I let a client go as well as a profitable agency partnership and have felt more successful ever since.
It all started with an 11 mile rugged course with 25 crazy obstacles. I am referring to the Tough Mudder…“Probably The Toughest Event on the Planet.” In one day, I did more physically and mentally then I thought possible. I looked my fear of heights in the face and jumped anyway. I crawled, dragged and ran through electrical wires carrying 10,000 volts. I hoisted and threw my body over 10 foot walls. I submerged myself into ice water, and I mean ice cubes floating in it, that literally took my breath away as well as the feeling in my legs. At the end of the event, I felt empowered and strong. I decided I wanted to always feel that way so I decided to make changes in my life.
Here is my reality. I have two full time jobs. I am a full time mom. I volunteer at school and organize all the field trips. I am a gluten free, vegan cooking machine for class snacks. My son once told me my ‘special’ gift was laundry because I do so much of it. I love my kids. They are my favorite and most important job.
I am also a full time online marketing consultant. I run integrated campaigns for companies that are passionate entrepreneurs and companies trying to make a difference. I completely immerse myself in their business. I do not represent a brand unless I am 100% behind their mission and product. I love my job! It is very much part of my identity.
The result of these two full time jobs was one stressed out mom. I took being efficient to its max. I never walked down my hall without a serious intent or at a minimum something in my hands. I had to be this way to even think of getting my daily task list done, which never seemed to happen. I was running my own Tough Mudder every day…pushing myself to the limit. Except instead of feeling empowered and strong, I felt helpless and exhausted.
The Monday after the event, I decided it was time for a change. I was going to do less, breathe more, laugh often and be stronger. It was one of the hardest things I have ever professionally done…letting go of a client. It wasn’t a’bad’ client, just a time consuming one. I felt horrible turning down working during a time when people are looking for jobs. However, the result is I can now control my day…it no longer controls me.
I now have more time to focus on my existing clients. My programs can be more creative and successful. And look I can write more blog posts!
The moral of this story is this. Don’t listen to the many people who will tell you “take every opportunity while you can.” There will be more opportunities after that one. You are good at what you do. There is enough in this world…enough for everything you and your family needs. There will not be another today. Your children will not be this age again. Do what is best for you and as a result your family. You do not have to be Super Mommy! There is no such thing. And if you are on that darn hamster wheel, spinning around at lightning speed…it is time to get off.