So How do Entrepreneurial Couples Do It?
Marriage takes work. It is especially true when you work with your spouse. Having your partner at your side all day at work and then for the rest of the night at home isn’t for everyone, but for Tony and Carmen Matthews, they couldn’t see life any other way.
Tune in to find out what makes Tony and Carmen a Happy Entrepreneurial Power Couple and co-owners of SuperFly, one of the hottest digital car magazines dedicated to showcasing some of the coolest and most unique cars in the world.
From Dreamers to Dynamic Duo
Tony and Carmen’s journey started after Tony woke from a dream and realised that he had had enough! They had started a business in 2008 but were struggling to devote the time needed to make it fly.
Tony had reached his limit.
Enough of slogging away at work that didn’t fulfil. Enough of long hours that robbed him and his wife of precious time together and enough of living a life that wasn’t making them happy as a couple. Within a week, they decided to dedicate themselves full time to their business and leave…EVERYTHING!
A new country, a new life, a renewed commitment to their marriage and business was calling them. Tony’s dream became the springboard for living their dream.
Twin Flames, Same Aims
Communication and passion for the business are essential for success as copreneurs. Tony explains that although he and Carmen work closely together, they always give each other physical and intellectual space. In this way, things flow, and discussions and disagreements take place in an atmosphere of mutual respect. They never lose sight of the fact that they are doing this for the person they love and the passion they have for their business.
Tony and Carmen’s Recommendations for a Successful Business/Love Combo.
Ditch that ego! You have to be willing to take advice and suggestions from your partner in the same way you would from any colleague. There may be disagreements but make sure it is coming from a respectful place.
Accept that there are some areas that your partner may be more talented than you but use the opportunity to learn and expand your skillset.
Roles will change and fluctuate. You may be the ‘frontman’, but your partner may like to take the lead in another area. Let them have a chance to shine.
Communicate regularly. Pay attention to what the other person says. If your belief system is aligned, your relationship and business will thrive.
Play to your strengths as a couple. You know each other’s strengths and weaknesses, and this can help define and delineate the areas of the business each partner will excel at.
Trust that when problems arise in your partner’s area that he or she will take care of it. If and when you need to firefight, then team up and decide who will take which actions.
Praise each other for a job well done; everyone likes to be appreciated.
Create a good work/life balance. Carve out time to be together and put the business conversations on hold. Take that yoga class, do some mindset work before you start your day, make time for date night. You both need to care for yourselves and each other to get the most out of your work, rest and play.
Leave work at work. It’s important to understand that your marriage/partnership is sacred and holds priority over your business. If you both share that mindset, you’ll create a stronger understanding and bond with your spouse/partner.
Enjoy the experience. Enjoy the opportunity to live your ‘why’, spend time with your loved one and create something worthwhile together. Have fun with your business and check in regularly to make sure things are working for you both. If not, then change it up a little and make sure you keep that sense of humour!...