Would you like to dance?

As a mom, I accept the fact that my children believe I know absolutely nothing. It’s one of those truths that hit you like a mortal combat finisher move. It hurts but there is time to come back from it if you hit the right buttons. ☺️

My daughters went to their homecoming game & dance recently. They had a blast as always but their experiences made me smile a little bigger this year. Not only do they listen to what I say at times…they live it! (A win for this mompreneur) This particular time made me realize that a lot of the things they do mirror what I do as an entrepreneur.

1. Ask the right questions

“What is my budget?” This is a question you will not likely hear most teenagers ask…ever! When my youngest daughter asked her uncle this while dress shopping I almost did a backflip. Another point for team mom! This allowed her to get her dress and a few accessories without going over her budget. She was happy and my brother was ecstatic.

Asking the right questions gives you power and understanding. It also allows you to see where boundaries have been set in place. Even the simple question “What is your budget” makes many entrepreneurs cringe. Asking this question can provide you with better client retention and better results for the client. Maybe they can’t afford your class but they can afford to purchase the workbook.

Ask the right questions and they will help you succeed.

2. Be willing to stand out

There is only one version of you and that is your superpower. My girls stand out from their wardrobe to their choice in music. Choosing a dress, or cute African print shirt and overalls for homecoming falls in line with this. My oldest daughter has never been the one to fit into anyone’s box or bubble.

Entrepreneurs everywhere need to take a play from my daughter’s playbook on life.  When it comes to the services you offer or the opportunities that you create to take the leap and stand out.

3. Be the voice

Advocacy is a title many don’t realize they have. They see what they are doing as just helping, just speaking up, or just being supportive. One of my girls saw a problem and sprang into action. The school office made an announcement that ticket sales were extended another day but then they didn’t sell tickets the next day. They created a waiting list.

Other students complained or just accepted the change. Not my girl! ☺️ She went to the principal to advocate on behalf of the students. (Yup…proud mama) She followed up with the Principal the following day which resulted in tickets being issued to the students on the waiting list. The funny thing about it is that the students will most likely never know what she did.

In your industry, you MUST be the voice even when the cameras are off. I know we want the accolades and recognition but there is a bigger mission. Being the voice means to know who to talk to and following up with that person. You may never help high school students attend the homecoming dance but your voice may change something in your industry.

BONUS!!!

4. Serve one person

This one I saved for last because I may need a few tissues as I write it. They saw a young lady sitting alone and sprung into action. “Would you like to dance?” In a time where bullying is at an all-time high, I’ve always made it clear for then to 1. Pay attention to their surroundings, and 2. See people. Many times we get so caught up in our own lives, misfortune or disappointment that we walk right by another person who just needs a smile.

This is the biggest flaw I see in entrepreneurship. Everyone wants to help the masses instead of focusing on the one person that needs you now. When you lock in on serving that one person you will see a huge shift. Oh, and not to mention that there will always be other people that show up as a result of the work you are doing for that one person. Niche down and learn to see people.

They made a huge impact on that one young lady. I’m not surprised though because they make a huge impact on me every day.

 

Do you know of any other business lessons you could learn from a homecoming dance? From creating the perfect theme to souvenirs and pictures.

I would love to know your thought on it.

With over ten years of writing, Altovise uses her platforms to create opportunities for women to have their voices heard. Founder of the World Voice League, she educates and empowers through courses, a weekly accountability call, blogging, books, and the #SpeakEasy Podcast.

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