Every business owner has times of frustration, when nothing seems to go right and every customer seems to be displeased. So, how do we find inspiration to move forward during those times? Here are a few ideas:

1. Talk to Someone
Sometimes the best way to get the frustration out is to simply talk about it. That may mean coffee with a close friend or it may mean making an appointment with a counselor. Either way, find a trusted person to talk with and who will give you godly advice.

2. Listen to Inspiring Music
There are certain songs that lift my spirits when I find myself "in a funk." For me, tunes from Christian artists like Toby Mac, Britt Nicole and LeCrae are what get my foot tappin'. Find what works for you and make a point to really listen to the words and enjoy the music. Let it lift you out of the doldrums.

3. Do Something for Yourself
I know this goes against the grain for many of us, but there really does come a time when it's okay to do something for yourself that you enjoy. It may be getting a pedicure, going out to lunch with a friend, or even grocery shopping by yourself (you moms out here know what I mean by this one).

4. Do Something for Someone Else
This one seems counter-productive. How can do something for someone else help ME? But it's amazing how helping someone really does bless the giver as much as the recipient. If you enjoy cooking, make a meal for someone who is struggling. If you like to clean, help a new mom get some of her household chores under control.

5. Take Yourself to the Movies
This one seems almost silly, but movies truly can inspire.  We watched Here Comes the Boom, a great movie with Christian undertones (see Kevin James' interview about his faith in The Christian Post). It's an inspirational movie that made me want to go out and live boldly. Find a movie that inspires you and allow yourself to soak it in.

6. Do Something New
Sometimes just stepping out of your comfort zone is enough to chase the doldrums away. Take a chance. Join that new Bible Study at church. Join that new class at the gym. Push yourself to do something you normally wouldn't do.

7. Learn Something
You know that cooking class that you've been wanting to take at the community college down the road? Now is the time. Or maybe it's a class at your local craft store. Why not now?

8. Go Outside
I've always been a bookworm, so playing outside felt like punishment to me when I was young. Now I look forward to those sunny days where I can be outside with my kids. Take some time to stroll through the park, go fishing, or take a bike ride. Soak in the sunshine and let it sooth your soul.

9. Get Moving - literally
About a year ago, my husband and I made the commitment that we would walk for thirty minutes a day, 5 times a week. That kick started not only some major weight loss for us both, but it also brought me energy in a way I never expected. If you're down in the dumps, one of the best ways to blow off steam or just simply re-energize is to exercise.

Whatever it is that fills your tank, make it happen this week. Get moving, get active - force yourself to do something that you enjoy and that will inspire you. It will take some effort at first, but once inspiration hits, you'll have forward momentum that you can build on. Believe me, it's worth the trouble.

** Please note that this article is referring to those "down in the dumps" feelings - NOT clinical depression. If you are experiencing depression or mental health issues, you should seek professional help.

Jill Hart's entrepreneurial career began in her teens when she spent a summer working with her father who ran his own business. When he put her in charge of a Coke machine and allowed her to keep the profits, she saw the benefits of being her own boss. She is the founder of Christian Work at Home Ministries and the co-author of So You Want To Be a Work-at-Home Mom. Jill has articles published in In Touch Magazine, P31 Woman magazine and Focus on the Family's Thriving Family, as well as across the web on sites like DrLaura.com. She speaks to audiences around the country about faith and business topics. Learn more about Jill at JillHart.com and connect with her on "http://www.facebook.com/SpeakerJillHart" "FB Jill Hart" and "http://twitter.com/cwahm."  Permission granted for use on DrLaura.com.