Inspiration espresso: 5 quick-hit motivational quotes for small business owners

“Running a small business is ridiculously easy” – nobody, ever.

There is no denying that running a small business requires a specialist skills and approaching problem-solving like a competitive sport.

With many small business owners working on their own, at least in the beginning, this adverse environment can feel lonely.

Sometimes, even the most motivated founder needs a nudge in the direction of progress.

So, I’ve listed five quotes I’ve often read back to myself over the last 10+ years of small business ownership.

I hope that you also find some spark of inspiration in these words.

Mark Twain on getting started (Image credit: Getty Images/ Library of Congress) Key takeaway: Stop waiting for the perfect time.

We’ve all been there: we have a great business idea, but the time isn’t right.

The same excuses circulate in our heads.

Not enough money, the market isn’t ready, where will I find the time…what if I fail? This quote from Mark Twain reminds us that action always precedes progress.

If you knew you needed to fail 100 times before you succeed, wouldn’t you want to start failing as soon as possible? The best time is right now.

Bill Gates on unhappy customers (Image credit: Getty Images) Key takeaway: Feedback isn't an attack; it's valuable R&D.

Small business owners can easily obsess over keeping customers happy.

After all, losing just one customer can significantly affect business success.