Rediscovering the Balance Between Success and Softness

In this episode of the Soul and Success Podcast, I share the incredible journey of the past two years—a journey filled with life-changing decisions, unexpected challenges, and essential lessons. From moving to Costa Rica to embrace a “soft life” to managing my business through a high-risk pregnancy and a challenging transition back to the United States, I’ve learned the importance of both resilience and self-compassion.

For those who run their own businesses, lead teams, or juggle multiple roles in life, my story serves as a reminder that growth doesn’t always mean expanding outward; sometimes, it’s about learning to slow down, trust yourself, and build a business that sustains itself even when life demands your focus elsewhere. Here’s a closer look at what I’ve learned along the way.

1. Pursuing a “Soft Life” and Learning to Slow Down

The Move to Costa Rica and the Dream of a Slower Pace

Nearly two years ago, I made the big decision to move to Costa Rica. At the time, I was running a successful marketing agency, but the constant hustle had left me burnt out. So, I stepped back, closed down my $100,000-a-month agency, and set out to pursue a slower, more fulfilling lifestyle as a fractional marketing director for a few select clients. In Costa Rica, I found peace, slowing down to enjoy beach weekends with my daughter and reconnecting with nature.

The “soft life” was a lesson in finding joy in simplicity. However, while I was busy creating a balanced life, I hadn’t fully anticipated the unexpected challenges that would soon come my way.

2. Facing the Unexpected: A High-Risk Pregnancy and a Return to the U.S.

Pregnancy Challenges and Health Complications

Shortly after my husband joined me in Costa Rica, we learned we were expecting. This pregnancy, however, was different from my first. Daily nausea and exhaustion soon progressed into severe pelvic pain by my fourth month, leading my doctor to recommend a C-section. This unexpected turn raised a difficult question: should we stay in Costa Rica, or return to the United States for better support?

Ultimately, we decided to return to the U.S., but things didn’t go as planned. I struggled to find a medical team willing to take me on that late in my pregnancy due to a lack of insurance. The process was emotionally draining, and I felt incredibly isolated. As entrepreneurs, we often feel pressure to push through hard times, but my experience taught me the importance of self-compassion and recognizing when it’s time to step back and regroup.

3. Building a Business That Thrives in Seasons of Slowness

The Importance of Having Resilient Systems

Throughout this journey, one lesson became clear: the need for sustainable systems that allow a business to thrive, even when the unexpected happens. Business systems should support steady revenue, marketing, and growth, even if life forces you to step back. During my pregnancy, I launched webinars, managed coaching programs, and worked with clients—all while feeling stretched thin.

This experience led me to ask, Do you have systems in place that allow your business to run smoothly when you can’t be there? Sustainable processes create freedom and protect your business from the unpredictability of life. I encourage my clients to focus on these foundational strategies to prepare for any season life might bring.

4. Self-Trust and Decision-Making in Business

Strengthening Self-Trust Amidst External Pressures

Navigating multiple roles—entrepreneur, mother, and wife—taught me the power of self-trust. Throughout my career, I’ve had moments where I doubted my decisions, feeling influenced by external voices, whether from family, colleagues, or societal expectations. Over time, however, I’ve learned to trust my instincts.

Self-trust in business isn’t easy, especially when faced with challenges. Decision fatigue is real. I’ve found strategies like scheduling decision-making sessions, setting clear boundaries, and recognizing early signs of burnout to be immensely helpful. Building self-trust doesn’t just empower you; it strengthens your business, enabling you to make clear-headed choices that align with your vision.

5. The Power of Seasons: Embracing Both Growth and Slowness

Recognizing and Accepting Different Seasons in Life

I believe there are seasons for both growth and slowness, and each has its own purpose. Moving to Costa Rica was a season of slowness and simplicity, while my return to the U.S. has been marked by growth and resilience. Learning to recognize and honor each season has been key to finding balance and maintaining harmony between my personal and professional life.

Growth isn’t always glamorous. In fact, it can be uncomfortable and challenging. But sometimes, life (or even faith) places us in moments of transformation to prepare us for something greater. As an entrepreneur, learning to adapt and find balance during both growth and softness is invaluable.

6. Practical Tips for Navigating Change and Building Resilience in Business

Implementing Systems for Sustainable Growth and Protecting Your Well-being

Here are some strategies I’ve learned to help sustain my business through all seasons:

• Create Resilient Systems: Set up automated marketing and revenue-generating processes that keep your business running smoothly during times of personal or family emergencies.
• Build a Support Network: Rely on mentors, family, or close friends who can offer guidance and support during challenging times.
• Establish Clear Boundaries: Block off specific times for decision-making or important tasks, and stick to them. Scheduling big meetings or key decisions early in the week can help you maintain clarity and avoid burnout.
• Recognize the Signs of Burnout: Notice when simple requests or tasks feel overwhelming, and take this as a sign to step back. Naps, meditation, or short breaks can be powerful tools for resetting your mental energy.
• Accept Seasons of Growth and Slowness: Embrace the different seasons of life, knowing that each one has a purpose. Slowness and growth are both essential to your journey.

Embracing Transformation on Your Own Terms

My story is one of transformation, resilience, and embracing both the highs and lows of life and business. From the shores of Costa Rica to the challenges of a high-risk pregnancy, I’ve learned that success isn’t always defined by constant growth or outward expansion. Instead, it’s about building a sustainable, resilient business that supports you through all of life’s seasons.

To fellow entrepreneurs, leaders, and multitasking moms—let this be a reminder to find joy in the journey, trust yourself, and build a business that can thrive no matter what life throws your way.

If you’d like to connect or share your own experiences, reach out via email at support@emelyroman.com, follow me on Instagram, or tune in to my podcast for more on navigating life’s seasons with grace. Let’s continue this journey of growth, resilience, and balance together.