The Reality of Entrepreneurship for Dads
Being a dad is the greatest full-time job any man can have.
With the economy and uncertainty in our world, there are a lot of dads who are looking to take the path of entrepreneurship. Many are doing so to add extra income streams or to break away from the 9-5 grind and pave their own path. Regardless of the reason, almost everyone who starts a business has to go through the early stages which will require sacrifice of family time.
The reason why I keep starting businesses is because I enjoy the early stages where money and success are still uncertain. I also went through many years where I needed to sacrifice valuable time with my family. I'm now in a place where that amount of sacrifice is no longer required.
Navigating this family dynamic has required a lot of trial and error. I want to share with you the main strategies I've adopted that have helped me and my spouse work together while I have built my businesses.???
Partnership with Your Spouse
This is of the utmost importance. Starting a business requires time and energy, both of which can affect family dynamics. As a dad and an entrepreneur, having a strong partnership with your spouse becomes even more crucial. Open communication, shared goals, and mutual understanding of the sacrifices that come with entrepreneurship set the foundation for balancing business and family life.
For example, your spouse may need to be okay with fully taking over the dinner and bedtime routine most nights of the week while you're on calls or away on business. This needs to be clearly communicated and mutually agreed on.
Include Your Kids in Your 'Why'
Involving your children in your entrepreneurial journey is an excellent way to help them understand your commitments and the reason behind your occasional absence. Explain your dreams, show them your passion, and let them see your hard work and dedication. Your entrepreneurial journey could inspire them and create their own spirit of ambition and resilience.
At the end of the day, you're still their hero. Make sure they know how much you love them by being fully present during the moments you have with them.
Sacrifice Time Now for More Time Later
Entrepreneurship often requires sacrificing family time in the short-term for long-term gains. Yes, you might miss some family dinners or bedtime stories now, but remember that you're working toward a future where you have more flexibility and control over your time. This is the current reality that I have created for myself and my family. It's a tough trade-off, but one that can reap big rewards in the end.
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Overcoming FOMO as a Father
It's normal to feel like you're missing out on precious moments with your family when you're buried in your work. But remember, entrepreneurship is not about missing out, but about creating opportunities. Embrace the journey, with its ups and downs. Keep in mind that you're building a legacy for your children.
Quality Time Over Quantity
As mentioned earlier, having less time with your family does not mean the quality of your connection has to suffer. It's about making the most of the time you do have. Be fully present in the moments you can share - from a quick game of catch to a bedtime story. It's these moments of connection that your children will remember, not the quantity of time spent.
I had a great conversation with Larry Hanger from The Dad Edge a few months ago about being a more present dad. Listen to the full conversation here.
Struggling Financially is a Learning Opportunity
Financial hardships are often part and parcel of the entrepreneurial journey. But there's value in letting your kids see you and your spouse experience and overcome these struggles. It teaches them valuable lessons about resilience, determination, and the realities of life and money. You're not just building a business, you're modeling qualities that will prepare your children for their own life journeys.
Keep Going
As a dad and an entrepreneur, it is possible to navigate the early stages of starting your business while still being the dad your kids deserve. If you're in the thick of it right now, know that I've been there. Every successful entrepreneur has.
Keep going.
You got this!
Italian Language Instructor - Reiki Master/ Teacher - Mental Trainer ?? I help Busy Professionals 2: ?????????? ???????????? ??????????????????, ???????? ????????????????♂? & ???? ??????????????????????.
1 个月Very inspiring, Allan ! I like the simplicity and applicability of your suggestions. I share your view on the matter. In today's society fathers are much more involved in their family dynamics and want it to be so while also growing their business. Especially solo-preneurs who are dads often have to sacrifice a lot and it can be very frustrating sometimes. By the way I would add that "sacrifice" is not a 4 letter word if you translate it with "investment". Nothing comes out without some work involved... Yet, with the right strategies and tools to keep stress levels under control and take care of your needs you can come to terms with the inevitable difficult situations in a very effective way and finally thrive both in family and in business.
I Help Pest Control and Solar Companies Get More Customers With Proven Methods.
9 个月I have never met you but I have heard many great things about you Allan! Keep doing your thing my man!
Integrations Support Analyst
9 个月Well said, Allan. Thank you for your helpful and underrated content.
Business Developement Manager at Control Techniques
10 个月Well said Allan, thank you
Director - New Business, Asia
10 个月Great sharing, Allan! Being both an entrepreneur and a father brings its own set of unique challenges. Juggling the responsibilities of family life with the demands of running a business requires adept time management and the ability to prioritise effectively. Entrepreneurs often deal with irregular work hours, which can interfere with dedicated family time, leading to stress or a sense of guilt when either side is perceived as being shortchanged. The financial unpredictability associated with entrepreneurship also adds stress, impacting family stability and security based on the business's performance. However, many fathers in entrepreneurship appreciate the flexibility it offers and the chance to demonstrate the values of perseverance and hard work to their children.