There has been a reoccurring question from people lately: are you crazy?
The answer? Perhaps. But I’m OK with that.
The last few months have challenged me on my intentionality as a wife, mom, and business owner. In August, I started pursuing an Executive MBA, at the start of a new school year for my 4 and 9-year-olds, the start of a fresh travel hockey season, and the start of what we here at C&R lovingly call “fall selling season”. I had parents who instilled this “you can do anything” mentality, and some might say I take it a bit too far, but I truly believe in most cases, we can have our cake and eat it too.
This season of busy has me really keeping tabs on my priorities. During MBA orientation, we were challenged to identify our “non-negotiables” – or things we won’t sacrifice to get our MBA. For me, that was time with my boys (missing as few hockey games as possible!) and my husband. Without them, this journey would be for naut. While I’ve always prioritized my family, changing the narrative to making them a total “non-negotiable” was very meaningful for me.
I’ve found those non-negotiables being more applicable in my life since clearly identifying them than ever. When Levi had a hockey game several hours away that meant leaving residency week one hour early, I did – even when the professor recommended I do not and I knew my participation grade could suffer. That was a big moment for me as a rule follower! I was so proud of myself for sticking to what was right for me and my boys. Similarly, when Luca asks me to take a break from work or studying and play hockey with him, you better believe I do.
These years with little ones go so fast, and I want to be the most present mom I can be – while also inspiring them to chase their dreams, no matter how big. I believe my non-negotiables will help me lead a life that leaves the kind legacy I want.
What are your non-negotiables?
In partnership,
Michelle Blevins
Michelle Blevins
Michelle Blevins is a content creator, marketing consultant, and entrepreneur whose career has been centered around education and fostering relationships within the industry she serves.
A journalist by trade, Michelle is passionate about running a publication rooted in integrity and valuable education. She views her role as owner and publisher of C&R Magazine as a bridge between industry experts and restoration and cleaning contractors.
Since joining the restoration industry, Michelle has made it her business to stay on top of the latest industry trends. She has become a go-to resource for anyone looking to learn more about what’s happening within today’s restoration industry. This has earned her a spot on many industry stages facilitating panels and helpful discussion with industry experts on the biggest topics facing restorers and cleaners in the current market.
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