When we think of innovation, we tend to think of entrepreneurs. Much societal and cultural change has been shaped not by politicians, but by entrepreneurs. From Henry Ford and the car to the sharing economy pioneered by Airbnb and Uber, entrepreneurs have boldly re-envisioned and reshaped the way our society operates.
The most accessed resource I have ever created–in both downloadable and podcast format–is called the 7 Tips for Calm. I created it in the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. I remember being in my kitchen, shortly after the lockdowns began, observing how calm I felt in the midst of this “once in a lifetime” event. And then I thought “OH! I KNOW HOW TO DO THIS.”
Women are superheroes. Period. From being caregivers to leaders to everything-in-betweeners, there is so much women do that goes unnoticed and unappreciated. This lack of appreciation became even more pronounced during the pandemic when women disproportionately were expected to become teachers, nurses, and career sacrificers to take care of their families.
Rules have reasons, as I often tell my kids. And just because you don’t like them doesn’t mean you don’t have to follow them. They’re designed to keep us safe, to account for others that exist around us, and to maintain societal expectations. There are processes to challenge and possibly change them. But they are what they are.
We all know them: the people who spend a lot of time and energy trying to tell you how much they know. Self-declared experts with the typical communication style that leads with “I’m so awesome. Have I told you how awesome I am?” Translation: “I know everything and I’ve done it all.”
As someone trying to run a business with ADHD – and who worked as an outdoor guide for a decade before stepping into an entrepreneurship role – making the time every day to step away from my desk and tend to my flower and herb garden has become a ritual to keep me balanced.
I meet with entrepreneurs on a daily basis. From sales to product development, finance to information systems, entrepreneurs (especially in the early stages) are required to understand and perform every aspect of running a business. While the conversations and trainings I have with these burgeoning business owners typically cover their business models, funding sources, and marketing strategies - one thing I try to stress is the importance rest plays in growing a business.
I spend a lot of time around people currently running businesses, and planning to start new businesses. These self-proclaimed “entrepreneurs” are often focused on the “hack” that will make them successful.
