Like many people my age, I have aging parents who need a little help. Case in point, next week my mom is having knee replacement surgery.
Both she and dad were worrying about how they’d manage when she gets out of the hospital. At one point she was almost in a panic. “Don’t worry,” I said. “If you need it I’ll just move in until you’re on your feet.”
They worried about me taking so much time off work but I reassured them. If I have my cell phone, laptop and internet access I can work from a coffee shop. Literally.
I once landed a new client, networked with a former client and created a marketing plan all while having a coffee and donut at Tim Horton’s. Setting up shop at their place is a piece of cake.
Yes, I’m having to do a little bit of juggling. For the first week or so after she gets out of the hospital I’m not booking any appointments and I’ve warned clients I may not be able to get back to them as quickly as usual.
But otherwise, I expect to be able to get a fair amount of work done. And since they live seven blocks from my house, if I’ve forgotten anything I can always run back home easily.
Being able to care for my mother and still run my business has given be a great deal of peace of mind. I could make the offer without having to ask permission or take time off work.
If I were working for someone else it wouldn’t be as simple. This is just one of the many reasons I’m so glad I had the courage to go out on my own eight years ago.
How has running a business given you the flexibility to do the things you need to do in your personal life? Please leave a comment and share your thoughts.
Andrea J. Stenberg
