Women Get Sh-T Done. Here's Why…

Back in the day, a man could leave for work in freshly laundered shirts, a pre-packed lunch, kiss the little misses goodbye and spend 10 to 12 hours focused solely on work interspersed with water cooler chats about the latest game, new cars, and golf swings. No calls from the school nurse, a parent that fell, contractors waiting to be let in, or a child that left their special project at home.?

As a woman today, what could you do with 10 hours? Ok, let’s say 8; well, let’s be real, what could you do with 2 hours of uninterrupted work? For most women, that is not realistic, nor is it what makes us feel fulfilled.

Our work is just one aspect of life that fills us with purpose and fulfillment. As women, we must build a business that serves and supports the life we want, allowing us the time to focus on other priorities and feel good about ourselves in all our roles and responsibilities. This is what gives us power.?

As a new advisor for Smith Barney and a single Mom with three young kids at home, my life had to be flexible. I only had so many hours to grow my business, no time for fluff or unnecessary activities. In ways, I was jealous of my coworker's time advantage; their life seemed so leisurely. On the other hand, I would fly into the office early, accomplish what was essential and fly out at the end of the day (or school day) with a slew of responsibilities ahead of me.??

But for some reason, I loved it. My priorities were aligned, and against the odds, and to the surprise of my co-workers, I surpassed everyone's expectations as my business grew. I later understood that balancing my priorities and staying focused not just on work but all things truly important to me was my superpower. This was never more evident than in my one free week a year.?

One week a year, my kids went away to spend time with their father, and I was free. For one week, I could accomplish whatever I wanted with few interruptions. What I learned during that one week a year was mind-blowing. I accomplished less in 10-12 hours than in 6-7 hours. Knowing I had the extra time caused me to procrastinate, socialize, and waste what I usually considered precious time. Having more time was not the ticket. Having less time to worry about what others were doing was a diamond in disguise.?

When my kids returned home, I relished the structure and the demands on my time, which forced me to be more efficient and more intentional with how I spent my time, accomplishing more in all aspects of my life. As working moms, our lives may be unconventional or perhaps a refreshing change based on the norm but fueled by a purpose, we get shit done.?

Call me an over-achiever all day long if it means my life is full, my work is meaningful, and I feel good about all the priorities that are important to me.?

Done. Now You Know.

As a female advisor, amazing things happen when you build your business, process, and marketing strategy around your strengths as a woman. Download our free guidebook to Define Your Purpose and Passion as a Financial Advisor . Your passion and enthusiasm for what you do are immediately rekindled. You will begin to see that what you dreamed you could accomplish, is right there at your fingertips.