MMIA Magazine - Million Moms In Action Magazine August/September 2014 | Page 41

20 mogul moms The Joyful doctor “It is important to enter into the idea of entrepreneurship with a positive attitude about what you wish to accomplish. Make no mistake it takes hard work, persistence and self-motivation to succeed as an entrepreneur. Y must be willing to stay the course for the long haul and fail your way forward.” ou MMIA: When did you decide to become an entrepreneur? LESLY: My entrepreneurial spirit began at the age of 12 when I had my first paper route. I was responsible for making sure the newspapers were prepared for delivery to my customers. There was no one looking over my shoulder and it was my responsibility to make sure that the job was done. My salary was dependent on my production. Fast forward to today I have owned several businesses and realized early on that I truly enjoy the independence and freedom that entrepreneurship offers. Along with the financial benefits and the ability to make a difference in the world. MMIA: How long did it take you to go from business idea to actually seeing income? LESLY: It probably took longer than I wanted which was overnight. Once I put the work in and attached myself to a business coach and community of like-minded individuals I started to see income. The reality is that you must put in the necessary time and work before you see income. MMIA: Do you ever regret your decision to become a full-time entrepreneur? LESLY: I absolutely have no regrets. I love being an entrepreneur because of the personal rewards along with the opportunity I get to make a difference in the lives of other people. MMIA: How do you balance the roles of mommy and entrepreneur? LESLY: I make it a priority to find balance. I have raised three sons all while working my own business. As an attorney in private practice there were days that I had to appear in court. I viewed it as an opportunity for my boys to see mommy at work. If they were out of school I took them with me to court or to my office. With the flexibility of my own business I always allotted time to take the boys to extracurricular activities and in the summer on vacation. Two of my sons are now grown and living on their own. My youngest has one more year in high school. It is important for me to be present during this last year. As I write this article I am with him in Las Vegas, NV, as he competes in a national math competition. With the benefits of being an entrepreneur I have been able to support his achievements and get work done on my down time. MMIA: How do your children feel about mommy being an entrepreneur? LESLY: My children respect my work ethic, determination, and selfmotivation. Seeing my example two of my sons have expressed the desire to one day own their own business. Additionally, they find comfort in knowing that I am around when they need me. MMIA: Take us through a typical day in your life. LESLY: • 6:00am Wake up pray, read bible. • 7:00am Gym or walk five miles. • 8:30am Pray with my prayer partners of 20 years. August /September 2014 • 9:00am Shower. • 9:30am At my desk reviewing task for the day. •1 0:00am Make calls to prospects. • 1 :30am Social media connection with community. 1 • 12:00pm Tuesday radio show airs • 1:00pm Meetings if scheduled. • 3:00pm I am