The job title of mompreneur comes with lots of exciting benefits, but there is also another layer–past the 24/7 grind and all the social media filters–that people rarely see. This holds true really for any working mom or dad who’s out there chasing a dream and trying to be the best example they can be for their kids. The truth is that you can never really have it all; you can have a lot, but having everything is in all honesty not an option.
“The truth is that you can never really have it all; you can have a lot, but having everything is in all honesty not an option.”
There have been many nights that I don’t get to put my children to bed. No bath time, story, or goodnight kiss. Granted, there are plenty of nights that I do get to watch my kiddos fall asleep as I’m holding them, and those are truly a gift from God. But Economics 101 is a very real and daily practice when it comes to work (and ultimately, life in general) and this is because of a little idea called opportunity cost. Every time you say yes to something, you are saying no to something else. Despite the desire to have your cake and eat it too, you have to get good at deciding which is the greater use of your time, energy, and resources in a specific moment.
When I agreed to Bible study every Wednesday at 7pm I knew that I was giving up bedtime which happens at 7:30pm. As much as I love this bonding time, I know how much of a better mom I am when I’m filled up with Jesus. In an effort to invest in an important relationship in my life–so that I can better invest in relationships with my family–I made the decision a long time ago to miss bedtime on Wednesday nights for time in the Word.
The same decision process has to happen during key times of work for my business. One example that always comes to mind is the NFL Combine. Given that this event is only in town once a year, and the coaches and agents have limited time to meet based on the league’s itinerary, I have to make this a priority. I know that it’s easy to see social media and think that it’s cool to run around the city meeting with NFL players, sports agents, and major brands–and don’t get me wrong, it is one of the more fun parts of the job. But like I said, there’s also always another layer past the surface, and in this case it’s an area of being a mom that I miss out on.
The moral of this story is that you have to do what sets your heart on fire so that you can show up as your best self for those who matter most to you. Just be sure that when you do say “yes” to one thing, you’re aware of what you’re inadvertently saying “no” to… and always remember that you have a choice.
With Love,
– LW
LIFE WITH LW 