I don’t think you can have it all. I believe it’s a myth. Those were my thoughts until a friend mentioned a different point of view a few days ago. “You are thinking of having it all at some specific point in time. I think you can have it all throughout your life, just not all at the same time.” It made a lot of sense to me: having it all over time versus having it all right now.

2.5 businesses

I walk a line – the line between business and personal every day. On top of that, I walk a line in business; I own two companies, and I’m a partner on a third. They take a lot of energy, but I wouldn’t change a thing. Yes, there are times I think about saying, “Screw it all.” Thankfully these are few and far between.

Having more than one business might seem crazy. But when you look at the statistics of the times an average person changes careers (about 5 to 7 seven times during their working life), it makes sense. I just decided to have two careers at the same time.

Actually, mortgages and business coaching are very similar; they are both people-focused and strategic. When I started in mortgages, I had no idea I would end up with a company that funds over $100 million a year. I was pretty driven in the beginning, and all I did was work. I learned many, many lessons along the way. I had brokers with me. We had an in-house coaching program, and I did a lot of mentoring. So hanging out my coaching shingle was a natural progression.

When I started coaching my soul sang. It is where I am supposed to be, but I still loved the mortgage business. So I instead of picking between both businesses, I decided I would do both.

Can’t do it alone

I won’t say it’s always easy, but I get through the tough times. How? I don’t do it alone. Currently, I have what I call in my head “the ruler of Gina’s world” Stacey. She is fantastic and runs my world. She has her feet in all three companies and takes it all on. She makes everything seem effortless – I am well aware it’s not – and she allows me to focus on clients. I’ve been very fortunate; she is my fourth amazing assistant. Here is a hint: you get what you pay for. Think about that the next time you are looking to hire someone.

Systems rule the world

I have systems that run everything seamlessly. They got me and my businesses through breast cancer and four surgeries. Sure, there are still times I can’t seem to get my act together, and I don’t use the systems the way I set them up, but most of the time they work.

Structure sets me free. When I am not working within my structure, I feel anchorless, I need the grounding, and then I thrive. It doesn’t limit my freedom in any way because it’s on my terms and I designed it.

Some days having 2.5 companies is a challenge, but most days I thrive. No matter how much work there is to do, I make sure I have time for me because that’s the only way I can be the best in my businesses and I can be the best mom I can be. I may not have it all right now, but I will have it all, over time.

Are you happy with your career? Is there another business you would like to explore but aren’t sure about a career change? Let’s talk about it. With systems and structure, it’s possible you can do both.