What Common Childhood Lessons Have Taught Me About Business Ownership

As parents, we want our kids to grow up to be productive members of society, so there are a number of universal lessons we teach our children from an early age. When you think about it, it’s amazing how much relevance these childhood lessons can have in our adult lives.

Here are some of the things I try to teach my kids that are mirrored in my life as a business owner.

You Can’t Always Have Your Way

Productive relationships are built on compromise and a desire to see the other person’s happiness. Whether you’re working with a business partner, client or colleague, you have to be willing to allow some concessions in order to move your relationships forward.

Sharing is Good

Sharing is definitely not just for the playground. As a business owner and potential expert in your industry, you are in the perfect position to share your knowledge for the betterment of others. And sharing can be more fulfilling than you might ever suspect.

Watch Your Language

Vulgar, crass and offensive language is not acceptable from our kids, and it’s also not a good idea in a professional environment. Keeping your language G-rated is a good way to avoid offending anyone or looking foolish in business and in life.

Treat Others How You Want To Be Treated

The same Golden Rule we try to instill in our children applies in business relationships. Respect is a two-way street, and if you’re not being respectful toward others, you can’t expect them to treat you with respect.

You Can Do Whatever You Set Your Mind To

Just as we don’t want to limit the success of our children, you should allow yourself to aim high in business. With determination, confidence and hard work, you can achieve anything. Set goals that make you stretch, let yourself dream and go for it.

Image credit: hortongrou

Alyssa is the owner of avertua, LLC, author of VA Secrets Revealed, founder of the Virtual Assistant Hub, blogger at the Small Business Idea Generator, mom to two kids with a third on the way, and a whole bunch of other stuff!

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4. 5 Work at Home Mom Lessons
5. How to Get Your Family to Support Your Home Business