Notes from a small business - August ‘24
I know I’m really lucky - I love what I do for a living and it never feels like work. I enjoy helping others and having the freedom to work on my own terms - I'm truly finding my Ikaigi. It’s an ancient Japanese concept that refers to our purpose and what truly motivates us in this life:
Working Parent Challenges
As you probably already know, May was Mental Health If you’re anything like me, then you’ve probably found that the UK school summer holidays have crept up, put you in a headlock and ruffled your hair! Dealing with unpredictable small humans means it’s difficult to ever be fully prepared.
For me, trying to achieve the perfect work-life balance during the school holidays is a bit like brushing my teeth whilst eating a doughnut, and anyone who suggests it's a breeze and that they've found the ultimate balance is likely daft, disillusioned or contorting the truth. I do not believe that any working parent has truly mastered the balance ... if they have I would like to invest in bottling it and selling it, please.
Let’s all stop sugar-coating our social media posts and pretending that life is picture perfect 24/7. Instead, let’s work together to encourage vulnerability and share our struggles, because when we do we can support each other and make these challenging periods more manageable.
What Do Working Parents Need From Employers?
In my recent LinkedIn polls, I focused on working parents. The data shows that 87% of working parents take time off to care for children during school holidays whilst 50% struggle to find affordable and reliable childcare. And although 63% feel their employers are supportive and flexible, 53% want more support for flexibility and 37% desire more remote work opportunities.
Talent retention is crucial and requires flexibility from both sides. By approaching these challenges with respect and good intentions, we can achieve a win-win situation for everyone involved.
The Value of Positive Connection
During the past month, I opened my virtual networking door via Calendly, leading to around 20 conversations with old and new acquaintances which brought joy and growth. Building relationships is really important to me, and I’ll continue to expand my circle of contacts by nurturing existing connections and forming new collaborations.
Finding The Balance
My new journey is all about setting boundaries, compromise, learning, and growth. A special woman opened the door to my spiritual path, leading me to incorporate mindfulness and meditation into my daily routine. This has allowed me to be unapologetically myself and make genuine connections with shared intentions. I won't go into detail about my spirituality here, but if you're interested in discussing this part of my journey, feel free to reach out to me directly.
What’s On The Horizon?
As usual, it’s pretty non-stop for me. During August I’ll be taking some quality time out to spend with my family, which I know will recharge my batteries and spark creativity - it always does! When I’m back, I'll be opening bookings for the next 5 participants to join my online EVOLVE coaching cohort.
What is EVOLVE?
I have designed EVOLVE to equip individuals for future success in all aspects of their lives.The EVOLVE Series Covers:
👺 Imposter Syndrome and confidence building 🎯 Courageous conversations
🤝 Professional networking and collaboration 📞 Communication and connection
😟 Stress management ✨ LinkedIn personal branding
🚧 Overcoming obstacles at work and at home 🧠 Psychological safety
✌️ Conflict prevention and resolution
During six 90-minute weekly sessions, EVOLVE brings together small groups for meaningful discussions in which everyone is not only seen but also heard. These sessions bring so much value, development and joy - not just to those attending, but to me as well!
Wishing you all happiness, health, success, and a wonderful summer!
