Finding Happiness - The Grumpy Business Owner.

Owning a successful business doesn't mean you will be happy. Sure, you might be well-off financially speaking, but this doesn't mean you will be happy. In fact, you might not even have a chance to enjoy success as you try to keep up with a booming company. I've been there. I know what it means to stay balanced and happy while stressing out while a company takes over. Trust me- this is a blessing but you also deserve to be happy. Here are my tips.

Know who your friends are- and don't assume they work along side you. Your employees, networking buddies, think tank group- etc. are not your friends. Sure, they may aspire to be you and love the material items you do have- but they are not your friends. They will not offer you good advise and they are not likely to be there for you in the long run. Real relationships lead to happiness. Stop hanging out with people who like your things or love your success and not you! When the work day is done- run. You need to find true support with people, not envy.

Listen to people. Yes, happiness can be this simple. When you interrupt someone, you send a message that you truly don't care what he or she has to say because you feel you have something more important. People love when they are listened to. Don't you love it when someone is clinging to your every word? So, listen to others and wait for your turn to speak. More people will adore and value your time. You will feel happier simply learning to listen.

Let go of fear. Business owners are risk takers and secret worriers. "When will the success stop" is a common question asked by business owners of themselves. Don't worry. Prepare for the worst, expect the best. Worrying adds stress to your life. We often worry about things we can't control. Do your best to prepare and execute in business and leave the rest to God or fate. You will be happier.

Finding happiness in life is a struggle. Finding it conducting business can be next to impossible. Leave the worry behind, take time to listen and know who your true friends are. These three simple steps will lead you to a happy journey along life's road!

Twyla