When I first started my private practice, Mentally Fit With Ellin, I had big goals and an even bigger vision. As a Licensed Mental Health Counselor and Certified Nutrition and Performance Coach specializing in sport and performance psychology, I wanted to create a space that empowers individuals to build mental resilience, unlock their potential, and lead fulfilling lives.
My journey wasn’t just about starting a business—it was about aligning my passions with a greater purpose: helping people cultivate mental fitness as a foundation for happiness and success. I believe true fitness goes beyond the physical; it’s about working your mind as a muscle, just as you would train your body.
But let me tell you, stepping into entrepreneurship wasn’t without its challenges. I felt the pressure to get everything right, make every step perfect, and have all the answers. Sound familiar? If you’re like me, you understand how heavy that pressure can feel. It didn’t take long for me to realize that mindset wasn’t serving me—it was holding me back.
What I’ve learned—and what I want to share with you—is that entrepreneurship isn’t about perfection. It’s about staying curious, consistent, and rooted in your purpose. You don’t have to have everything figured out from the start—trust me, no one does. But how do you approach the journey mentally? That’s what will set you apart.
So, let’s get into it—here’s what I’ve learned about mindset on this path to creating meaningful impact:
1. Embrace the Beginner’s Mindset
Even if you have years of experience, you’ve got to approach everything with curiosity. The most successful entrepreneurs don’t operate from a place of “I already know this.” Instead, they’re asking, “What else can I learn? What haven’t I explored yet?” When you’re open to learning, you stay flexible and ready to adapt, no matter what challenges pop up. Every challenge is just information. That’s the key to growth—it’s not about being an expert right away. It’s about constantly refining, learning new skills, and gathering insights.
Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Sometimes, we avoid asking because we feel like we should know the answers. But real strength is in admitting what you don’t know. If you’re not an expert in finance or marketing, ask. Outsource. Be curious enough to seek out help and guidance where you need it. No one can be good at everything, and that’s okay. You don’t have to carry it all on your own—your curiosity is your greatest asset.
2. Let Go of Perfection—Focus on Consistency
Perfectionism is a trap. I used to spend so much time making sure everything was flawless before I moved forward, and I’m willing to bet some of you can relate. But here’s the truth: real progress happens when you show up every day, even when things aren’t perfect.
And I get it—I’m an overachiever too. This is still something I’m working on. But perfection isn’t the goal. It’s about the small, consistent actions you take every single day. You can’t do everything great all at once. Focus on what you can do right now, today. Then think about what you can do tomorrow. Those small steps will build momentum and create the lasting impact you’re striving for.
Start by visualizing the small actions you can take daily. Maybe today you focus on building a connection, tomorrow you take one step toward your financial goals, and the next day, you tweak your marketing. These little actions will create a rhythm—and when you focus on rhythm, things start to feel less overwhelming and more manageable.
3. Manage Your Energy, Not Just Your Time
Here’s something I wish I’d learned earlier—it’s not just about time management, it’s about energy management. Think about the times of day when you’re most productive and the tasks that drain you versus those that give you energy. Recognize when you’re in flow, and align your most important work with those moments.
And be willing to outsource when needed. You don’t have to be involved in every single aspect of your business. When you delegate tasks that drain you, it frees you up to focus on what lights you up and allows you to do the work that moves the needle.
4. Play the Long Game
Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. It’s easy to get caught up in chasing quick wins or immediate results, but when you do, you lose sight of the bigger picture. Building something meaningful takes time, and it’s going to require patience, resilience, and a commitment to your vision. Stay rooted in your long-term goals, and don’t let short-term setbacks shake your focus.
A great way to stay locked into that long game is by using mental skills like visualization. Picture yourself reaching your goals—what does it feel like? What steps did you take to get there? When you consistently visualize your success, it helps you align your daily actions with the long-term vision you have for yourself.
5. Control the Controllables
This is huge. There are going to be things that feel completely out of your hands—and they probably are. But what you can control is your effort, preparation, and attitude. These are the three things that will help you move forward, even when the world around you feels uncertain. I like to think of it as A.P.E.: Attitude, Preparation, Effort.
When you focus on what’s in your control, you free yourself from the stress of trying to change what you can’t. That’s the mindset that keeps you grounded, moving forward, and able to stay true to your purpose.
“Building something meaningful takes time, and it’s going to require patience, resilience, and a commitment to your vision.”
6. Stay Purpose-Driven, Not Profit-Driven
Here’s something that will keep you going when things get tough: stay connected to your “why.” If you’re in a mission-driven field, whether it’s healthcare, nonprofit, or any kind of meaningful work, remember that your success isn’t just about profit. It’s about the impact you create and the lives you touch.
Your purpose is your fuel. Journaling or writing down what you’re grateful for each morning is a great way to stay grounded in that purpose. When you start your day with gratitude and a clear sense of why you’re doing what you’re doing, it sets the tone for everything else. The money and the success may come, but your mission is what will keep you motivated when the going gets tough.
7. You’re Not Alone
Finally, don’t be afraid to lean on others for support. Whether it’s hiring a coach, working with a therapist, or surrounding yourself with a community of like-minded people, you don’t have to do this alone. Sometimes, having someone to help you see things from a new perspective is exactly what you need to stay on track.
You’ve got the vision. Now it’s about building the mindset to bring it to life. Stay curious, stay consistent, and stay true to your purpose. You’re on your way to creating something incredible. Keep going—you’ve got this.
— Ellin
