The first step in this process is: Right-Size Your Expectations
Whenever you set out on a new behavior, project, or stage in life, it is important to break down the expectations based on past experiences or outcomes. Remember, Rome wasn't built in a day. Sometime, it can be very hard to do this for ourselves. It is much easier to do this when you are on the outside or if you have experience. By right-sizing expectations, you are setting yourself up for long-term success by avoiding early failures. Each and every failure has the ability to take the wind out of your sails. The most tenuous part of your process is the beginning. Take measures to assure early successes and you will build a strong feedback loop that will continue to drive successes and build up a reserve against future failures.
How do you right-size expectations? Get mentors who have been through these things before. They will be able to help you understand what to expect. I also recommend lowering your expectations. Understand that there will be failure and rough times. If you expect everything to be great or that you will solve the world's problems by breakfast, then you will be in for trouble.
"I overestimate what I can do in a day, but I underestimate what I can do in a year"
Focus on the long term. What did I learn today? It is possible to learn from good things as well as bad things. Don't be upset by bad days when things went terribly. Try to find something to learn from it so you can turn something that is negative into a success.
That ended up being longer than I expected but it is a work in progress. I hope you enjoy it and stay tuned for more in the future.
Andrew
@andrewzimbd