How Embracing My Inner Toddler Made Me a Better Business Owner
Spoiler alert: It wasn’t about getting it right.
Toddlers? They’re tiny masters of resilience.
They fall 27 times before lunch, and somehow still find the energy to giggle, grab a snack, and try again.
Meanwhile, we adults hesitate to launch something new unless we’ve got a plan, a spreadsheet, and three backup scenarios to our what-ifs.
Somewhere between toddlerhood and now, we picked up a lot of pressure.
Perfectionism, comparison, fear of judgment.
It’s no wonder so many of us feel stuck when it comes to our business finances, creative projects, or even self-care.
But here’s the thing: trying is underrated.
The Fall Isn’t the Problem
If a toddler falls, we don’t say they failed.
We cheer. We clap. We say, “You’re learning!”
But when we stumble as adults: forgetting to track expenses, launching something that flops, or falling behind on our goals, we call it laziness.
Or worse: we think it means we’re not cut out for this (whatever *this* is).
Here’s your gentle reminder: falling is a feature, not a flaw.
You’re allowed to try again. And again.
And yeah, again.
What’s In a Try
Trying in business looks like:
- Tracking your numbers, even if it’s been a while
- Sending the e-mail that’s been sitting in drafts for a week
- Asking for help instead of pretending you’ve got it handled
- Showing up before you feel “ready”
Trying doesn’t need a gold star. It just needs your willingness.
The Toddler Test: What Would You Do If You Weren’t Afraid to Mess It Up?
Take a moment this week and ask yourself:
“What am I putting off because I’m afraid I won’t get it right the first time?”
Then, try it.
Clumsily. Boldly. With snacks (and a nap), if that helps.
And if you need a gentle bit of inspiration (or inspo, as the toddlers call it), check out that beautiful illustration by Melquea Smith at the top of this post.
I saw some of the other wonderful clipart available as part of the Brown Sugar Graphics (BSG) membership, and it only took me about a nanosecond to say, “I’m in!”
To find out more about the BSG membership & bring (more) representation of color & joy to your audience, visit here.
Because art, beauty, and fun should be part of every Inner Toddler playdate.
Final Thought
Trying is the real flex.
Not mastery. Not polish. Not having “all” the answers.
So fall, flop, toddle, then try again.
Just like you used to.
To your success always,
Paula
Your Numbers-Believin’, Rhythm-Holdin’, Pebble-Droppin’ BFF
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