One of my coaching clients, Inga Poslitur, expressed the entrepreneur’s experience so well. “It’s like a roller coaster ride: as you are getting to the top of the hill the train slows down and you really feel gravity. But as soon as you are rolling over, the speed picks up like crazy.”
Of course this pertains to life as well, but Inga and other small business owners feels it most acutely because our two lives are so intertwined.
Before the New Year, that feeling of slowing down and the sense of gravity are all too real. “Will business show up in 2010?” “What’s really important in my life/work?” “How did ’09 match up against ‘o8?” The reality of what we do in our lives comes to the fore.
And then Monday, January 4 arrives, the phone starts ringing again and the roller coaster continues.
A successful fine artist and illustrator, Inga came up with three major goals that will serve as her template throughout the year–to earn an MFA (Master of Fine Arts), to have a one-woman show, and to practice extreme self-care. If offers come that are not aligned with her greater goals, this may not be the year to do them. Social media classes, yes–to help her promote her show. Italian 101, maybe not, unless it is on track towards her advanced degree. Having those set goals, her heart’s desires, makes it easier to choose.
You may not be able to control the roller coaster ride, but you can decide which one to hop aboard.
This is just what I need to get 2010 in gear.
Thanks Jane!!!
Jane I am so glad you posted this. As a graphic designer I am in a time where I don’t know what my goals should be. Happening to be on a high peak on my personal career Roller coaster. Inga certainly came up with the best solution for a goal work on yourself the rest will come along!
@Patti
You can’t lose if you’re sure YOU are taken care of. Everything else will fall into place. If you neglect yourself, what do you have? I’m happy to hear you’re on a high peak personally.