How One Mindset Shift Transformed My Entire Business (And My Life)
The Same Room, A Different Woman
On the one-year mindset shift that changed everything
I was sitting in the same room I sat in a year ago; in Casablanca, Morocco; thinking about how work felt so much more easeful this time around.
A year ago, in this exact room, I made a vow to myself: I would either do the work or not. But I would stop wasting energy agonizing about having to start eventually.
Sometimes, a 9-hour time difference gives you a world of new perspective.
Every December, I come to Morocco from the US to spend time with my family. I left my home country at 18 for the dream of a better life. But nothing replaces moments with parents and family. Being home is forever grounding.
After a few years in the US, I decided to spend every December here. Things slow down at work toward the end of the year, remote work makes it possible, and honestly; it eases the guilt of choosing a life thousands of miles away from my roots.
But the 9-hour time difference is a sobering experience.
My morning routines get stretched out. And whatever dread I used to squeeze into 15–20 minutes before hitting my desk; it now has 9 hours to breathe.
Last December, I'd go out during the day; run errands, hit the gym; and spend the entire time anticipating the work I was avoiding. The dread of it all. The mental gymnastics of procrastination.
This year? I'm fully enjoying my mornings. Savoring breakfast with my mother. Being present for the smell of warm Moroccan mint tea. Cherishing conversations and stories I've learned to treasure.
I'll be honest though; it was more than just a mindset shift.
The energy in my business at the end of last year felt stuck. Clients weren't paying their bills. I had to forgo my own pay to make payroll; something I hadn't done since I started the business with my first $500. A stubborn sense of pride made me refuse to dip into savings. For some reason, I always equated dipping into my savings as failure (a topic for another blog on money mindset.)
So I got scrappy.
I sent out invoices that were long overdue. I tightened billing practices. I made sure marketing efforts were actually working and leads were being captured properly.
Then my patent associate left. I could see it coming; tasks left unfinished, energy stagnant. He needed to go, but I didn't want to face the effort of replacing him. And sometimes I struggle with feeling worthy of excellent people on my team. Like I can't truly afford the best of the best.
What I've learned over the years: great people aren't only motivated by money. Sure, some are. But there's a good handful of incredible talent out there looking for flexibility, work-life harmony, and a culture worth showing up for.
Sitting here now, reflecting on the year that passed and planning for the one ahead, I feel beyond grateful. Revitalized for my firm. Excited about new products to launch. Open to all the growth and creative endeavors waiting.
Sometimes, it starts with a single intention deeply rooted in a behavior that no longer serves us.
And choosing to outgrow the version of yourself who stayed stuck in dread.
To new beginnings!