Enlightened Entrepreneurs: Bethanne Kronick
“The ability to simplify means to eliminate the unnecessary so that the necessary may speak.” -Hans Hofmann
The SBS Series is back! And this time there is a bit of a twist…In addition to “Small Business Success Stories” we will also be featuring “Enlightened Entrepreneurs” and “Community Connectors”. These are people who are leaders in their business, community or even their family. The common thread that connects this group is the intention they each carry to better the world around them. Each week we will be highlighting some of these amazing people who are raising the tide for all of us, starting with today’s guest– Bethanne Kronick!
Bethanne began her productivity coaching business, SIMPLIFY!, to help people create more time & energy and live with less stress. She offers classes and workshops to businesses and corporations on a variety of topics revolving around focus, organization and productivity. Bethanne is also a keynote speaker and presenter and is widely known to deeply inspire and motivate her audiences.
Q. What inspired you to begin your business?
A. After experiencing a major life-changing event in 1993 (my first husband was killed in a car accident), I decided to embarque in a new direction. I took an inventory of my skills and interests. I also took the opportunity to evaluate my life in terms of how I used my time. Knowing how precious time is, it made me realize there was a need to help people understand the necessity of making good decisions about how we spend our time. In addition, I’ve been a teacher all my life, and organizing is something I am a natural at. My company, SIMPLIFY! was founded in 2002 to help people in the areas of productivity and organization. Through my work, I empower people to learn new habits and behaviors so their lives reflect what’s truly important to them.
Q. What does true ‘success’ mean to you, in business and in life?
A. I actually have a book that was just published that I co-authored called “Mastering the Art of Success.” In it I describe success as attaining something or achieving a goal. It’s important to me, though, to recognize that once the goal or ambition is reached and success is attained, it doesn’t mean it’s done or over—it’s really just beginning. I believe that success is a journey—it’s a process, not a destination or an end. I love to learn and grow. Achieving success is really the beginning of the next goal or aspiration I have in my sights. The most valuable aspect of success, whether in business or life, is the lessons that are learned along the way.
Q. What is your favorite part of what you do?
A. I absolutely love helping people and making a difference in their lives. As I mentioned, having been a teacher all my life, being able to impart information and wisdom to improve people’s lives brings me so much satisfaction. People apply the information they learn to improve the quality of their lives not only at work but also in life!
Q. If there was one message you could share with the world what would it be?
A. Live life passionately! Make the most of every second you have! Even if it’s sitting and doing nothing, appreciate every ounce of that still time. Time is precious—it’s irreplaceable. It’s our choice what we do with it. Make good choices as we only have one chance with how we use it.
A. My dad has always been my greatest role model. He’s inspired me since I was young. My dad was an amazing man—he was one of the most patient and humble people I have ever known. He had such tremendous respect for people and was so non-judgemental. And of course he was organized and a phenomenal planner! My dad taught me to love, the joy of being loved, and about giving unconditionally. He loved challenges and was a successful man who blazed his own trail. I learned from him that you can do anything you put your mind to. His example of courage and tenacity has been a huge driving force in the things I have accomplished in my life and my business.
Q. What advice would you give to those who want to pursue their passion but might be afraid to try?
A. Create a plan for what you want to do. Break it down into small steps. Create a team, YOUR team, of “trusted advisors” to partner with you so you don’t have to know it all! These can be friends, family members, business associates, coaches, legal advisors, spiritual advisors, etc. Look to the people on your team to advise you, teach you, support you and encourage you. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Q. Is there a book, quote, piece of music etc that uplifts and inspires you?
A. Although sometimes I LOVE rocking out to music, and I have several favorite quotes, what inspires me most is getting out in the fresh air! The times when I am most inspired and creative is when I am outside moving—whether that’s in my boat, on my bike, walking in the woods, on my skiis… my mind just soars with positive thoughts and inspiration!
Q: What are three things that make you really happy? 
1. First and foremost: being able to LOVE: my friends and family, my work, my clients, helping people, the sport of rowing, the outdoors… loving LIFE!
2. Doing healthy activities that make my mind and body feel good—ROWING!
3. A BIG bowl of coffee ice cream!! : )
Thank you to Bethanne for sharing your warmth, insights and wisdom with us!
Please leave your comments below and join us throughout this success series. We’ll be back next month with another “Enlightened Entrepreneur”…
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