As an #Entrepreneur
The pandemic brought out an unprecedented set of responses from small business owners around the world. I remember this time last year, when every founder literally folded up their sleeves to do the work they expected from their team.
How many restauranteurs were in their kitchens washing dishes? How many fashion designers were sewing their own repairs? How many school founders were back in the classroom to cover teachers who were feeling the pressures of the pandemic?
They’ve always known how to do ALL parts of the work, but then they were challenged to do every part of it with greater fidelity and love. And that was crucial in helping them remember what they were willing to do to keep their vision alive.
On my side, one of my realisations was how much I could get out of my comfort zone. I shared with you that I am a very shy person. And yet, during the pandemic, I had to step up and face people.
I had to sign client correspondences with my name, take responsibility for every decision, and be ready to take their comments— good and bad.
It was nerve-wracking, nearly harrowing. It was hard enough to make decisions that affected many; It was even more frightening to know that ultimately, I would be the face people would associate every action with.
From centre closures, to new policies, to being the focus of a community quarantine challenge— I never thought I would have to leave the safety of generic emails, and speak with honesty and courage.
But it IS true what they say— when challenges come, they test how much you value and love something.
I am still here, and a tad bit braver, I suppose. You can even say I’ve come out of my shell a bit more… and now, it’s more likely I won’t be going back in.
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Outfit: @theoutnet
Shoes: @kibo.eco
Photography: @jeffip
Make up: @vanessawmakeup
