In My Soft Life CEO Era

Hi there!

Last night I posted a video on Instagram where I shared that I’m launching a new business. (Yay!) I didn’t share exactly what that business is yet (she’s still in the incubation stage), but I did share that I’ve been giving a lot of thought to — and journaling about — how it feels different this time as opposed to when I launched my previous business in 2012.

First, the obvious: That was over a decade ago and I was younger, had far less experience and knowledge about entrepreneurship, and, at that time, I was still a full-time employee. Today, I am a 52-year-old, self-employed Gen-Xer who hasn’t worked as a full-time employee since 2014, whose primary work today is as an executive coach, and who’s launching a tech-driven company. Yes, I do have more knowledge about entrepreneurship — and I assure you the rose-colored glasses about it have long fallen off my face, hit the floor and shattered to pieces — but something more than that is different this time.

There are certainly parts of me that are driven, focused, moving with urgency and anxious about getting this concept “out into the world.” But at this stage of my life, I am being decidedly…softer. I am leaning into my feminine energy with intention and making sure I remain grounded throughout this build-phase of the process. In fact, I’m learning to trust the process — and trust myself.

That hasn’t always been the case. And I feel that difference. It doesn’t mean that I don’t get anxious; but it means I now have the self-awareness and the tools in place (whether it’s an affirmation or an activity) that help me recenter. It doesn’t mean that I don’t have fear of competition jumping in and launching their version of this idea before I do; but it does mean that I giving myself and the business the space, time and grace it needs to grow organically. And it doesn’t mean I’m not scared as hell about the idea of, at my big ol’ age of 52, deciding to begin again. I’m finding joy in this new beginning. Joy — and softness.

This business is going to challenge me in ways others have not.

It’s going to stretch me. It’s going to scare me. For example, this is my first time knowing from the start that I am going to have to raise funds for this business. We’re talking millions. The shift in mindset that this alone requires has been an interesting journey, and I’m just getting started.

So, what I’ve decided to do is document this journey. All of it. The highs, the lows, the wins, the lessons. I’m hoping it’s helpful for others — whether they’re already entrepreneurs or dreamers just thinking about it — but I’m also doing this for me! I am holing myself accountable for walking my talk. Bad Bitch, Soft Life, right? Ok then self, prove it! :)

If this content is interesting to you. I hope you’ll follow along. Comment, share your own journey, like if it resonates with you.