A Mom Entrepreneur's thoughts on: #1 of 53 things to keep in mind if you want to become a better entrepreneur

For several blogs going forward, I'm going to share with you my thoughts on a great blog post: "53 things to keep in mind if you want to become a better entrepreneur." by Neil Patel. His blog Quick Sprout is a must read. The original list is here: http://www.quicksprout.com/2009/08/07/51-ways-to-become-a-better-entrepreneur/


Today: Rule #1 - It's a doozy so I made this entry all about number one.

1. Don't let your emotions cloud your decisions.


This is one of the funniest things I've seen! Women and moms especially are notorious when it comes to emotions. HELLO??? Can anyone say hormones!!! I think women are at a disadvantage when it comes to keeping our emotions in check, its part of our nature. I wouldn't want to do without them, though, because it's what makes me a woman and a mom. We need to be savvy so we can use them to our advantage.

First guilt is so prominent with mom entrepreneurs! We feel guilty when we are busy working because we should be with our kids. We feel guilty when we are with our kids because we should be working! It's a no win situation...or is it? Perhaps we are better at setting boundaries when it comes to working too much.

Anger is another prominent emotion. Depression is very common and for women we display our depression with the inability to control anger. If you can't control your anger, get help.

I think what Neil meant when he wrote that rule was that we need to think with our heads and don't make rash decisions. What you want and what you need are two different things sometimes. As mom entrepreneurs, we really need to be cognizant of "the state of rationalization." I know that sometimes I don't make the right decision because I "just want something." Later, I might regret it but, I won't beat myself up over it. Learn and move on.

Don't just do things because you think it'd be the nice thing to do or it's cool or it seems fun - make sure it makes sense for your business, your family, your friends or yourself! Do the research and weigh the costs. Don't be afraid to ask questions and don't be too proud.

PS - Regina Bonolo is my coach.  I mentioned her on my Time Out video this week.  Here is her website: http://aspirehigher.biz/