream, either professionally or personally, has a profound effect on us in our careers and how motivated we are.

5. Work with a business coach. Working with a business coach will help you set some goals for your business that can help keep you motivated! Having both long-term and short-term goals are important. It pumps us up to see instant success, but it’s also very gratifying to meet a long-term goal, too! Both do a lot to keep small business owners motivated.

Most small business owners give their hearts and souls to their companies, especially during critical first five years. It’s important to remember, though, that keeping our lives in balance always helps at work. Nobody can consistently work 80 hours or more a week without becoming burned out. Spend time with your family and friends, take time for your own interests, create time for a spiritual life and take care of your physical health, and you’ll be well on your way to staying motivated!