Do you know how to build a business?
If you are like me, a working woman over 50 you’ve probably never built a business before. Thinking back, I remember how shocked I was at what I needed to learn in order to be successful. How do you build a business working at home when you don’t have a clue? Tools. You use the tools available from your new company, your business coach, and other suggested sources.
Just the other day, a good friend and business associate and I had a conversation. We have worked together in business for years. Both of us struggled with a lot of the same issues, but our main hurdle was our emotions. It seemed that we always ended up feeling this or that about a decision that was made like this employee or that one leaving the corporate staff.
I was able to share a few thoughts about emotion and business that I had learned from associates in my brick and mortar business. The first thing necessary is to understand that your business does NOT define who you are nor your success in life, YOU do. Your actions determine whether you are building a business or playing the part; you do the work, results follow. As for the business, it is simply a tool used to get what we want, a means to an end.
An example to make it clearer might look like this. A carpenter is capable of building a house, with the tools kept in his belt. He uses one of those tools, a hammer to pound nails into the frame to hold it together. Collectively, those walls nailed together using the hammer builds a home which is his goal. If the carpenter did not use his tools but instead was in a state of emotional distress about the owner changing the shift foreman would the house get built? No.
So, when we allow negative emotions to paralyze us, we not only hurt ourselves; but, we hurt everyone else around us that needs and wants what we have to offer. Removing that emotion we are able to use business as a tool to help others get what they want and as a means to an end for us (what we want or our goal).
I hope this story helps you today. It sure took the weight of the world off of my friend’s shoulders; I could hear it in her voice. Enjoy the rest of your day. Go, share your story. Help someone else get what they want and your needs will be cared for, too.
Carla Gardiner is a mom of 2, the fiery grandma of 7 and has been married to her husband for 38 years. She is focused, and driven; a business owner who made a big move in her late 50’s which rocked her world. Transitioning from her native hometown to her new home 3 states away took guts, work, and dedication to get the job done. Now, she is focused on helping other women handle life’s changes after 50 while making the transition to their retirement lifestyle; one they’ve been dreaming of instead of the nightmare it could become.
P.S. Before you go I have a question for you. Are we connected on Facebook? Each week we get together and I share on Facebook Live a lifestyle tip, a business tip, or even something fun to mix it up and keep life interesting. Join us, we are one wild bunch of women over 50. Click here to go to my Facebook Page.
"Very well put. I've been with a health and nutrition company for over 26 years and I understand exactly what you are going through. I shiver to think what my health might be today at age 68 had I not stuck to my guns as far as practicing what I preach. Yes, I fall off the wagon regularly but my daily routine life reflects taking care of my health. That way I can keep up (somewhat) with my 7 grandchildren. You keep it up, Carla". 
"For most people the thought of venturing out there in pursuit of your dreams, in a place outside of your comfort zones is just what stops them. But I could sense your excitement not resentment in going against the competition. In planting your stake and truly making a difference in the clients experience. That's ultimately what matters, the rest just falls so easily into place. Thanks for that reminder"! 
Carla, I’ve got to say that I LOVE your focus on the joys and challenges facing women over 50. I’m definitely in that camp! I’ve been inspired by your candor, practical ideas, and refreshing determination to joyfully tackle life. The hours we’ve spent on the phone, in person, and through social media have enriched my life immeasurably. YOU are one Fiery Grandma, and I love your style! 
I have known Carla Gardiner for 6+ years. We met at a business training for bring business online. She is a business women at heart and willing to do the hard things to make the results show up. I have watched her run a business, work a job and take care of her family. She is a go getter when it comes to putting in the work to build her business to the level of being able to enjoy her grand kids.
She is the example that age is not a limit it is a tool for sharing knowledge to those she empowers to use their own skills and talents. Excuses are fuel to push her to learn and apply. I have seen her scared to death about implementing new technology and rock it out despite the learning curve.
I love watching you grow into your greatness Carla! Don’t slow down. 
"Carla, you are a model for me to follow. I love your site. And, I like what you have to say - very kind, very gracious. I have to say though that nothing in my life has ever been crystal clear". 
"I've known Carla for 5+ years and can tell you that she has lived every bit of this and more. We shared tears and laughs and hard work....you will enjoy getting to know Carla."
