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By Michelle Cohen, Principal, Leapfrog Johannesburg North East 

The importance of securing your own mask in the event of an emergency on a flight, before helping anyone else, is an analogy that is cited time and again in reference to the importance of taking care of yourself first. It may be a tired example but the sentiment behind it is more relevant than ever, as the world continues to see a rise in mental health risk cases.

While I’m neither qualified nor interested in deep diving into mental health as a topic, I am passionate about the wellbeing of women in the workplace and firmly believe in the “secure your own mask first” approach. Prioritising your own physical, mental and spiritual wellbeing is not a nice-to-have or something you can attend to when you have three minutes between meetings, household responsibilities, the school dropoff etcetera etcetera. It is with certainty that I can say that women who prioritise their wellbeing thrive at work – they’re both happier and more productive.

Drawing on my own expertise, and what I’ve seen with friends and colleagues, I know the “secret” to wellbeing cannot be encapsulated in a simple list of tips or advice, but rather speaks to mindset where you understand that your value in the workplace is directly related to your wellbeing as a woman and a human being.  

On staying sharp, inspired and motivated 

Over the years I’ve learned that discipline and consistency trump motivation time and again. We can’t always be motivated but we can put processes and structures in place to ensure we’re disciplined and motivated. Having said that, I do not ever want to be financially reliant on anyone and that’s been a big motivator for me, and continues to be. Today I’m in a position where I can help others, especially women, to find their way in this business and to become financially self-reliant. 

Building a business – any business – is as much about the hard work, the systems and the process, and the profitability, as it is a labour of love. It must be a calling, otherwise the road would be too tough. 

Creating this business in the property sector has been the most wonderful journey, and continues to be. Apart from my own financial security, it’s a business that allows me to create a platform for others to do the same and that’s something that brings me great joy and that I am very proud of. 

Play as hard as you work 

Nothing is ever going to replace smart, hard work but we all know the old adage about all work and no play making us dull… I believe in doing different things to stimulate new pathways in my brain. A few years ago I learned to play golf and I prioritise going to the gym because a healthy body and a sharp mind go hand in hand. 

Surrounding yourself with smart people on a regular basis is crucial for growth, development and new ideas. They say “if you are the smartest person in the room, find a new room” – it’s the absolute truth!

Advice to fellow female entrepreneurs

There’s no one recipe for success as every woman’s journey is unique, which is what makes entrepreneurship so interesting and dynamic. 

But drawing on my own experience and learnings I’d say make sure that you rest your ladder against the right wall, that way when you get to the top of the wall you will be happy with the view. And then don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t.  If you want to and you work for it you absolutely can. 

Business can be brutal and while you should never be a pushover, don’t underestimate the power of kindness – in life and in business. “Bounceability” is also a superpower that women are particularly good at harnessing – simply the ability to “bounce back” from, well, anything. Remember everyone makes mistakes and has hard times but  it’s the people that stand up the fastest after that mistake or hard time who succeed.

Lastly, believe in yourself. It may be a cliché but I’ve seen time and again the unstoppable power of a woman who believes in her own ability.

Michelle Cohen is an experienced property professional and the principal of Leapfrog Johannesburg North East,  a franchise of the Leapfrog Property Group. She manages a team of more than 20 agents and believes in actively supporting and mentoring them to reach their professional and financial potential.

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