One of my jobs as a coach is to help clients figure out what's not working in their business or career so they can be more successful and happy.
I'm constantly questioning anything that makes work more difficult…because I can't stand systems or habits that don't make sense and don't support a woman's ability to thrive.
I get some resistance from clients when I question, hearing things like "no one does it that way", "that’s not the industry standard" or "my clients/team/boss will never stand for that".
And while I don’t argue, I’m clear that following the crowd blindly can both stunt your professional growth and have a negative impact on your well-being.
So here are three things to help make your work fit YOU first.
Love where you work
Unlike many who made the transition during the pandemic, I’ve always worked from home as I’ve never wanted (or needed) the overhead of regular office space.
When I first moved to L.A. and started coaching clients locally, I was happy because I really enjoy connecting in person. But over time, meeting in various locations made it hard to balance my schedule.
So I started doing meetings in one spot exclusively - a gorgeous hotel lobby overlooking the beach in Santa Monica - and offered clients the chance to do one "live" session per month with alternate sessions held virtually.
While you might love working from home, from the office or a hybrid of the two, you might also enjoy being in a totally different (indoor or outdoor) setting. If a hotel lobby or room doesn’t feel right, consider a nice co-working space, a lovely coffee shop (both of which I’ve used before) or a meeting room that suits your needs.
No matter what, adapting your environment so it feels good will make you happier and your work better.
Find your virtual blend
When I was first introduced to the concept of virtual coaching almost 18 years ago, I liked the idea but never thought I’d do it myself.
Coming from a psychotherapy background, I assumed that I couldn’t connect with clients or sense their energy if we weren’t in the same space. Not only do I love coaching virtually but I’ve created deep relationships with clients that I’ve never met (or seen on screen). Years ago, before it was common, I even moved my entire business from Chicago to Los Angeles without losing one client or one penny of income.
As many now know, working virtually cuts down on commute time, expands your market and gives you the chance to operate from anywhere. Both before and during the pandemic, I helped financial planners, attorneys, fitness pros, designers and more transition their business to a virtual model to open up their market and consolidate their time.
Now companies too are finally seeing that flexible work options can increase productivity, revenue and retention as employees benefit from this whole new way to work. So take advantage of the fact that you have more choice than ever before to find the right virtual/live mix for you.
Balance your schedule
Taking control of your schedule is so important when it comes to managing overwhelm and being your professional best.
Everyone’s different when it comes to their ideal schedule and, depending on your situation, you may have more or less control over your time. But having coached thousands of high-level, extra busy women - many who’ve felt like slaves to their schedules - I can tell you that anyone can tweak their time for the better.
Whether it’s setting clear office hours, using your vacation/wellness days or carving out focused time for specific activities, adjusting your calendar can be life (and work) changing. I’ve helped clients negotiate four-day weeks, flexible schedules and clear boundaries that honor both their professional and personal lives. For me, it’s no nights, weekends or Wednesdays…unless I feel like it, of course ;).
Remember that you are the core of your business and career and when the how, where and when you work FIT, the stage is set for you to excel. So think about and shift what you need to make things work for you…and watch what happens to your success.
Want my help with your business or career?
If you’re looking to shift your current job or business so you can stop surviving and start thriving, I’m here to help. Sign up for a Free Meet & Greet Coaching Consultation and we’ll discuss how you can uplevel your work and life now.