In the spirit of Mother’s Day this weekend, I want to take this opportunity to share a little bit about my mom. If it weren’t for her, not only would I not be where I am today, but my business wouldn’t be the success that it is.
My mom is a newspaper editor, appreciates a quick turn of phrase, and isn’t afraid to stick her neck out when the situation calls for a rational voice among a crowd of foolishness. She has little patience for hypocrisy, close-mindedness, boorishness and, in some cases, Republicans. She’s quick to giggle at life’s little ironies, roll her eyes when my Dad proudly serves up one of his infamous kitchen concoctions, and still bristles if my sister or I let a low-grade cuss word slip out.
My mom is a quiet, powerful force behind how I run my business. No, she doesn’t do the books, coordinate marketing initiatives, or partake in my strategic planning sessions. Her role began long, long before I launched Rescue Desk and includes the lessons she taught me that I still carry with me today.
Life is a great equalizer
This was a big one growing up with a kid sister. Jealousy would rage when the other got a new outfit, had a bedroom redecorated, or otherwise got the bulk of the attention. But, every time there was a complaint that one of us got something the other didn’t, she told us to be patient and promised that everything equals out in the end. Looking back at the things my sister and I did or received individually, she was right.
Today, there are days when I want to bang my head against the wall, convinced that life is simply out to get me. But, then I remember this little nugget and how many times I’ve learned that life does, in fact, equal out. So, I resolve to ride whatever it is out because, inevitably, things will turn my way.
Sometimes you need to spend money to make money
Our dinner table was politically divided — my mom the liberal democrat, my dad the conservative republican. I remember once trying to explain the difference to my 8-year-old sister. I assumed I was wise beyond my years at 11, and explained it this way: “Would you rather go shopping with Mom or with Dad?” We knew shopping with Mom meant spending a little more on “great quality” at the department store, and shopping with Dad meant spending less on “good enough” at the local discount store.
Don’t get me wrong, there’s a place for both financial perspectives when running a business. Heck, bootstrapping is half the fun — it’s like a scavenger hunt for creative ideas. But, there are times when it’s OK to spend a little extra for quality because it will pay off down the road.
It’s OK to walk away
I had my share of heartbreak as a youngin’. Boyfriends broke with me, girlfriends fought with me, teachers were mean to me… When I was down , my mom would temporarily sympathize with my pre-teen wails of angst, then say, “Let’s go check out the sale at (insert any store).” Sometimes we’d walk out of the store empty handed, sometimes with some little trinket. But, the point wasn’t the shopping. It was simply walking away; whatever problem was plaguing me always seemed a little less severe.
Even today, when I’m frustrated with a curve ball life throws my way, I take myself to my favorite discount store and just wander and forget about whatever is ailing me. Walking away almost always provides the perspective I need to move forward.
Work hard, but don’t forget to appreciate the little things
My mom works hard, hard, hard. She’s responsible for a zillion processes and is the face of all the publications under her charge. She works long hours, has high standards, and doesn’t hesitate to go above and beyond.
But, she also doesn’t hesitate to relax when given the chance, she stops to appreciate and laugh at life’s weirdness, enjoys stretching her creative wings, and shares her wisdom with those who look up to her. Finding balance between the responsibilities that come with leadership and taking time to recharge and re-energize isn’t always easy. But, watching her do so with grace and kindness has taught me to appreciate life beyond the countless hours I put in building my business.
These are just a (very!) few of the countless things my mom has taught me — and continues to teach me. Because of her, I’m able to run my business with love, dedication and commitment to excellence … with, of course, a hefty dose of laughter, creativity and few pairs of great, high-quality shoes.
Now it’s your turn! What have you learned about business from YOUR mom?
