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It’s amazing how much overlap there is between parenting and coaching. Half the time, I am coaching high performers, entrepreneurs, and thought leaders. The other half, I’m dealing with a two-year old. Both of them make me become better at the other. So here are the lessons that I learned from my toddler that you can use for your business.

1. Feel all of your emotions

When you are trying something really hard, and you just can’t get it, or you fail, make sure you feel all of your emotions. Process through that feeling of frustration, anger, or disappointment. My toddler throws a mini tantrum but feels better afterwards. He then comes back and tries again. This is so important. The most successful people are prolific creators. If you are stuck on the sidelines, you are going to be way behind.

2. Take a breather

I see my toddler give up right when he is about to get the puzzle piece in. Oftentimes, we are  so close to success and we just can’t quite see how to get there. All you need is taking a breather and coming at it from a different angle.

3. Ask for help

For toddlers, it is totally normal to be a beginner. But for us, we do not like to feel like beginners, so it is harder. As a result, it becomes harder to ask for help. One may already have had some success in his adult life but it becomes crucial when you get outside perspective and emotional support. Go back on that thing that is giving you the hard problem and frustration and work on it, this time, with the help of others.

4. Manage your energy well

You have probably seen some screaming kids in the middle of the afternoon. That’s because it is about naptime. When we start getting tired, our physical energy dips and it becomes hard to deal with challenges. If you do not have a full cup, then all of a sudden, your problems are going to be way harder. It is thus super crucial that you manage your internal state.

5. The power of reciprocity

My toddler started bringing gifts and looking for hugs to try to get attention and I listen just for a moment, which pretty much solves everything. If you can figure out how to continue to be a giver, then people will be programmed to want to help you.

Also, don’t forget to celebrate!