Ask For What You Want

And other bits of inspiration.

I attended a momcafe event this morning. Actually, I was working. I frequently shoot video at these events and cut together a promo package for their website. So, basically, I drink lattes, eat pastries and fruit, and press record when they start talking. Good work if you can get it.

And, of course, I get inspired. Every single one of these events has contributed to my life in some way. Today's was no exception. Television host, Tara McCool, talked about her experiences "balancing" motherhood and career. Ellen Percival, from Calgary's Child Magazine, talked about following her dreams while raising a family. Both had stories of mistakes made, opportunities seized and minds changed. (Other people's minds and their own.) They answered questions about how to get media coverage for small business, and how to make the most of your advertising budget.

My favourite bit of inspiration from Tara today was this..."Ask for what you want." It is so simple and yet we so often don't do it. We hope and pray. We hint and hint. But we are afraid to ask. Seriously, just ask. "I would like you to help me promote my business." "Can you take the kids while I work today?" "Let's do this meeting over the phone to save time." What is the worst that can happen? Someone says no. You are no further behind than you were before, so just ask. And say please.

Ellen talked for a while about how her and her business partner started the magazine, from their homes, kids in the background. And I was already impressed and inspired. Then, she told us how her business partner died in an accident a few years ago. She said the only way she could get through the tragedy was to remember what her partner, and friend, had always told her. "You can do it. You can do anything." Wow! Talk about inspiring!

Ask for what you want.

You can do it. You can do anything.

I have a feeling those two quotes will get me through a few challenges in the future.

Thanks, Tara and Ellen!