Many business owners say that they would do what they do even if they weren’t paid for it.  That is true passion for doing a job which doesn’t feel like work  When we do what we love, it makes it easy to jump out of bed in the morning and get to the office.  Being an entrepreneur can be rewarding in many ways.  Of course, making enough money to live a comfortable lifestyle is a motivating benefit, but true fulfillment often comes in other forms as well, such as being an inspiration to others.

Whenever I speak to prospective clients, one of the first questions I ask is, “what will a successful business will do for you?”  The answers I hear range from personal fulfillment,  positive change in financial status, and  the inspiration of others.  Many people explain to me that they want to be role models to their clients as well as their circles of family, friends, and even their children.

This resonates with me because my success as a business owner is something I hope positively influences my own clients, colleagues, friends and family.   I spend a lot of time thinking about how my role as a business owner affects my two daughters.  I would love to see how they might emulate my path if they are so inspired.

As a former teacher, student, and parent, I know many educational systems spend time trying to match students talents and aptitude to suggested college programs and possible vocations.  While I recognize that this can serve a purpose,  it isn’t always the best method to help a student find their life purpose.

While I do want my girls to have a college education and have that experience, I often spend time talking with them about what they love to do now.  Many times our passions and interests as children are clues as to what may become a career that is more fulfilling than becoming a doctor, lawyer or architect because tests and guidance counselors suggest it.   When I think about my own interests as a child, I remember loving to write and teach.  It’s no surprise that both of these are key components to what I do as a business and marketing consultant.

Recently I’ve tried to devote some time to mentoring my fourteen year old.  She has accompanied me on some conferences where she has met some of my colleagues, who have been generous with sharing their wisdom and advice on subjects such as intuition, careers, and life.  I recently took her with me on a recent photo shoot to meet a photographer who blends her intuitive gifts with her photography talent.  I intuitively suspected that when I discovered this photographer (Siddiqi Ray of AuRay.com), that she was put in my path more for my daughter than for myself.

Because my oldest daughter has a passion for photography, that trip was very transformative as I invested in my daughter also experiencing the make-over and headshots taken.  The photographer felt a connection with her and volunteered to mentor her for a few days this summer.  This opportunity may have far reaching effects for my daughter.

Finding gratitude for being a business owner can be trying when we have days that are stressful.  I know there are days when I feel frustrated and overwhelmed.  But fortunately, seeing possibility and transformation through the people who are inspired by us as entrepreneurs, whether it’s through our clients, friends, family, or even our children, it serves as a powerful reminder that there are many rewards in living our dream.

If you have any comments or stories of inspiration or gratitude that have been influenced by your business, please leave me a comment.  I’d love to hear!