The Next Step Forward: Working toward a Dream

07 Nov The Next Step Forward: Working toward a Dream

As the world begins to return to normal after more than a year of on-again, off-again COVID shutdowns, many women are looking to take the next step forward.

For some women, this means taking a more proactive approach to their careers. You may be seeking a change in your hours or your office location, or you may be looking to shift to an entirely different industry. For other women, the change may be a leap to starting their own business.

Whatever the goal, a new opportunity doesn’t spontaneously fall in your lap. Rather, it’s the result of careful planning, networking and old-fashioned hard work.

If you’re struggling to get your new dream off the ground, consider these tips before you make your next step.

• Define your goals. Every woman has a different dream – for her personal life and her working life. What do you want to achieve? What do you want to contribute? When you can identify the end result, break it down into smaller, manageable steps and create a timeline for yourself. Then, hold yourself to that schedule.
• Set your boundaries. After more than a year of working from home – from kitchen tables and the family room couch, from working with kids underfoot or late into the night – it’s time for some boundaries. Work hard. Work really hard – but know when to say no. If you aren’t being paid for it or if it’s beyond the scope of your job, don’t do it. If it won’t further your new business, cut it out. Maintain a laser-like focus so you can achieve your goals and make time for the things that matter.
• Support other women. Network and join women’s business or industry groups. You’ll feel less alone in a community of like-minded women, and you’ll have a chance to support others who are working on something new as well.
• Negotiate for yourself. No one will drop money in your lap. Understand what you are worth, and stand up for that. If you are working for someone else, ask for the raise or the promotion. If you have your own business, don’t be afraid to charge premium rates. Have the confidence and knowledge to ask for what you’re worth.
• Make smart financial decisions. If you don’t have a background in business, this can be challenging. You may need to learn how to keep a budget, finance loans, market your business or raise capital. Make sure you have an advisor who can help if you don’t already know how this works. Or take a business class and do it yourself.
• Secure appropriate protections. Since you never know what life will throw your way – accident, illness, market meltdown – be sure to purchase appropriate business and personal insurance policies to protect you in case something doesn’t go the way it should. This may include long-term disability, critical illness and life insurance on the personal side. If you’re starting a business, consider appropriate options there too.

To learn more about protecting your business, contact us.

Joel Rose

With over 35 years of experience, Joel Rose helps families – and their businesses – to prepare for the future. He offers guidance and support to help his clients create estate plans and succession plans that meet the needs of the whole family. Through his extensive professional and personal experience, Joel is known for his compassion and his ability to find a creative solution to meet each family’s needs.