Guest Post by Cathy Alessandra, Founder of the National Association of Entrepreneur Moms
Are you ready to exit overwhelm? I know I am! I have been so busy with two companies, mergers and my kids, that I have been totally overwhelmed. And I know many of you are feeling the same.
Life is often overwhelming when you are a mompreneur and we are often fighting “SuperMom Fatigue”. Our multiple roles as an entrepreneur, mom, caretaker, philanthropist, partner, friend, taxi driver, cook, maid and volunteer are all screaming for our attention.
- The first step in exiting overwhelm is to set boundaries. As a mompreneur, especially if you are a home-based mompreneur, it can be very difficult. When I began my first company and worked from home, I didn’t really act as if I had a business—that I was the CEO of my company. I was available when anyone called—to volunteer on the playground, have lunch with a friend or help plan the fundraiser. I needed to set the same boundaries as a mom who worked outside the home—office hours, days available, not answering the home phone line whenever it rang—participating in what I wanted to, when I wanted to, and only making exceptions when I wanted to.
- The second step is to consider commitments versus obligations and choose them wisely. Learning to say no to some things allows you to say yes to things you feel passionate about. In the past, I have had a difficult time saying no. But I am spending more time making those decisions— contemplating my commitments and obligations. I commit to things I feel passionate about, things I enjoy doing and feel good, things I can share with my kids. I am learning to say no to the obligatory commitments—the ones that I am doing for someone else, that I am pressured into and that don’t feel right.
- The third step is to find your rhythm. I love the song “Life is a Highway” by Rascal Flats. Life is a highway – and I am in the drivers seat and living it by making choices – and if you are going the same direction with me – then hop on and hold on – because it is exciting. But if it is going to cause me total overwhelm, then I am taking the next exit and getting off the highway! When you remove the things that cause the overwhelm and discord, you can hear the harmony in the distance.
Being in overwhelm serves no one – and certainly not you! In fact, I believe it does more harm then good – to your relationships, your stress level, your body and your mind. Take a step back for a moment and see where you can exit. I challenge you to set some boundaries. Think about your commitments versus obligations. Learn to say no so you are ready for your YES opportunities!
Cathy Alessandra is President and Founder of the National Association of Entrepreneur Moms (NAOEM), an association dedicated to empowering mompreneurs to consciously create a balanced life. To receive Cathy’s FREE Mompreneur Success Kit, click here.
