Can You Have It All?
Papapreneur Joel S. Abad, Jr.'s Journey to Success, Impact, and Fatherly Bliss
“Who knows, maybe one day we'll be flying side by side, living out our shared dream of conquering the skies. Fly high and keep aiming for the clouds!”
Step into a world where business acumen meets fatherly love. Today, on this special Father's Day blog post, we present to you the story of the ultimate Papapreneur, Joel S. Abad, Jr.
Picture this: a life where you can pursue your dreams, make a positive impact, and still have plenty of quality time with your family.
Intrigued? Well, get ready to be inspired as we dive into the world of Joel S. Abad, Jr., the dad entrepreneur who cracked the code to building a successful business while cherishing the joys of fatherhood.
Joel's story is a testament to the power of determination, resilience, and finding the perfect balance between work and family. Witness how being a dad transformed his entrepreneurial journey, and discover the valuable lessons he learned along the way.
So, grab your favorite mug of coffee (or, if you're like Joel, your superhero cape), and let's embark on this captivating adventure of entrepreneurship and fatherly love!
Inspiration from Family and the Desire for Fulfillment
What inspired you to start your own business, and how has being a dad influenced the way you approach your work?
Joel: “I witnessed the unwavering dedication of my papa as he selflessly invested countless years working abroad, sacrificing precious moments with his family to ensure our needs were met. Though his efforts granted us convenience and a modest level of comfort, they couldn't fulfill the essence of what truly matters: the irreplaceable bond of togetherness and the support we could have offered one another while still attending to our daily necessities. Consequently, this experience led me to an important realization—I aspire for a future beyond being an employee indefinitely.
The inspiration to start my own business stemmed from a combination of factors. Firstly, witnessing my father's sacrifices and the longing for more meaningful family connections sparked a desire within me to create a lifestyle that prioritizes both personal and professional fulfillment. Additionally, I recognized the potential for entrepreneurship to provide not only financial independence but also the freedom to pursue my passions and make a positive impact on others. Becoming a papa has significantly influenced my approach to work. Parenthood has instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility and the desire to set an example for my children. I strive to create a work environment that aligns with my family values, fostering a healthy work-life balance and prioritizing quality time spent with loved ones. As a father, I've learned the importance of leading with empathy, patience, and resilience. These qualities guide my interactions with colleagues, clients, and partners, enabling me to build meaningful relationships and nurture a supportive work culture. Moreover, being a father has given me a unique perspective on the needs and aspirations of families. It has heightened my awareness of the challenges they face and fuels my drive to develop products or services that cater to those needs. By empathizing with the experiences of parents and families, I aim to create solutions that truly enhance their lives and contribute to their well-being. Overall, the combination of my entrepreneurial spirit and the influence of fatherhood has shaped my approach to work, motivating me to build a successful business while prioritizing the values of family, purpose, and positive impact.”
Strategies for Time Management and Work-Life Balance
How do you manage your time and find a balance between being a dad and running your business? Any tips or strategies that have worked well for you?
Joel: “I am the type of person who wants to have fun while working. I do take my job seriously but I also make sure I enjoy the ride. My Bugbusters family, my Evolve XT family, and my BNI family know this as a fact. Below are some suggestions I have in response to the question. Managing time and balancing fatherhood with running a business can be a real juggling act. 1. Be the boss of your schedule: Set boundaries like a pro. Let your team and family know when it's Daddy Time and when it's Business Time. It's like being a superhero with an "unavailable" cape and more importantly not needing to wear my pants first before putting on my underwear. 2. Master the art of delegation: Just like a magician, wave your wand (or phone) and delegate tasks that can be handled by others. TRUST YOUR PEOPLE! You don't have to be a one-person circus – let others handle the lion's share! 3. Schedule playdates for yourself: Remember, self-care is key. Take breaks to recharge and pursue hobbies. It's like giving yourself permission to enjoy recess. WE, and I mean I need it too! "Ma'am may I go out?" 4. Practice the power of presence: When you're with your family, be fully present and embrace your role as the Chief Fun Officer. No multitasking allowed – save that for your business. Your undivided attention is like sprinkling fairy dust on your family time.
5. Use tech wisely: Technology can be both a blessing and a curse. Embrace the power of automation and efficient tools to streamline your work. Just don't let technology become the evil villain stealing your time with family. Keep that digital monster in check! This also sets an example especially kids nowadays spend more time on their phone than anything else. My kids included huhuhu 6. Laugh it off: Remember, life is a circus, and you're the ringmaster. Embrace the chaos and find the humor in the balancing act. Laughter is the best way to keep your sanity intact. As the saying goes, "Laughter is the best medicine". Have that will to not take things too seriously because.....ip ders a will, ders water. So, strap on your multitasking cape, unleash your inner magician, and enjoy the ride of being a dad and entrepreneur. With a sprinkle of humor, you'll master the art of balancing work and family, all while keeping the circus of life running smoothly! Enjoy!!!”
Overcoming Challenges as a Dad Entrepreneur
What were the biggest challenges you faced as a dad entrepreneur, and how did you overcome them?
Joel: “As a papapreneur, I encountered various challenges along my journey. Here are a few of the biggest hurdles I faced and how I overcame them: 1. Time management crunch: Balancing the demands of business and family life can feel like a tightrope walk. To overcome this challenge, I embraced effective time management techniques. I prioritized tasks, set realistic deadlines, and created a schedule that allowed dedicated time for both work and family. By being disciplined with my time and avoiding unnecessary distractions, I maximized productivity in both realms. 2. Guilt and self-doubt: There were moments when guilt crept in, making me question whether I was giving enough attention to my children or my business. To combat this, I shifted my mindset. I reminded myself that being an entrepreneur provided unique opportunities for my family's future and that I was setting a positive example by pursuing my dreams. I learned to let go of unrealistic expectations and embraced the idea that being present and making quality time count mattered more than the quantity of time spent. 3. Financial uncertainties: Entrepreneurship often involves financial risks and uncertainties. As a father responsible for providing for my family, this added pressure could be overwhelming. To address this challenge, I carefully planned my finances, created a budget, and established emergency funds. I also sought advice from mentors and professionals who guided me in making sound financial decisions. By being proactive and strategic, I mitigated financial stress and on a day-to-day basis try to create a stable foundation for my family's well-being. 4. Overcoming isolation: Entrepreneurship can sometimes feel lonely, as the responsibilities and challenges often fall on your shoulders. To overcome this sense of isolation, I actively sought support from like-minded entrepreneurs and joined BUSINESS NETWORK INTERNATIONAL (BNI). Connecting with others facing similar situations provided invaluable emotional support, advice, and opportunities for collaboration. Building a support network not only alleviated feelings of isolation but also opened doors to new ideas and partnerships. 5. Maintaining work-life harmony: Achieving a harmonious integration of work and family life was an ongoing challenge. To address this, I involved my family in the business journey. My siblings and I with our individual families created a family sports event and management business called Evolve XT Management Corporation. It is through this that I can share my successes and failures, and actively sought their input and feedback. By involving them, I created a sense of ownership and togetherness. I also prioritized regular family activities and ensured dedicated quality time with my family. By being intentional about maintaining a healthy work-life balance, I nurtured strong relationships and created cherished memories. Facing these challenges required resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to learn and grow. Through determination, effective planning, seeking support, and maintaining a positive mindset, I overcame obstacles, strengthened my bond with my family, and built a successful business that aligned with my values as a father.”
Memorable Experience: Fulfilling a Shared Dream
Can you share a memorable experience that stands out to you as both a dad and an entrepreneur? What valuable lessons did you learn from that experience?
Joel: “I always had this lofty dream of soaring through the skies as a pilot. But reality set in, and I tucked that dream away, knowing my parents couldn't afford to send me to pilot school. Then, out of the blue, my daughter comes up to me one day and declares she wants to be a pilot. Talk about déjà vu! Suddenly, my old aspirations came rushing back, but I faced the same financial hurdle. However, being an entrepreneur has instilled in me a never-back-down attitude. I knew I had to find a way to make my daughter's dreams take flight, quite literally. So, like a determined BDO (Business Dad Overcoming), I put on my thinking cap, and similar to BDO (the bank) I too found a way. I enrolled her in the next best thing to being a pilot—aircraft mechanics. It's like becoming the doctor for airplanes! This way, she could gain invaluable knowledge about the intricacies of aircraft and lay a solid foundation for her future pilot licenses. And guess what? She's already flown a Cessna over the beautiful island and sea of Cebu province (with proper supervision, of course). Take that, younger me! To make a long story short, my daughter has successfully completed her first year as an aircraft mechanic, and she's got three more exciting years to go. Keep pushing, anak! Your dreams are within reach, and I'll be cheering you on from the ground. Who knows, maybe one day we'll be flying side by side, living out our shared dream of conquering the skies. Fly high and keep aiming for the clouds!”
Advice for Dad Entrepreneurs and Fathers Starting a Business
What advice would you give to other dad entrepreneurs as well as to fathers who want to start their own business?
Joel: To my fellow dad entrepreneurs and fathers aspiring to start their own businesses, here's some valuable advice: 1. Embrace the journey: Entrepreneurship and fatherhood both come with their fair share of ups and downs. Embrace the journey and be prepared for the challenges ahead. Stay resilient, adapt to changes, and view obstacles as opportunities for growth. Remember, it's not just about the destination but also the adventure along the way. 2. Prioritize family values: As you embark on your entrepreneurial journey, always keep your family values at the forefront. Let these values guide your decisions, actions, and the way you interact with others. Balancing work and family can be a delicate act, so ensure your business aligns with your core beliefs and allows you to create a positive impact on both fronts. 3. Set realistic expectations: Starting a business requires dedication, time, and hard work. Be prepared to invest significant effort and understand that it may take time to achieve desired results. Set realistic expectations for yourself and communicate them with your family. Strive for progress rather than perfection and celebrate every milestone along the way. 4. Seek support and build a network: Surround yourself with like-minded individuals who understand the challenges of being a dad entrepreneur. Seek support from mentors, join entrepreneurial communities, and establish a network of peers who can offer guidance and encouragement. Collaboration and learning from others' experiences can be invaluable on your journey. 5. Find work-life integration: Instead of striving for a perfect work-life balance, focus on finding work-life integration. Integrate your work and family life in a way that allows you to be present and engaged in both areas. Prioritize quality time with your children, establish boundaries, and create a schedule that accommodates your family's needs. 6. Practice self-care: Taking care of yourself is crucial. As a dad and entrepreneur, it's easy to neglect self-care while juggling multiple responsibilities. Prioritize your physical and mental well-being, and make time for activities that recharge and energize you. Remember, a healthy and happy you are essential for effectively managing both your family and business. 7. Be flexible and adaptable: The path of entrepreneurship is often unpredictable. Be open to adapting your plans and strategies as circumstances evolve. Flexibility is key in finding innovative solutions and seizing opportunities that arise. Embrace change with an open mind and learn from every experience. 8. Lead by example: As a father and entrepreneur, you have a unique opportunity to lead by example for your children. Demonstrate perseverance, integrity, and a strong work ethic. Show them that pursuing their dreams and passions is possible with determination and hard work. Your actions will inspire and leave a lasting impact on their lives.
9. Have fun....nuff said😁 Remember, being a dad and an entrepreneur is a beautiful balancing act. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the victories, and cherish the moments with your family. With passion, perseverance, and a dash of humor, you can build a successful business while nurturing a loving and supportive family environment.”
Conclusion
Fellow dad entrepreneurs and aspiring business-savvy fathers, the time is now to unleash your inner papapreneur! Joel's inspiring journey teaches us that with the right mindset, dedication, and support, we can build thriving businesses without sacrificing the precious moments with our loved ones.
So, take that leap of faith, pursue your entrepreneurial dreams, and be the role model your children deserve. Keep in mind that it's not just about the financial success; it's about creating a legacy, a life of purpose, and making memories that will last a lifetime.
But we're not done yet!
Let's show our support for Joel and his incredible businesses!
"Bugbusters Integrated Pest Management: Say Goodbye to Unwanted Guests and Reclaim Your Space!”
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"Evolve XT Management Corporation: Elevate Your Sporting Journey with Passionate Expertise!”
Passionate about sports? Evolve XT Management Corporation is your go-to source for all things sports-related. They offer a diverse range of services and products designed to enhance your sporting experience. From organizing sports events like leagues, clinics, and seminars to providing evaluations, coaching, athlete management, and merchandising, they’ve got you covered. Join them in the exciting world of sports and let them help you evolve and excel in your athletic endeavors.
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Evolve XT Management Corporation Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092206336236&mibextid=ZbWKwL
Get ready to embrace the papapreneur spirit and build a life that's not only successful but also deeply fulfilling.
Your dreams and your family are waiting for you. It's time to make them both soar to new heights!
Happy Father’s Day!
To all the incredible dads out there, The ABBA Initiative wants to express our heartfelt appreciation for the love, dedication, and support you provide to your families. You are the guiding light, the provider, the role model, and the source of unwavering strength for your children.
On this special day, we want to celebrate your tireless efforts, sacrifices, and the immeasurable impact you have on your children's lives. Whether you're a biological father, stepfather, adoptive father, or father figure, your love and presence make a profound difference.
Thank you for being there to listen, to teach, to guide, and to lend a helping hand. Your unconditional love and unwavering support create a nurturing environment where your children can grow, learn, and thrive.
Today, we acknowledge and celebrate your role as not only a father but also as a mentor, friend, and hero. Your strength, wisdom, and compassion inspire us all.
May this Father's Day be filled with joy, laughter, and precious moments with your loved ones. Take this time to relax, reflect, and cherish the beautiful journey of fatherhood.
Happy Father's Day to all the remarkable dads out there. You are appreciated, admired, and loved beyond measure. Enjoy your special day!