I’ve been self-employed Mum for nearly six months now; I set my own schedule, haven’t need to book time “off” for a chicken pox covered toddler and have been known to write blogs in my pyjamas without raising a second glance. However, this article isn’t about all the amazing things that come with running your own business as a Mum, the sleepless nights or exciting learning curves working my way around technology.
It is the surprising revelation that I miss having a manager. Not anyone in particular (although I’ve been very lucky that way), but the pining for someone to be held accountable to.
I won’t lie, this came as a massive shock!
I am self-motivated but I am missing the buzz of team, of feedback and challenge. This is something that I had briefly considered when leaving my last company, but hadn’t really thought enough about how I would fill the gap.
The answer for me is twofold.
- Find my tribe of creative and inspiring people
- Find someone I trust and respect to be held accountable to.
Luckily, I come from a background of networking and think nothing of walking into a room full of strangers and striking up a conversation. I am building my tribe through online groups as well as investing (time and money) in some local groups of likeminded people that I can bounce ideas off and also publically declare my goals. If it happens to be in a place that serves good coffee, it is a win-win situation!
Nothing beats a catch up over coffee
I had also recently invested in a wonderful coach; someone I admire and aspire to be like (one day when I am a grown up!). As I hope you know, coaching is about getting to your goals quicker with someone that you would on your own. Whilst it can help to overcome negative behaviours and feelings, it is just as impactful to work with someone to get to where you want to be.
I am loving what I am doing with The Balance Collective, but want to start building my grants ASAP. There is only so much I can do on my own, and know that having someone to challenge me and hold me accountable will give me the catalyst to move the business to a place I didn’t know was possible.
So, there is my confession; this coffee loving coach wants coaching!
Would love to hear how you keep yourself challenged and motivated in your job or business!
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Clara Wilcox is a straight talking, practical and experienced coach helping clients navigate the tricky waters of returning to work, career changes and professional development. The Balance Collective is a social enterprise focused on improving the lives of parents, by working together to build inner confidence and promote a healthy work/life balance.
