Me: “This is hard.”
Lisa: “So, does that mean you’re going to do it or not do it?”
My business partner and I had a crazy ritual we would act out with each other when things got a bit too challenging.
When one of us felt “up against it,” we’d tiptoe into the other’s office, stand in front of their desk, and let them know that we were working on something really hard. If it was me, I’d have a tense expression on my face as I waited for her response. 100% of the time, she’d only want the answer to one question: “Does that mean you’re going to do it or not do it?”
I’d roll my eyes. “Yes, I’m going to do it. I just wanted you to know it’s hard.” She’d nod and smile, “So, now I know.”
Then I’d trot back to my office and dive into the trenches.
What I realize now is that Lisa and I intuitively created a supportive way to connect with each other when things got tough. She and I both knew that the work was going to get done and that we were fully committed to our business and to each other. No one needed fixing, a solution, or advice. It was our way of checking in and connecting. And we felt better and empowered to continue our task.
We all know how to do hard.
That’s the easy part.~Margalit
For me and most of my coaching clients, we all know how to do hard. That’s the easy part.
The real challenge is finding support so we don’t drown in stress and anxiety or procrastinate or give up.
Owning your own business can be lonely.
The incredibly talented and ambitious entrepreneurs I coach often believe they have to suck it up and not let anyone know how difficult things are. Act like it’s effortless so the team doesn’t get worried. They don’t give themselves the support they need, especially while they’re going through the tough times.
Whether it’s a coach, mentor, significant other, or special friend, giving yourself the space to check in with another person you respect and trust is key in keeping sane and grounded in this exciting and unpredictable entrepreneurial journey many of us are on.
So, who do you count on when things get tough?