Running a business is (sorta) like raising kids
April 30, 2009
I’ve got both, so I guess it makes me a subject matter expert.
1) There will be times, often quite regularly, that a business will keep you up at night and/or wake you early in the morning with thoughts of things left undone or general stress and anxiety. The difference is with a business, you can probably force yourself to fall back asleep. With a wailing baby in your arms, it’s their choice to submit, not yours.
2) Just when you think you have a business skill mastered (e.g. sales, project management, accounting) something new will come along and flip you on your head. Anyone who is a parent knows this is a harsh truth; your child is perfectly safe/content on a tricycle, but now, suddenly, they want to ride a two-wheeler.
3) Even in the happiest, most joyful moments (e.g. signing a big contract, hiring the first employee, moving into your own office) it’s only a matter of time until you’re back down in the dumps again, frustrated, scared and confused. Kids have a knack of doing this to you on a regular basis; curious, risky little humans that they are.
4) You can never really get ahead in business: there’s always more bills to pay, work left unfinished or to-do list items that await. Same with kids: there’s always laundry to do, books to read, bedtime to make, meals to prepare or lessons and parties to attend.
5) If you don’t keep on top of managing your business image through careful marketing and communications, somebody else will do it for you. In the case of kids, if you aren’t careful about what they say or what they learn, somebody else will take on the task without you being aware; that is until they surprise you at the dinner table with some choice new words or phrases.
Running a business and raising kids are some of the most challenging and rewarding experiences a person can thrust upon themselves. That said, I’d argue raising kids is more rewarding in the long-run; a business can’t draw wonderful pictures or say they love you when you need it most.
Writing your own paycheque is great, but honest “wrap every inch of their little arms around you” hugs are much, much better.
Comments
OMG, that post made me laugh. How true it is and a great analogy. Have to agree that kids are more rewarding.
benry on April 30, 2009
Well done, Son.
It is so nice to see you still have the wonderful gift with words. We have shared this blog with many of our friends. We are so proud of all you have accomplished and how you have succeeded in life.
The greatest gift is the gift of children, and your father and I have that in you and Sarah…
We love you. Keep up the good work!
Love Mom
Eve Harries on May 02, 2009
Aw shucks, Mom.
