By Jennifer Guzman
As a business leader, it’s crucial to recognize the personal challenges faced by your team members. Life doesn’t pause for anyone, and often, colleagues are dealing with private matters unknown to others. A key part of leadership involves providing support both professionally and personally.
Entrepreneurs and leaders frequently conceal their personal struggles to maintain strength and set a positive example. This is especially true when they face significant challenges at home, compelling them to keep moving forward.
I personally experienced this while undergoing eight rounds of in vitro fertilization (IVF). The journey was emotionally taxing, physically draining, and incredibly isolating. Fertility is a sensitive topic that affects many more people than is often acknowledged, making it hard to discuss openly.
Currently, I am on an adoption journey and approaching it differently. Here are three lessons I’ve learned about balancing fertility challenges with professional responsibilities.
Lesson #1: People Want to Help You
One of the most enlightening realizations is that many people genuinely want to help. When I began seeking support from those I trusted, wonderful things occurred.
I was introduced to valuable resources that significantly aided my adoption process. I received support from individuals who, despite not fully understanding my experience, were there for me.
A wise person once said, “When you don’t allow people to help you, you rob them of the opportunity to love you.” By sharing my journey, I enabled others to assist me in reaching my goals.
Lesson #2: You Need to Put Yourself First
Regardless of your position, whether a solo entrepreneur or CEO, it’s essential to prioritize self-care during a fertility or adoption journey.
IVF has intense physical side effects, and adoption can be overwhelming. Both impact your energy, mood, and mental health. It’s important to find ways to manage this load, starting with being honest about your needs.
Whether it’s reducing social engagements, seeking therapy, delegating tasks, or indulging in a hobby, identify what rejuvenates you and maintain strict boundaries around it. Your team will understand.
Lesson #3: There is Life Within a Fertility Journey
It’s easy to be consumed by fertility treatments and related activities. Social media announcements about pregnancies and baby showers can exacerbate this feeling.
Fertility is just one aspect of life. When it doesn’t go as planned, it can seem like everything else is crumbling. However, your loved ones, career, and the unique qualities that define you remain unchanged.
Focus on what you can control. Overemphasizing uncontrollable factors leads to frustration (at which point, refer back to lesson #2).
Navigating a fertility journey is challenging, but it doesn’t have to define you. Trusting in those around you, prioritizing effectively, and keeping perspective will help you through.
