What you focus on, grows 

I hit a wall! I was becoming increasingly overwhelmed by all the things I could not do and had no idea how to overcome.

I thought I’d be seen as a failure for not being able to keep up, not being able to hit the mark and I really wanted to just give it all up…

So, I took a step back. Well, a few steps if I’m honest! I had to look at everything that was getting on top of me and try to choose just one thing to focus on, just for now.

I chose to complete an online course I’d begun a few months back. I enrolled on the course to help me with our business however, the more the business grew, the less time I had for my studies.

I knew I had to complete the course however the excuses were piling up … ok, maybe not excuses so much but let’s say my priorities were all over the place! Although the course was started to help me progress in my role, I realised how great the other consequences would be if I did not complete it.

From a financial aspect, if the course (which was free) was not completed by the end of the academic year, I would incur a charge. There was no way I was going to pass up qualifying for free because I didn’t have the time!!

As a parent, I could not continue to encourage my children to “never give up”, “finish what you started”, or say “you’ve got this” in all honesty if I did not take my own advice and complete the course! The whole family had seen me in many a stressful mood when my assessments were due in and each had been as helpful as they could be throughout.

Whatever I do or say, I’m a constant example to my children and so, you can imagine how wonderful it was to share with them that mummy had successfully completed her course!!! They were as pleased for me as I was for myself and as soon as that certificate of accreditation arrives, I’m framing it!

“Don’t stop until you’re proud”

Am I teachable?

Have you ever had a great idea for something … while you’re asleep?

It happens to me quite often, from knowing which outfit to wear the next day, to what to prepare for the evening meal! But sometimes, it’s an idea about how to be more productive in my role, or a great topic for a blog post .. the only problem is that I can’t recall the whole idea once I’m awake!?!

I used to think my husband was a little crazy when I’d hear him in his office, in the middle of the night, making voice notes on his phone but when he explained that this was how he brings his ‘night ideas’ to fruition, it began to make sense!

Maybe I need to take a leaf out of his book, learn from experience and who knows, I may actually be able to retain any thoughts that cross my mind during the night (or at any other time!)

But even when I am awake and ‘fully alert’, I can struggle to retain information. For example, if my husband is having a conversation with me while I’m changing the baby, and he begins to talk about issues relating to the business, it can be difficult to take everything in.

In response to this, I asked him if we could have a set time together, to go through the minor details of the business when I can focus, take notes or record for future reference. Quite proactive, right?! I’m trying my best but I’m sure something else will come up that teaches me something new…

Being new to my current role, I’m learning from all of the experienced people around me, those who have paved the way for women like myself to step out into the realm of owning businesses. My husband would be the person I learn from most, and now I’m thankful to be meeting more and more people through the wonderful world of Social Media, who are all as equally encouraging as my husband.

“Everything in life comes to you as a teacher.
Pay attention.
Learn quickly”

A short introduction

Hi, I’m Abiyah and I have created this blog to share my experiences as a newly established business woman, wife and mother.

My husband and I married in August 2017 and although we already had 4 older children between us, we welcomed our first baby together less than a year later!

My husband created our business shortly after our son was born and things are going really well, which we’re very thankful for.

I’ll tell you a little more about my take on the business in other blog posts but working alongside my husband is truly a blessing; he’s so encouraging and patient with me because, unlike him, I knew nothing about marketing! But I’m learning more every day and can sense a growing passion for this type of work.

I’m enjoying the journey so far and really look forward to what comes our way and of course, sharing it all with you too.

“Life is about creating and living experiences that are worth sharing” Steve Jobs