10 Things Breast Cancer and the Coronavirus Taught Me About Business

When I was first diagnosed with breast cancer I was forced to, for the first time in my life, relinquish control and take a step back from my work. This moment has been one that I often reference because not only did I learn about the importance of self-care but also how to better run my business without compromising my health. With the Covid-19 epidemic forcing businesses to temporarily close up shop, I encourage entrepreneurs to use this time to pull back and evaluate areas of opportunity to prioritize their mental, emotional and physical health.  Here are 10 things breast cancer taught me about business. 

1. It’s okay to take a chill pill and rest; in fact, sometimes it’s absolutely necessary to do so.
2. There’s nothing wrong with leaning on family and friends for emotional support or additional help.
3. After a certain point, it becomes imperative to hire additional employees to maintain the upward trajectory of the business. I don’t have to be/can’t be Superwoman all the time.
4. It’s not illegal to prioritize my health and put myself and my needs before the business.
5. “Breast cancer gave me the permission I needed to do what I wanted to do, when I wanted to do it, and how I wanted to do it. When my life was hanging in the balance, I quickly learned to reshuffle the deck of life’s priorities” – This Is Only A Test Ch. 4, p. 35
6. The time I have should be spent working on things that bring value to my life and the lives of others. Don’t waste precious time doing what others expect me to do.
7. The biggest challenges in our lives hold the key to the biggest lessons and successes. One of my personal favorites is that “Pressure makes diamonds.”. This means that no matter how hard things get I know that something great is on the other side of the stress.
8. Trust your employees to get the job done without holding their hand along the way. Micromanagement does nothing but slow down the process.
9. Work cannot be a cover up for other deep-seated issues, like relationship problems, insecurities, family issues, etc. You must face these challenges head on, or they’ll come back to haunt you.
10. “Let go and let God” Trust the process/the long game.
11. Stay focused on your own path, strategy, and business. There’s no point in comparing your journey to someone else’s.

Did any of the lessons resonate with you? How often do  you prioritize your well-being over your work?