How are you investing in yourself or your company financially, educationally, with self-care, in the realm of retirement, etc.? Please share if you have seen any successful results from these investments.
Lori Hilson Cioromski
President
Essential Water Technologies
As professional working women, we devote our life to our spouse, to our family and to our business having little time left for ourselves. Being a CEO, mom and stepmom of a blended family of six children, a wife, sister, daughter and friend I am often asked, “How do you balance your career and family life?”
First, there is no balance between work, family and life! I find that most women leaders, including myself, put themselves last and don’t really take time for themselves because we are always doing for others. I strive to be the best that I can by being present for my family, career and most importantly myself, but it is not always easy.
Here are some tips I live by:
- Give yourself permission; do something for yourself each day even if it’s only 10 minutes.
- It’s OK to say no; do what’s right and aligned with you and your heart.
- Protect dinnertime; make semi-homemade meals, allow time for family discussion.
- Hire outside help; outsource where possible.
- Make your husband, children and friends your priority.
- Be present where you are; find joy.
What are the small things you can do to take care of yourself? How can you find time for yourself each day? Set an appointment for this time in your calendar and protect it! We all know that our priorities shift depending on the situation, and this is to be expected. Is there a way to catch yourself before getting too far off balanced in career or family? Is there a code word you can come up with to help keep you on track, so you do not get burned out in one area or another?
Remember, there is no such thing as work life balance but if you make yourself a priority, you will do a better job at work, at home and be happier without losing yourself. Unleashing harmony, finding joy in each day, giving yourself the freedom to make the choices that are right for you is the pathway to having it all without losing yourself! Now is the time to invest in YOU!
Tanessa Lee
Owner
Eaze & Comfort Relocations Services LLC
As the owner of Eaze & Comfort Relocation Services LLC, I am committed to investing in myself and the growth of my company in several ways. Financially, I allocate funds for expanding our service offerings and enhancing our technology and digital presence to reach a wider audience.
Educationally, I regularly attend industry conferences and workshops and participate in many cohorts to stay updated on the latest trends and technologies in the business world. This knowledge is imperative for us to offer more efficient solutions and improve customer satisfaction.
For self-care, I maintain a healthy work-life balance by engaging in activities like exercising and meditation, which help me manage stress and remain focused. In terms of retirement planning, I contribute to a retirement savings plan, ensuring financial security for the future. These strategic investments in myself and my business have not only resulted in personal growth but have also contributed to Eaze & Comfort’s continued success and resilience in a competitive market.
Elysia Sepich
Owner
10x Executive Solutions
Investing in your company can take many different forms beyond just putting money into it. Like many entrepreneurs, I started 10x Executive Solutions to spend more time with family and friends, gain financial stability and be my own boss. However, the beginning stages are more challenging.
Time and effort are the most significant investments in starting a business. As a business owner, it becomes too easy to submerse yourself in the business and work long hours. I try to be diligent about keeping a regular schedule, so I am not working 15-hour days. I also like to start my day with a two to three mile walk to clear my head and reflect on the day’s tasks. Doing this helps me invest in myself. Focusing on yourself will help you stay energized and prepared for anything that comes your way.
Investing in your own skills and knowledge about your industry can directly benefit your business. This can come with networking opportunities. Building relationships will open doors for your business and connect you with a supportive community. I became involved in multiple organizations and learned so much from all the people I connected with. It’s these connections that make the journey of entrepreneurship less lonely and more rewarding.
Surrounding yourself with people who inspire you, give guidance and encourage you will help build confidence in yourself. Believing and setting realistic goals and meeting those milestones will keep you focused and determined to succeed. It’s these small victories that pave the way for the bigger ones.