by Samantha Holway, Vice President of Regional Sales and Business Development for North America at Herbalife
In my work supporting thousands of independent business owners and entrepreneurs across the country, I’ve seen a clear pattern emerge. Success isn’t built overnight; it’s built through consistent habits that compound over time.
And with November marking National Entrepreneurship Month, it’s an ideal time to reflect on the daily disciplines that drive long-term business growth and resilience.
Recent research commissioned by Herbalife and reported by Talker News found that nearly one in three Americans now consider themselves entrepreneurs, including 36% of Gen Z and 39% of millennials. Younger generations are approaching entrepreneurship with optimism, creativity, and a desire for greater control over their future, reflecting how today’s workforce continues to evolve.
But optimism alone doesn’t create a thriving business. The entrepreneurs who succeed, whether they’re running full-scale companies or managing side hustles, are those who turn big goals into daily disciplines.
These are the habits I see time and again in the people who don’t just start strong but stay strong.
1. Start Each Day with Intention.
Successful entrepreneurs begin their day with purpose. They plan their priorities before distractions take over.
Some of the most consistent leaders I work with start each morning by reviewing their goals and connecting with a few clients, partners, or colleagues. Those simple steps create early momentum and set the tone for the rest of the day.
When you begin with intention, every action, no matter how small, moves you closer to your goals. For example, write down your top three priorities before opening your laptop and commit to finishing them before noon.
2. Stay Curious and Keep Learning.
The best entrepreneurs never stop learning. They’re open to new skills, perspectives, and ideas that help them grow personally and professionally.
In today’s fast-changing environment, curiosity is essential. Whether it’s attending a training, learning from a mentor, or exploring new ways to serve customers, continuous learning keeps you adaptable and confident.
When you approach every challenge with curiosity, even setbacks become opportunities to grow. Set aside 30 minutes each week to read, listen, or learn something that strengthens your business.
3. Build Relationships That Last.
Strong relationships are the foundation of any successful business. Great entrepreneurs lead with care, empathy, and authenticity.
The most effective leaders I know spend time understanding their customers and teams. They listen, follow up, and genuinely invest in people’s success. Over time, those individual connections grow into a community built on trust, support, and shared purpose. Successful entrepreneurs understand the power of community and how it can inspire growth, resilience, and long-term success.
When you focus on connection before transaction, you create loyalty that lasts far beyond a single sale. This week, take a few minutes to reach out to three people such as clients, partners, or colleagues to check in and reconnect. A simple conversation can strengthen relationships and remind others that you are in their corner.
4. Stay Consistent When It’s Hard.
Every entrepreneur faces challenges such as slow periods, self-doubt, or shifting goals. What sets successful people apart is that they keep showing up.
Consistency doesn’t mean working nonstop. It means honoring your commitments and staying focused even when it’s uncomfortable. Over time, steady effort builds trust, credibility, and results.
When things get tough, remember that progress often happens quietly, one consistent day at a time. Track your weekly activity, including outreach, meetings, or milestones, and focus on effort, not just outcomes.
5. Celebrate Progress Along the Way.
Entrepreneurs tend to be goal-driven, but success isn’t only about reaching the finish line. It’s also about recognizing the growth that happens along the journey.
Taking a moment to celebrate small wins, such as a productive week or a personal breakthrough, helps reinforce motivation and gratitude.
When you make progress visible, you remind yourself and your team that every step counts. At the end of each week, write down one win and one lesson learned to reinforce progress and perspective.
A New Era of Entrepreneurship
Today’s entrepreneurs are more diverse, tech-savvy, and purpose-driven than ever before. They’re creating their own opportunities and redefining what success looks like.
I’ve seen these same habits drive lasting success among the entrepreneurs I work with every day. They prove that consistency, curiosity, and connection aren’t just business strategies; they’re the foundation of long-term growth.
No matter where you are in your journey, success begins with showing up, learning continuously, and leading with purpose.
Samantha Holway is Vice President of Regional Sales and Business Development for North America at Herbalife. She leads initiatives that empower thousands of independent distributors to build thriving wellness businesses and foster stronger communities. With more than a decade of experience in sales leadership, training, and business growth, Samantha is passionate about helping entrepreneurs develop the habits and skills that drive lasting success.
