We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Alexandra Atlanova a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Alexandra, thanks for joining us today. Let’s jump right into something we’re very focused on here – improving our ability to make decisions. Everyday, we’re faced with decisions that can impact the future of our careers, businesses, relationships and more and so one of the most impactful areas for personal development, in our view, is decision-making. Can you talk to us about how you developed or improved your decision-making skills?
It was a long journey… but in the end I understood how it really works and I want to share my story with you.
In March 2020 (when Fluffy Llama LLC was just formed), at the cusp of a global pandemic, I made a decision that would shape my journey as a single mother and entrepreneur. It was a decision driven not by logic, but by the unwavering voice of my heart. Little did I know that it would become a testament to the power of intuition in the face of adversity.
In the midst of uncertainty, I found the house of my dreams, the perfect setting for my first Family Daycare. I signed the lease with anticipation, only to have the world thrown into chaos by the arrival of Covid-19. Fear and doubt loomed large, and well-meaning friends advised me to postpone my dream. After all, businesses were closing, and the future looked grim.
My logical mind echoed these concerns. It made sense to wait for better times, when the situation cleared up and the general quarantine was lifted. With offices closed, even the standard inspection needed for a license seemed impossible. But my heart had a different story to tell. It urged me to press on, assuring me that success lay ahead.
In defiance of reason, I chose to continue despite the odds. The challenges were immense; even ordering furniture online became a waiting game, with deliveries taking more than a month. Undeterred, I persuaded the authorities to conduct inspections via Zoom, and the fire inspector visited my vacant house.
Four months of unwavering effort paid off when I received my childcare license. Enrolling children in my daycare happened swiftly, and success followed suit. It became clear that my decisions, guided by the heart rather than the mind or fear of failure, were the keys to my progress.
Since that pivotal moment, I’ve remained steadfast in listening to my intuition and following the path it lights. This has proven to be my compass through uncharted territories, ensuring that my choices are guided by authenticity and passion rather than fear.
My journey is a testament to the profound impact of trusting intuition. It’s a reminder that, in times of uncertainty, the heart often knows the way when logic falters. When faced with choices that defy conventional wisdom, I encourage you to embrace the whispers of your inner voice. It may lead you on a journey of unexpected rewards and the realization that, even in the face of the unknown, the heart can be the most reliable guide.
This article reflects my personal odyssey as a single mother and entrepreneur, a journey that has shown me the incredible power of heart-centered decision-making in navigating life’s challenges.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
In the heart of my journey as an owner of Fluffy Llama LLC, I can say – It’s more than just a business; it’s a testament to the power of following one’s heart and intuition, even when the odds seem stacked against you.
Fluffy Llama LLC is not your typical childcare. It’s a nurturing environment where little minds and hearts are encouraged to flourish. We offer more than just childcare; we provide a loving, educational, and innovative space where children can thrive and explore their boundless potential.
What excites me most about Fluffy Llama LLC is our commitment to holistic child development. We don’t just babysit; we engage. We’ve crafted a unique and innovative learning program designed to nurture not only the intellect but also the emotional, social, and creative dimensions of each child.
Our approach is deeply rooted in play-based learning, where children are encouraged to explore, create, and learn at their own pace. It’s about fostering a love for learning that will stay with them throughout their lives.
Our goal is not just to create ideal conditions for the development of a child, but also to create a community of parents who will support each other both in work and in everyday matters. Because we are all like a family, we raise your children and they trust us. I want parents to also trust us and participate in this process. With their support and participation in our program, we can together create a friendly and caring team that will always come to your aid in difficult times in life (whether it’s looking for a new job or promoting your business). We are Family! Constant communication and support of each other will lead us to growth. Not only children, but also their parents. Let’s grow and develop together!
Our journey hasn’t been without its challenges. From the uncertainty of starting during a global pandemic to navigating the intricacies of childcare regulations, Fluffy Llama LLC has weathered storms. But it’s precisely these challenges that have made us stronger and more adaptable.
I’m proud to share that we’ve not only survived but thrived. We’ve expanded our offerings, incorporated technology into our curriculum, and welcomed an ever-growing community of families who believe in our mission.
As we look to the future, Fluffy Llama LLC is poised for even greater things. We’re exploring opportunities for expansion to reach more families in need of quality childcare and early education. Our commitment to innovation remains unwavering, and we have exciting new programs and services on the horizon.
In closing, Fluffy Llama LLC isn’t just a Family Daycare; it’s a testament to the power of intuition, passion, and perseverance. I’m excited about the journey ahead, as we continue to shape the futures of the little ones in our care and make a meaningful impact on the world. Thank you for being part of our story!
Stay tuned for our upcoming events and expansions as we continue to embark on this incredible journey of nurturing young minds and hearts!
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
As I reflect on the path that led me to where I am today, I can’t help but recognize three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that have been the most impactful in my journey as an entrepreneur. These pillars have not only shaped my professional success but also my personal growth. Here they are, along with advice for those embarking on their own journeys:
1. Resilience:
Why it matters: In the ever-changing landscape of life and business, resilience has been my unwavering companion. It’s the ability to bounce back from setbacks, adapt to unforeseen challenges, and keep moving forward, even when the odds seem insurmountable.
Advice: Embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth. Understand that adversity is an integral part of any journey. Cultivate a mindset that views challenges as stepping stones, not roadblocks. Surround yourself with a support network that uplifts and encourages you during tough times. Remember, resilience isn’t just about enduring; it’s about thriving in the face of adversity.
2. Intuition:
Why it matters: Trusting my intuition has been the compass guiding me through uncharted territories. It’s the ability to listen to that inner voice, even when logic suggests a different path. Intuition has allowed me to make decisions that felt right deep down, even if they defied conventional wisdom.
Advice: Learn to listen to your inner voice. It’s often drowned out by external noise, but it’s a powerful guide. Practice mindfulness and self-awareness to strengthen your connection with your intuition. When faced with a decision, take a moment to reflect on how it feels in your heart. It may not always lead to the easiest path, but it often leads to the most authentic one.
3. Community and Collaboration:
Why it matters: Building a supportive community and collaborating with like-minded individuals has been instrumental in my journey. No one succeeds in isolation, and the power of a strong network cannot be overstated. It’s not just about what you know; it’s about who you know and how you can collectively achieve more.
Advice: Invest time in building meaningful relationships. Seek out mentors, peers, and collaborators who share your passion and values. Be open to learning from others and offering your knowledge in return. Remember that success is often a collective effort. When you lift others, they will lift you in return. Building a supportive community is not just about what you can gain but also about what you can give.
Conclusion:
As you embark on your own journey, remember that resilience, intuition, and community are not static qualities but evolving ones. Cultivate them over time, and you’ll find that they will serve as your pillars of strength. Embrace setbacks, trust your inner voice, and build connections with others who share your vision. These qualities will not only help you succeed professionally but also enrich your personal journey.
Who is your ideal client or what sort of characteristics would make someone an ideal client for you?
At Fluffy Llama Family Daycare, our ideal clients are those who embody the spirit of community, kindness, and openness. While we warmly welcome all families, certain characteristics make someone an ideal client in our eyes.
Openness and Honesty:
Ideal clients are open and honest, creating a foundation of trust that enriches our partnership.
Love in Their Hearts:
We cherish individuals who carry love not just for their children but for our entire community.
Kindness and Compassion:
Our ideal clients spread kindness and compassion, making our space warm and nurturing.
Desire for Community:
They understand the value of a supportive community, actively contributing to its growth.
In essence, our ideal clients share our values, creating a harmonious environment where children thrive, families flourish, and bonds grow stronger every day.
I always welcome and accept people who are open, honest, and have love in their hearts. People who are kind and wish everyone around them the same kindness and love will always find their companion and the support of others.
If this resonates with you, we look forward to welcoming you into the Fluffy Llama Family, where your journey becomes our journey, and your dreams become our shared aspirations.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.fluffy-llama.com/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/fluffy.llama.daycare
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandraatlanova/
Image Credits
Katerina Erofeeva
