Collaborative post.
After the difficult year we’ve all had, 2021 has the potential to be a fresh start and an opportunity to chase our dreams. But for parents looking to further their career in business, whether starting out on their own or taking a current venture to the next level, there are just so many obstacles in the way. The hectic nature of everyday life often leaves us feeling burnt out and it’s tempting to shelve your own goals for a hypothetical future.
But now is the time to seize the day, and whatever you’re looking to achieve, these three tips for enterprising parents should help you balance your ambitions with the rest of your busy life.
- Dedicate time
This is without a doubt the most difficult piece of advice on the list, but it is the most necessary. Personal and professional development are time-consuming, and it’s important to set aside time not only to work on yourself, but to wind down too.
Be patient – everything won’t fall into place over night, even with the best of intentions. But don’t be afraid to experiment with your schedule and cut back on unnecessary commitments to find the right balance for you.
Do a little research of your own – investigate the habits of successful CEOs, particularly those with families, to find out how you can juggle your domestic life and professional goals.
- Get to know people!
Networking is an essential part of business. It can lead to new opportunities and collaborations, as well as friendships that can support you on your journey.
Business networking hubs like Arise Innovation are a great source of expertise that can guide you on your journey, and help with the practical stuff too – their virtual office assistance offers access to creative working spaces and can even help with handling mail, a major administrative bonus.
Their networking events, including seminars and workshops can also provide you with much needed inspiration and lead you to personal connection which can be called upon during hard times.
This leads us to our next point…
- Ask for help
Sometimes, reaching out for help is one of the hardest things to do, especially as a parent. Often, we feel as though we should be able to work things out on our own.
Throw career ambitions into the mix, and the need to control everything around us can be overwhelming. But it’s not sustainable, and will leave you feeling burnt out and exhausted, sapping your creative inspiration and ultimately leaving you worse off.
For small business owners, it’s important to understand that training your staff is a long-term investment that will allow you to relinquish at least some control in your work. Don’t be afraid to seek assistance in your home life either, whether that’s from friends or family.
The main thing to remember is that asking for help is not evidence of incompetence – on the contrary, it takes a tough, secure and savvy individual to know when there is too much on their plate.
We hope these three tips help you to realise your potential and fulfil your dreams!