Athletes have certain "tricks of the trade" to achieve success. Many of these tactics can translate into success as a small business owner, network marketer or solo entrepreneur as well. Here are some tips on using an athlete's mindset to win in your business.

Train with Others - What do you think is the single most important tool necessary to the success of an athlete? Most people would say it's a coach. It is unheard of for any athlete wanting to reach an elite level to even consider training himself. Additionally, many successful athletes spend the majority of their training time in groups. The natural support, energy and accountability that come from a team are inspiring. Why, then, do so many small business owners work completely on their own (hence the term, "SOLO entrepreneur") and then wonder why they are struggling? No matter what stage you are in with your small business, it is imperative that you surround yourself with others who will help you move on to the next level. This group should consist of people in different stages themselves. Include "experts"-those who have already accomplished the things you are working to achieve-as well as fellow entrepreneurs who are getting started (your "training team"). Single people rarely achieve great things all by themselves. Being the "lone ranger" doesn't set you up for success as well as finding people who have gone before you and learning from them.

Be Disciplined - One of the nicest things about being an entrepreneur is having the freedom to make your own schedule. Generally speaking, you're in charge of what hours you work and when you have meetings. Unfortunately, this freedom can also be a curse for many entrepreneurs. Some struggle to develop the daily routines that are necessary to succeed in any small business. There's no way an Olympic runner would pause between laps to check e-mail or stop for coffee with a friend in the middle of a training session. Take a lesson from that dedication. As you plan activities in your week, block out periods of time that are dedicated to work and do not allow anything to interrupt them.

Take Necessary Breaks - At first glance, this may sound like a contradiction of the last step. It's not, however. In fact, creating balance is an important part of discipline. Athletes train hard but they also take breaks they when their bodies need to rest. If you don't allow your body the chance to recover, injury and burnout can take you completely out of the game, sometimes even permanently. In your life as an entrepreneur, you also need periods of downtime so you can refuel. Once you take this break, you can return to your business, reinvigorated and prepared to move forward.

The next time you attend an athletic event or settle in to watch your favorite sport on television - consider the attitudes and ways of being that have brought these athletes to such inspiring levels of success. Apply these disciplines to your small business and you too will experience victory.