Episode #7
In this episode, I dive into a conversation with Michael Barlow, a dedicated father, husband, and entrepreneur focused on men's mental health. Michael shares his journey of founding the Men's Support Network, emphasizing the significance of initiating honest conversations around mental health for men.
How to connect with Michael:
Fast Track Your Personal Growth
"I've tried to embrace the vulnerability because I feel like without being authentic, the message doesn't feel that real and even sometimes over polished efforts feel less real."
- Michael Barlow
Introduction:
In today's fast-paced world, finding genuine connections and maintaining a work-life balance can often seem like an uphill battle, especially for introverts and aspiring entrepreneurs.
In a recent episode of the Invisible Marketer podcast, Michael, the creator of the Men's Support Network, shared invaluable insights into how he navigates these challenges. His strategies and experiences offer a beacon for many looking to harness their passions and create a fulfilling life.
1. Embrace Vulnerability in Communication:
Michael underscores the significance of vulnerability in building deep connections: "I've tried to embrace the vulnerability because I feel like without being authentic, the message doesn't feel real." This approach is particularly impactful in settings where individuals struggle to open up.
Actionable Tip:
Foster environments where people feel safe to share their experiences without judgment. This could be as simple as starting meetings with personal check-ins or hosting regular informal gatherings.
2. Leveraging Introversion as a Strength:
The conversation between Michael and Coena sheds light on the advantages of introversion. "Being an introvert is not so bad... you thrive in one-on-one settings," Coena discovers. This strength is pivotal in scenarios requiring thoughtful dialogue.
Actionable Tip:
Seek out roles or create opportunities that maximize your ability for deep, focused interactions, such as mentorship roles or specialized team projects.
3. Prioritize Work-Life Balance:
For Michael, balancing his roles across different facets of his life is crucial. He expresses, "My kids, if I get home at six, they're going to bed in just about two and a half hours... I need to make sure they know that they matter."
Actionable Tip:
Clearly define what times are reserved for work and family. It might be beneficial to communicate these boundaries to your colleagues and family to help them support your schedule.
4. Incorporate Passion into Your Work:
Passion is the fuel that drives Michael's endeavors. He shares, "It's really important for me to not replace therapy or any mental health service, but just get the conversation started for people who probably otherwise would not start the conversation."
Actionable Tip:
Regularly reflect on what aspects of your work excite you and try to integrate more of these elements into your daily responsibilities. This could mean proposing projects that align closely with your interests.
5. Manage Self-Doubt:
Navigating self-doubt is a common challenge. Michael discusses how he handles this, "I've had to balance... trusting myself. I do have expertise. I have an awful lot of experience in this category."
Actionable Tip:
Build a 'success portfolio'—a collection of positive feedback, accomplishments, and moments when you felt proud of your work. Review this whenever doubts creep in.
6. Transition to Entrepreneurship Gradually:
Michael’s strategy for a gradual shift to full-time entrepreneurship is insightful. "That's the goal of entrepreneurship... to build something to where I am," he explains, highlighting the importance of a stable transition.
Actionable Tip:
Start with small, manageable projects that can grow over time. This helps in maintaining financial stability while exploring new opportunities.
7. Stay Flexible and Responsive:
Adaptability is crucial in Michael's approach. He reflects on the need to be responsive, "I think sometimes people cower behind systems... I'm like, are you going to HR because it's an injustice or because you're actually scared to have the conversation?"
Actionable Tip:
Be open to feedback and willing to make adjustments. This not only helps in personal growth but also in aligning better with the needs of your community or customers.
Final Thoughts:
Michael's journey is a testament to the power of passion, authenticity, and resilience in both personal and professional realms. As we navigate our paths, let us take a leaf out of his book to foster environments of openness, engage deeply with our work, and integrate our true selves into everything we do. By doing so, we not only enhance our own lives but also enrich those around us.
Remember, in the words of Michael, "your passion matters... and if you feel like you've lost them, make sure that you can add your passions to your life."