Once in a while, we all go through funks and difficulties and hardships -- sometimes extreme. And sometimes we need to hear someone's encouraging voice.

The quote below is obviously not mine, but rather from someone I like to refer to every now and then:

"It Is the Unconquerable Soul of Man, 

Not the Nature of the Weapon He Uses,

That Insures Victory" -General George Patton

I'm so inspired by this quote -- it puts so many things in perspective. 

Plus, here are 6 things that can help you get you back on track if you've been out of sync:

1. Mix up your morning routine -- or change it entirely - From waking up in the morning to brushing your teeth to walking the dog. You might find there a handful of things you can do differently to help you win the day. Remember, if you win the morning, you win the day. Along those lines, I highly recommend you read "the Miracle Morning" by Hal Elrod.

2. Seek advice - I suggest you regularly seek the counsel of (at least) two types of people -- someone who's an expert in your field or profession and someone completely outside of it. You will get different perspectives and the mix of both will be beneficial. Also, you will grow much more quickly if you take a mentor.

3. Do something creative - Even if you don't have a creative bone in your body, it's a good idea to get your creative juices flowing. It might be a radical shift for you, but why not? Write a short poem... try to come up with a slogan or some new headlines... draw or paint a picture of your pet, even buy a Lego set and build it. Get out of your routine.

4. Reminisce about some of your happiest memories - When things are really tough, you're bombarded with difficulties -- phone calls, bills, complaints, demands, personnel problems, etc. -- it can really weigh you down. But a helpful practice is to just stop everything and go back to what used to put a smile on your face as a kid. Had a favorite TV show? Then youtube it. A favorite comic book? Pull out one of your old stash or go buy a new one. A favorite board game? Find it and play it with your staff (how radical, right? They'll love it!) or with your family.

5. Scroll through your contacts list and use it! - Sometimes touching base and re-connecting with colleagues, customers, referral sources etc. can lead you to new business and new opportunities. 

6. Read about business people's success stories - Not only are these stories inspiring, but also educational. Look up the leaders in your industry... read about their struggles and failures and how they ultimately landed on their feet... and how they got there. They can offer you wisdom and a proven blueprint. People like Jack Welch, Richard Branson, Dave Thomas, Michael Dell, Walt Disney and so many others.

And, remember, whatever you do, never give up on your unconquerable soul.

I hope this helped... I wish you all the best in everything you do.