Redefining Thriving

I vividly remember the chaotic mornings of my past—rushing out the door with a half-applied face of makeup, shoving hastily prepared food into my mouth (or sometimes skipping breakfast altogether), and yelling at my kids to hurry up so I could drop them off at school before rushing into the office for my first client. The day would begin with a sense of chaos, stress, and an underlying fear of falling short. 

However, my perspective on thriving has evolved dramatically. Today, I embrace a different approach. I’ve learned that if we need just a few extra minutes, it’s not worth shattering the nervous systems of my children or my own in the process. If we’re late, we’re late—and that’s perfectly okay.

Redefining Thriving

Thriving, for me, means prioritizing mental well-being and nurturing relationships over the frantic rush of life. It involves giving myself permission to take a walk every morning, to center my body and mind before diving into my workday. This practice isn’t just about physical health; it’s about emotional resilience and mental clarity. 

By allowing myself that quiet time, I can show up at 100% rather than just going through the motions. I understand the 80/20 rule well—the idea that 20% of effort can yield 80% of results. (I invite you to consider this too.) But by showing up wholeheartedly, I give my all, realizing that true thriving isn’t measured solely by productivity; it’s about quality and awareness in how I live and work.

Lessons for Fellow Female Entrepreneurs

As female entrepreneurs, we often juggle multiple roles, and the pressures can feel overwhelming. Here are a few reflections from my journey that I hope inspire you to explore what thriving might look like for you:

1. Prioritize Self-Care:

   - It’s not indulgent; it’s essential. Taking time for yourself, whether through exercise, meditation, or simply enjoying a quiet cup of coffee, helps recharge your battery. Prioritize this self-care, and you’ll find you have more to give.

2. Reassess Your Definition of Success:

   - Define what success means to you personally and professionally. It’s not just about hitting financial targets or growing your business at all costs. Success might also include having a peaceful home, quality family time, or achieving personal wellness.

3. Embrace Flexibility:

   - Life happens, and sometimes plans need to change. Instead of stressing about being late or needing extra time, be flexible. Allow yourself to breathe through unexpected changes without guilt.

4. Share the Load:

   - Don’t hesitate to reach out for support. Whether through hiring help, collaborating with other entrepreneurs, or leaning on family, sharing responsibilities can alleviate the pressure.

5. Celebrate Small Wins:

   - Acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Each step forward contributes to your overall growth and thriving lifestyle.

6. Invite Reflection:

   - Regularly assess how you feel about your current balance between work and personal life. Are there any adjustments you can make to better align with your definition of thriving?

Your Unique Path to Thriving

I encourage each of you reading this post to take this opportunity to explore what thriving might look like for you. Understand that your journey is unique and that finding your rhythm may take time. The goal isn’t perfection but rather the pursuit of joy, fulfillment, and balance in your life as an entrepreneur.

Let go of the hectic mornings and the pressures that once defined your day. Embrace a new narrative, one where thriving means finding peace amidst the chaos and giving yourself grace. Your journey is important, and thriving is within your reach—redefined by the choices you make and the values you hold dear.

LUV - Gretchen