Pain
If you've been reading my last few emails, you know I've been deep into living my sports mom life this summer. Between Ila running in a big competition that she qualified for and Zadie starting to dabble in wrestling, I've been thinking a lot about what it takes to be great at anything.
Me with Sabrina Elba (head sister wife to Idris Elba ) and their daughter Isan Elba at a brand activation at DUMBO House for The Elba's skincare line Sable Labs. There was Sugar Hill Creamery ice cream, skincare products, and very good vibes all around.
This past week, a neighbor forwarded me a post that illustrated entrepreneurial life so well. I shared it in my IG Stories because it was too funny not to.
But all jokes aside, the post captured what many people face as adults no matter if they are an entrepreneur…pain and the need to push through it as you work towards your goals, whether they be professional, domestic, or personal.
But is pain bad?
We all shy away from the discomfort of pain, but it doesn't have to be bad. It can be a sign of growth and expansion, at least that's the case if you are an athlete.
As I've been watching my kids and other kids at these sporting events and classes, what I've noticed is that they lean into the pain. As an athlete, pain comes with the territory. If you're not feeling the burn or being pushed by someone who has more skills than you, are you even playing the game?
There definitely is a difference between the pain that comes with pushing yourself and the pain that is inflicted upon you because of someone or some circumstance. The distinction between the two is your agency–your power to say, "Bring it!"
This morning, as we were walking to Zadie's wrestling class, I thought to myself, "I may not be a real athlete, but I sure am a life athlete." The grit that is required to be a mother, wife, and business owner, is not for the faint of heart. There is discomfort and pain that comes with each one of these identities. But, if you view life as a sport, you let the pain roll off your back and you keep putting in the work to be the best athlete you can be.
During the end of Zadie's wrestling class, the coach talked about not being afraid to take risks while wrestling your opponent. If you take the risk and it doesn't work out, you may not get a point, but you do get the lesson of what you did wrong.
Isn't life the same way?
Taking risks, welcoming growth-oriented pain, and having a coach while you do all of this is the recipe for your success.
Gratuitous picture of our dairy-free strawberry lemon twist soft serve because Monday, August 19th is National Soft Ice Cream Day . It's available at our East Harlem store and there's a dairy-free lemon twist soft serve available at the Time Out Market location.
This fall, I will have three spaces for one-on-one clients.
If you are a high achiever who may be a little scared of taking calculated risks as you up-level your life, I'd love to work with you.
If you like growth-oriented pain and you, too, are a life athlete looking to master the new technique of living boldly, I'd love to coach you through this next stage.
If coaching is something that you want to do but can't afford right now, and you'd like to do some personal development work, drop us a line to learn more about Everyday Freedom, my group coaching program (formerly Mastering the Art of Work) designed for people looking for guidance, community, and accountability as they embark on a new chapter in their lives.
Here's what past participants have shared about the program:
“As a full-time professional, I had been struggling to balance my demanding job with my creative ambitions of writing a book, until Petrushka’s expert coaching helped me define my purpose, gain confidence in my vision, and take the actionable steps needed to methodically complete my first manuscript. Petrushka’s specific advice to take dedicated writing time off from work was instrumental in accelerating my progress. I would highly recommend Petrushka’s coaching to anyone aspiring to complete any project that feels currently out of reach.”
“Petrushka’s coaching was transformative during my career transition from academia to entrepreneurship. Her insightful guidance helped me identify and overcome personal barriers such as imposter syndrome and self-doubt, enabling me to recognize and capitalize on my unique talents and skills. The shift became smoother and more empowering with her support. She helped me celebrate my wins, making entrepreneurship feel achievable and exciting. Honestly, she’s been the best cheerleader and guide. Any professional navigating a career change or striving to balance personal and professional aspirations can greatly benefit from Petrushka’s expertise and unwavering encouragement.”
“If you have a negative outlook on what you feel is possible, Mastering the Art of Work will change that. This class will give you more tools and possibilities as you work towards your goals.”
Here’s to a strong close to what has hopefully been an amazing summer full of new (painless and painful) growth, opportunity, and relaxation.
Petrushka
Your Local Ice Cream Lady & Life/Business Coach
P.S. The next New Mom's Group starts on August 22nd. Tell a friend!