When I was 22, I had a recurring fantasy.
That fantasy was NOT that I’d wind up pregnant and barefoot in a field…though apparently I managed that anyway. : )
No, like any hot-blooded, fresh-faced, newly minted university graduate, I fantasized about my career.
Specifically, I longed for the guts and marketable skills to start my own business.
I luxuriated in the idea that I could run my days on my own schedule, sell services that felt easy to execute, and “live my purpose” or “fulfill my destiny” (whatever that actually meant).
But deep down inside, I had another reason for my entrepreneurial ambitions…
One that was so practical and apparently boring I hesitated to tell anyone.
I wanted to be able to work entirely on my own terms once I had a baby.
At age 22, I was lightyears away from actually wanting to get pregnant. I had no interest in getting married and no partner to whom I’d officially and permanently hitched my wagon. I just knew that one day, I’d want to have children—and entrepreneur life felt like the obvious choice to actually enjoy the experience.
See, I’d been raised by a single, self-employed mom who filled my childhood with consistent support and perennial presence. I saw career independence and motherhood as mutually achievable dreams–if only I had the courage to create them.
Over the years, I’ve been tested, challenged, and pushed beyond my limits in my pursuit of the business-building dream. I’ve refused to back down or shy away from the fear and doubts that have plagued me because I was SO committed to making it real.
Maybe you can relate?
Now here we are. I’m actually pregnant (38 weeks, in case you’re wondering), having spent nearly a decade swimming in entrepreneurial waters.
I’m so proud of myself for not quitting on the dream that burned bright in my heart long before it appeared remotely possible.
During my maternity leave, I’ll be out of the office but you’ll hear from me once a month via newsletters.
I’ve got some really exciting yet practical content queued up to support you on your leadership journey.
If you’d like to discuss working together when I’m back in the office and get first dibs on my calendar, click here to join the waitlist.
For now, let’s turn it back to you.
Why did YOU start or acquire your business? What led you to take on your current leadership role?
Think back, if you can, to the moment you said yes to pursuing this chapter of your career. How did you feel then? What were your hopes and dreams? What inspired the flame of “yes” in your heart?
I invite you to take a moment right now and acknowledge just how far you’ve come.
Reflect on the courageous decisions you’ve made, the distance and growth edges you’ve crossed, and all the small and major wins that have shaped your journey along the way. Chances are, you’ve already achieved a number of your getting-started goals.
Whether or not you’ve fully realized the dream that initially launched your journey, take some time today to celebrate all that you’ve accomplished. Identify one win that makes your heart glow and share it with someone you love.
Pop the champagne, high-five your loved ones, and remind yourself just how awesome you are.
Photo Credit: Carrie Coleman Photography
