The Drive: what challenges have you overcome?
Because I’m running this business alone – and in a sense the ‘product’ or ‘service’ that I’m offering is also essentially me – the biggest challenges have often come from within: my own inner critic and the stories I’ve told myself. Imposter syndrome, moments of self-doubt, overthinking and fear of failure… these are all hurdles, not to mention all the new skills I’ve had to learn. Coaching, teaching and writing feel like home to me, but marketing, PR, accountancy, tech and graphic design? Not so much! And yet, being self-employed, these are all hats I’ve had to wear.
Another challenge has been figuring out what is effective when it comes to helping parents recognise the need for, and the impact of, learning about parenting and child development. We are told that parenting should come “naturally”, so there can be resistance to seeking support and guidance from a coach until there’s a really big challenge or crisis, and I’m constantly thinking of ways to reach people before it gets to this stage.
Each step outside my comfort zone has stretched me in ways I’m grateful for – although I probably wouldn’t have said that at the time! And, as I continue to receive consistent feedback from the families I am working with that it is genuinely helping people in meaningful ways, and my weeks become increasingly filled with more of what I love most, it has helped my imposter syndrome and inner critic grow a little quieter.
For Better or Worse: what are the pros and cons of running your own business?
One of the greatest joys is that I get to spend most of my day talking with people about conscious parenting – honestly, one of my favourite things in the world! Another huge pro is that I have had the autonomy to stay true to my values, prioritising the integrity of my work and the message. I get to set my own schedule, choose the topics that inspire me, continue to prioritise my own professional development and run workshops in a way that feels aligned.
There aren’t many cons so far- doing this honestly feels like a dream come true. That said, making all the decisions alone and knowing that there is no one else to pick up any dropped balls can feel overwhelming at times. I’m learning to ask for support when I need it!
Hopes and Dreams: What’s next?
Until now, I’ve been focused on building a community of like-minded parents through in-person workshops in my local area. I am now able to take on more 1:1 coaching clients, and am looking forward to expanding that part of my practice, and focus on creating more large group sessions in topics I’m passionate about. My most recent focus was on “Raising Boys: A conscious approach” and I am looking forward to focusing on “Raising Girls” in the immediate future.
I am also planning to engage with parents from further afield by offering more online resources and courses, and I’m excited about collaborating with practitioners of breathwork, yoga and other somatic practices to create integrated workshops that support parents on every level – mind, body and heart.
My North Star vision is to keep growing a connected community of parents who are supporting not only their children’s growth but also their own – in a way that I truly believe will change the world.
Connect with Charlotte:
🌱 Website: peacebypeaceparenting.co.uk
💚 Facebook: Peace By Peace Parenting
🌸 Instagram: @parentingpeacebypeace
