So here’s the thing…. Whoever said business isn’t personal lied.
There’s a scene in Harlem Nights when Quick (portrayed by Eddie Murphy) says, “This is personal” to Dominique La Rue (portrayed by Jasmine Guy) before homegirl had to go (if you know you know) and I felt that. The statement’s not the pow pow. Jeepers.
Just like you go to your job to get a check to pay your bills, maintain or improve the lifestyle you’re accustomed to, etc., small business owners do as well. You buying apparel from a small boutique not only goes toward the upkeep of the business, payment of employees, but also the owner. I know big businesses really got a lot of us messed up, and there are many in business lacking scruples of any kind. But for the average small business owner, you buying a product or patronizing services goes to household bills and necessities. Regardless of what level the entrepreneur is on, just starting out or well established, business is a part of livelihood.
It’s Personal
When small businesses invest in community, that’s personal. Then you make it to a level of visible success, folks are proud and want to share in that success, and honey, that’s personal.
When you can’t afford your mortgage, groceries, or insurance let alone self-care luxuries because business is slow, oh honey that’s personal. What about when your home life is suffering because of the hours you’re putting in? What about when your social calendar has been empty for months because you’ve been so consumed with building? How is that not personal?
Here’s How You Know
It’s personal when you:
- Sacrifice
- Cry
- Are frustrated and burned out
- Also are broke, broken, and a mess trying to provide for your household
It’s also personal when:
- Someone bites off your ideas and concepts & steal
When you shine, it’s personal.
Implementing Balance
They call it a “work-life balance” as if work is not a part of life. Work, regardless of the kind, should not be your whole life.
The thing is we definitely need balance, but we also have to know what we’re working for and set boundaries for every aspect of life. Whether you’re single or married with kids, you’re working for your livelihood, are you not? Remember that when it’s time to say no. Don’t go around poppin’ folks (murder is still bad guys), but let folks know when it is personal.
If no one has told you today, I love you but God loves you better.
Be blessed,
