Here as Look Further we have just experienced the arrival of two babies in two years, one for each partner. This has of course been an immensely happy time, but we’re not going to deny it, two pregnancies and maternity leave during a period of considerable professional growth was difficult to manage at times. Since we are probably not the only ones who have been through such an experience, we thought we could share our thoughts and some anecdotes with you!
Our most stressful times
At the beginning of 2018 when Elisabeth was four or five months pregnant, we had five new clients sign up in less than three weeks: we were so happy and excited but at the same time concerned that we wouldn’t be able to manage everything with one partner who was obviously going to be less mobile and off the radar for at least two months. Everything turned out fine! Didn’t it?? Please address any complaints to: e.boucher@lookfruther.fr
Our most hilarious times
Meeting with clients along with a baby who needed breastfeeding.
Our top tips
Being able to rely on a team that can handle day-to-day operations, leaving us free to concentrate on the core of the business where we can bring true added value.
Our bad times
Being seven months pregnant and working until 3am with a presentation to give the next day. Tough considering we’d already long been working 10hr-days and had another child to look after at home.
Our most emotional moments
These are yet to come! We’re looking forward to 18-month-old Charles and 4-month-old Ava meeting for the first time at our kids & family party on 20 October (see our article about Bien Elevées).
The best things we've learnt
The importance of reconnecting with time. Taking a break of two or three months to welcome a new baby is such a short period out of a whole lifetime. Keeping this in mind is the best way to let yourself give in, calmly let go and enjoy the happy times.
What will you remember?
When you’re a mum and an entrepreneur on your own, the challenge is certainly much more complicated than when there are two of you. We are well aware of how lucky we are to work in a partnership! As our friends Les Louves recently shared, “People don’t say it often enough but being able to work together is the most important ingredient when you create a company. Finding the right partner, the person who teaches you, who helps you to improve, to challenge yourself, to overcome your prejudices and deal with disagreements, who diffuses tension, teaches you tolerance and above all remains a caring influence at every turn”.