Yin and Yang: How do you balance work and family?
Balancing the demands of work and family life is an ongoing challenge that I grapple with, recognising that achieving equilibrium is a continual work in progress.
My journey began when I had my first son while still immersed in university studies, dedicating long hours to my academic pursuits. The realisation struck swiftly that this intensity was taking a toll on my family dynamics and personal well-being. Despite my driven nature, the guilt of being largely absent throughout the day prompted a crucial mindset shift, leading me to understand the unsustainability of such a rigorous work approach with a young family. This all also prompted me to reassess and adopt a more flexible and efficient work style, a philosophy that goes right through my approach to my business today.
Thankfully, a significant aspect of my work is very conducive to a home setting, giving me the opportunity to tailor my schedule around my children’s routines. This flexibility allows me to get that balance between professional commitments and family life. Embracing this not only addresses the challenges of work-life balance but also influences the approach I take in managing and growing my business, ensuring that both personal and professional spheres harmonise in a way that fosters overall well-being.
The drive: What challenges have you overcome?
The transition from a focus on “in-person” client training to launching my own business brought unforeseen challenges, particularly in areas where my expertise was not as pronounced. Despite being well-versed in exercise during pregnancy, I realised the significant gap in my knowledge when it came to building a website and establishing an online presence. This marked a substantial learning curve, accompanied by a series of mistakes. However, these experiences, now integral to my business journey, have become valuable lessons in the process of starting a venture from scratch.
As far as entrepreneurship goes, I have most definitely encountered challenges during my journey. It hinges on how one navigates and overcomes these challenges, ultimately determining the fate of the business.
Some of the challenges I faced were:
- Time – Being a mum of 3 boys, a 2.5 and 9-year-old, means I feel as though I always struggle to fit everything into my day. I constantly feel as though I should be doing more in my business because my children take up so much of my time. But at the same time, I feel so grateful that I am able to do a job that I love and still be home and be present for my children.
- The Team – Finding the right team to support me – as mentioned, while I worked with some amazing people, I also have had times where I just could not move forward. But I accepted that sometimes you need to stop and regroup to be able to move forward again.
- Tech & Development issues – No one tells you how challenging it can be developing Tech! We had various problems with the Program Development and Website, issues with payment gateways, and juggling so many things at once – these came, and I dealt with it all!! – and came out the other side knowing more and being better prepared!
Thankfully, my determined nature served as a driving force, propelling me forward in the face of obstacles. Rather than being deterred by the hurdles encountered, each challenge became a catalyst for further dedication, reinforcing my commitment to making Strong by Alex a thriving success.
For better or worse: What are the pros and cons of running your own business?
Navigating the running of your own business comes with its share of advantages and challenges, creating a complex experience! It can be rewarding, scary and fun all at the same time!
On the positive side, the most rewarding aspect of running my own business is the impact it has on my customers’ lives. There’s no greater satisfaction than hearing success stories of how my program has positively influenced individuals throughout their pregnancy and beyond. When you believe in the business you’ve built, the rewards can be so fulfilling.
However, the entrepreneurial journey is not a shortcut to success for everyone, and it certainly hasn’t been for me. While some may strike luck and achieve overnight success, the reality for most business owners - myself included – involves navigating a rollercoaster and often stressful path.
Building a successful business demands considerable time, resilience, and determination before the successes become tangible. The journey, though challenging, is a big part of the entrepreneurial experience.
Hopes and dreams: What next?
Looking ahead, my hopes and dreams revolve around the expansion and diversification of my program-getting more exposure and traction with the community and helping even more women.
I aim to introduce a broader range of classes, all designed to be safe for pregnancy and postnatal stages. The goal is to provide my customers with a versatile suite of fitness options to support them throughout their motherhood journey.
Ultimately, I envision establishing Strong by Alex as the foremost platform for pre and postnatal fitness, becoming the go-to resource for women seeking comprehensive support during these transformative phases.
I do love what I do and that keeps me going!
Visit the Strong by Alex website to find out more. You can also find them on Instagram, LinkedIn, YouTube and TikTok.
