I was working on my ezine today, and got to thinking… In my “personal note” section I often talk about, well, my personal life. My thoughts, my kids (okay, a lot about my kids), my husband, my vacations, or whatever comes to mind. I often debate whether it’s okay to share these things. After all – this is business, not a mommy blog, right? I decided, after much debate, that it is okay to share personal stories because of these reasons:
- I personally enjoy getting to know the “human side” of the people I work with or admire – especially since a lot of my connections are made online. I feel that there is a lack of human connection these days, and it’s just nice to know that there are…real people out there. (NOTE: there is a fine line between “ooooh, look at that cute puppy he bought” and “OMG, why did he tell us about the hairy wart on his toe?” TMI people – know where that line is, and DO NOT APPROACH!)
- Most of the people I am connected to are solopreneurs. They are business owners, founders, and CEOs that are going it alone. More than I probably know are parenting kids. I hope that some of what I share inspires you on some level. For us business-owner-mom hybrids, it’s important to know that there are others out there doing the same thing. More importantly, it’s important to find out HOW they are doing it. I love hearing the creative ways that people find time to create great memories with their families. Life is important. Our kids, our families, and the things we do, are all important. For many of us, our businesses provide a way for us to do these things that we want to do, and it’s important to know how to balance it all.
That’s pretty much it. My short and sweet philosophy.
You, on your own entrepreneurial journey have to decide if it’s okay for you and your “peeps”. For me, you know the deal.
What do you think?
I love you being you and now that I know your reasoning, I love it even more. As a business woman from another generation (in full disclosure to readers, I am your mother) I sometimes wonder if you are sharing too much. I know I enjoy the family anecdotes, but is this a way to build a business I ask myself. Well, I once again have learned a thing or two from my children. Being yourself is the best approach to life. Having your own at-home business does limit the camaraderie around the water cooler as we used to say. I think you have found the perfect solution. Your style is light and fun and at the same time, gets the job done. Your readers know you as a successful business person and a down-to-earth wife and mother. It’s a friendship with business acquaintances, even to those who may never have the pleasure of meeting you in person. Some of my best friends in life were met through business. I think your philosophy affords that option in today’s more prevalent businesses without walls. Good for you for finding a way to do that!
Wow your mom made so many good points it is a little intimidating to follow her. So, here goes. I thoroughly enjoy the balance of business and personal you include in your “news.” And I believe it not only gives us a chance to meet/know/learn more about you it also gives all of us permission to share more about ourselves. And one of the best benefits of you writing about personal and business is I get to enjoy twice as much of your knowledge and humor.