The Juggle is Real
The Juggle is Real
By Zoë Sparks
SHINE Business Women & Spectacular Events Pty Ltd
This isn’t another story about women juggling their work, families, health and social activities – although this is an important issue and something I strongly empathise with – but an article that attempts to SHINE the spotlight on another serious issue that I’ve been asked about a couple of times recently; which is women running businesses, working hard and building a professional profile, whilst often juggling a personal life that may contain hardship, stresses, illness and a whole host of other things that can impact a person ‘behind the scenes’.
In today’s world, women are making a huge impact in the business world. They are setting up businesses, influencing others, fighting for and taking up promotions and really making their mark. And this is all fantastic and great stuff! We often hear about the gender pay-gap and the need to smash ‘glass ceilings’ but what about the other issues that women face such as having to take on family stresses, caring for sick children, supporting elderly parents, dealing with trauma, illnesses, depression and fatigue whilst also working or running a business? These women are often working long hours behind the scenes and they have a huge amount on their plates to juggle.
Of course, all of the above is not something that only applies or relates to women either. The reality is that we live in a crazy world where demands are high and this most definitely applies to men also. It’s a real issue and one that is on the rise. We’re often on call 24/7, no matter how hard we try not to be; everything is fast paced and instant. Pressures mount up and are often relentless, and this juggle and the resulting overwhelm is real.
The other frightening reality is that people often don’t speak up as the stresses increase. There is so much pressure to be ‘Super Woman’, and whilst we look at others’ social media highlights reel, we battle on and ignore the warning signs that can often lead to intense stress, unhealthy habits and sometimes worse – anxiety, depression, chronic fatigue and a whole host of mental health disorders. The juggle, or struggle, really is real.
I’ve listened to a few stories recently where people are feeling overwhelmed, stressed, pulled in a number of directions and they sacrifice what is important to them to keep things rolling, be there for everyone else, whilst showcasing a perfect and thriving business or career; often the fear of failure of not being able to do it all can feel more terrifying that dealing with the load and daily grind, all whilst putting on a brave face.
So it’s time to speak up and look out for each other. There is nothing more powerful than ‘Girl Power’ and most women are supportive, can lend a friendly ear and offer advice and assistance BUT they need to be aware that they are needed. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help and if the people you are close to are frantic and busy in their own world, reach out to Women’s Groups and Networking Groups as they can often help or at least point you in the right direction. And if you’re doing OK, then don’t forget to ask other ‘R U OK?’.
I can honestly say that the last twelve months has been hugely exciting and challenging for me… I call it my year of extreme highs and devastating lows. I’m lucky to be surrounded by amazing friends and a loving family, and I have been focused on walking, time out and prioritising me by not saying ‘yes’ to everything so that I can take advantage of all the amazing opportunities that have come my way and try and keep things real without an excessive overload. It’s often hard, but necessary if we are to function well and give our best selves to others.
The juggle is real, and it’s something that is very real for a huge chunk of women in business. The key is not to be afraid to put up your hand and ask for help, remember that old saying – a problem shared is a problem halved? And you don’t always have to be Super Woman with an incredible show-reel; it’s OK to just be human.
As a last word, find your true friends and supporters, the ones that listen, support and lift your spirits when things are tough. Find the ones that make you laugh, boost your confidence and make you feel special, even when you’re not Super Woman!
Thursday 12th September 20169 is R U OK? Day. Check out their website today and if you know of someone that needs help or could use a friend, head to https://www.ruok.org.au/findhelp for a range of numbers that can help support, or to sign up and receive a kit to help you plan your own R U OK? day event. YOU can make a difference!
Please note that the author of this article – Zoë Sparks – is not an expert or trained in this area and is not qualified to give professional advice. This story has been put together to highlight the importance of the R U OK? website and the vital work the R U OK? organisation does to help those you may need assistance.
Zoë Sparks
SHINE Business Women & Spectacular Events Pty Ltd
Zoë Sparks has owned her award-winning travel, conference and event management company – Spectacular Events Pty Ltd – for the past twenty years. Her new division – SHINE Business Women – was launched in early 2018 and is already making a huge impact in the area of professional and personal development.
Recognised twice as a QLD Telstra ‘Business Woman of the Year’ finalist and also a winner of Sunshine Coast Outstanding Business Woman of the Year, Zoë has a proven track record for success and achievement. Zoë’s experience in small business is not only as a business owner but also as a franchisee, Board and committee member (companies and not-for-profit organisations) and volunteer.
Zoë is passionate about ‘women in business’ and reward and recognition which has led to her authoring three small business books sharing the tips and tricks she has learnt over the years. She also relishes her role as a mother to two teenage sons.
