The Entrepreneur Trap: Designing a Business That Supports Your Life

Justin Welch once said, "The happiest entrepreneurs I know aren't the richest. They're the ones who built a business that complements their lives rather than consuming it." This statement resonates deeply with many of us who have ventured into entrepreneurship, only to find ourselves ensnared in a trap of our own making. The entrepreneur trap is the misconception that success is measured solely by revenue. In reality, true success lies in the freedom and fulfillment that comes from designing a business that supports your life. In the pursuit of entrepreneurial success, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating revenue with happiness. However, the happiest entrepreneurs are those who design their businesses to complement their lives rather than consume them. By working during your most productive times, pursuing an inspiring mission, and automating or delegating the rest, you can create a business that supports your life and brings true success in the form of freedom and fulfillment.

How Motherhood Is Just Like Running a Business

As a mother and business owner, I’ve come to realize that the skills required to excel in both roles are strikingly similar. The multitasking, the planning, the emotional investment, and the sheer determination needed to succeed as a mother mirror the qualities necessary for running a successful business. Owning and operating an orthodontics practice, an online candle company, and a blog that has blossomed into a small business has given me unique insights into how motherhood and entrepreneurship intersect. Let’s explore the parallels between these two demanding yet rewarding roles.

By embracing the similarities between these two roles, we can draw strength from our experiences and apply valuable lessons across different areas of our lives. Whether nurturing a child or growing a business, the journey is filled with ups and downs, but the rewards are immeasurable. Let’s celebrate the parallels between motherhood and business and continue to thrive in both realms.

Motherhood, Professional FinancialDr. Patrice SmithJuly 3, 2024twelve, motherhood, professional developmentComment

3 Years of Motherhood: Navigating New Phases and Balancing Life's Demands

My son, Braxton, just turned 3, and it's astonishing to reflect on how much has changed over the last three years. When he turned 2, I thought I was getting the hang of motherhood and thought by now I could ease back into focusing more on my career. However, this past year has shown me that each phase brings new challenges and rewards. Instead of finding it easier to balance work and family, I've been leaning more toward family life and the idea of being a stay-at-home mom (SAHM), or perhaps even semi-retired like my husband has crossed my mind several times. Each day, I’m taking things step by step and trusting God to guide my decisions.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithJune 2, 2024twelve, motherhoodComment

New Mom Must-Haves: Showering Love with Practical Gifts

I have officially entered the phase of life where all my friends, acquaintances, and colleagues are married, and it seems like there's a baby shower almost every month. As the invitations pile up, so can the pressure to find the perfect gift for the new parents-to-be. This is why today, I've compiled a list of some seriously stellar ideas for baby shower gifts that new moms will adore.

Baby showers can be a fun time for everyone: cake, party games, gender reveals, and all the fun things, But baby showers can also be stressful for the guest who has no idea what to gift the new parents. So, Let's talk strategy - First off, always check if the parents-to-be have a registry. Trust me, this will help you in making sure your gift hits the mark. And speaking from experience, the best baby shower gifts are often those that new parents have requested or recommended. If you’re looking for some inspiration, below are some of our picks for the best baby shower gifts and ideas for showering the parents-to-be.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 17, 2024twelve, motherhoodComment

Designing Your Life with Purpose and Freedom

In today’s world we often equate success with material wealth and possessions. It's easy to get caught up in the rat race of accumulation. Whether you're climbing the corporate ladder in a 9-5 job or running your own business, the pressure to chase after money and status can feel overwhelming. However, there's a different approach—one that prioritizes intentional living and designing your life around what truly matters.

Intentional living is about aligning your actions and choices with your values and goals, rather than simply going through the motions dictated by societal norms or external expectations. It's about consciously crafting a life that brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of purpose, regardless of your financial situation or professional aspirations.

Lifestyle & Travel, MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithFebruary 21, 2024twelve, personal development, professional development, motherhoodComment

Discovering True Wealth: The New Rich

In a world often measured by financial wealth, the concept of true richness extends beyond bank accounts and possessions. It’s about acknowledging the overlooked treasures that enrich our lives, nurturing our spirits and granting us a sense of fulfillment. Welcome to "The New Rich," where abundance transcends monetary figures and instead resides in the simple yet profound aspects of existence.

What if our genuine wealth is rooted in the things we often take for granted? Imagine waking up to a sunrise, feeling the gentle morning breeze, or savoring the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. These simple pleasures, often overlooked in the rush of daily life, compose the fabric of true richness. It's about relishing the unhurried moments that embrace our souls, granting us a profound sense of fulfillment.

Product Review: Willow Pump 3.0 - Total Mobility and Convenience for Nursing Moms

Not too long ago, my now 2-year-old son was nursing, and having a breastfeeding pump that was versatile and mobile was an absolute game-changer. I vividly remember those days of juggling a busy schedule, patients to see, and a little one to care for. It was during this time that I discovered the Willow Pump 3.0, a device that promised total mobility and convenience. In this review, I'll share my experience with the Willow Pump 3.0, how it eased my daily routine, and why I believe it's an essential tool for nursing moms who are on the go.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithAugust 9, 2023eleven, motherhoodComment

4 Reasons Why Cruises Are A Great Option For Your First Vacation with the Kids

While child-free vacations can serve as a much-needed reprieve from the stress of parenting, there’s still nothing like going on a family trip with your kids. As discussed in a previous blog post on ‘24 Months Being A Mom’, parenthood is a constant balancing act between tending to your personal and professional responsibilities and being able to spend quality time with your child. Traveling with your kid allows you to slow down and be present as they gain new experiences and learn more about the world around them.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithJuly 12, 2023eleven, Vacation, motherhoodComment

24 Months Being a Mom & The Balancing Act It Comes With

My son, Braxton turns 2 today and I honestly do not know how to feel or act. As I sit down to reflect on the past 24 months, I am struck by how fast time has flown by, yet at the same time, how it feels like an eternity since the moment I held my little one in my arms for the very first time. Being a mother has been the most transformative experience of my life, and I am grateful for every moment of it, the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

How to Find Work-Life Balance as a Working Parent: Tips and Tricks from an “Unorthodoc” Mom

Are you a working parent struggling to balance work and family life? Don't worry, you're not alone! Finding work-life balance can be a challenge, but there are tips and tricks that can help. As an "UnOrthoDoc" mom, I know firsthand how important it is to prioritize balance, accept help, create boundaries, and take time for yourself. Balancing work and family life isn't always easy, but with some effort and these tips, you can find solutions that work for you.

Leading an “UnOrthoDoc” Life and How You Can Too

You probably landed on my blog or have been a long time reader and wondered, what does she even mean by The UnOrthoDoc? UnOrthoDoc is a word I totally made up that became sort of my personal brand. By my definition, it is (n) someone who does not subscribe to stereotypes of what he/she should be, do or look like (adj): Contrary to what is usual; different. It is a play on words, taken from the word Unorthodox meaning to be different. Therefore, by definition, you may also be UnOrthoDoc.

Dr. Patrice SmithNovember 16, 2022professional development, personal development, motherhood, elevenComment

Father's Day Gift Guide

Father’s day is June 19th this year and since my gift guides have become quite popular I have decided to create one for dad, too. So here we are! I am rounding a few amazing gift ideas for the dad/father figure in your life.

Motherhood, Lifestyle & TravelDr. Patrice SmithJune 14, 2022Gift Guide, motherhood, nineComment

Cozy Earth Mother's Day Gift Guide

One of my favorite brands is having a Mother’s Day Sale and I had to share. I was introduced to Cozy Earth several months ago and I kid you not, they have some of the best quality products I have come across in a long time.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 26, 2022Gift Guide, motherhood, mothers day, nineComment

My Favorite Mommy Accessory: Tushbaby Carrier

Wearing the TushBaby is very comfortable, and it’s easy to put on. You simply wrap the TushBaby around your body, above the hips, and secure the velcro as well as the buckle. It feels very secure and with the heavy-duty velcro, it’s not going anywhere! Then you simply set your child on the seat. Discount code included.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 22, 2022motherhood, Gift Guide, nineComment

Mother's Day Gift Guide

I love receiving gifts! (perhaps it’s one of my love languages) and I equally love giving them, so I have rounded up a few gift ideas for the mommas in your life.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 17, 2022Gift Guide, motherhood, nineComment

How to Balance Work and Parent Life - Tips from Experienced Moms!

Balancing family and work has become an issue for modern families. It’s overwhelming and stressful, especially when you’re giving more attention to one at the expense of the other. This behavior has led to dysfunctional outcomes like strained family ties, poor physical and mental health, and inefficiency in the workplace. Here are tips from experienced moms to get you started.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithApril 6, 2022motherhood, balance, nineComment

Hospital Bag Packing List

This is for the mama’s to be who will be delivering their little bundle of joy in the near future and just want a little clarification on the necessities.

MotherhoodDr. Patrice SmithNovember 15, 2021motherhood, hospital bag, sevenComment

The Mommy Truck: My Top 5 Picks

I was absolutely not in the market for a new car. I loved my small SUV, It was perfect for me and seemed to fit a carseat pretty comfortably. However, shortly after the birth of my son I quickly realized that I did not have quite enough space for all the things that I now needed.

Balancing Motherhood & Professional Life

Mother - of all my titles, this is the one I am most proud of. I have been a mom for just under 2 months now and It has been one of the most fulfilling journeys, but it can be exhausting.