One of my favorite things about publishing Macaroni Kid Cleveland East is the chance to connect with other parents in our community. Often times these connections inspire me and remind me of the ability of one person to make a difference. It is with this in mind that I launch a new article series called Parent with a Purpose. My hope is to introduce you to some amazing parents living right in our communities who not only are doing unique and wonderful things but also deserve to have some attention brought to their mission.
This is where YOU come in! Do you know someone who fits the Parent with a Purpose bill? Maybe it's your neighbor, friend, child's teacher - send them our way! All you have to do is email me their name, email address and why you think they're perfect for a Parent with a Purpose feature and I'll take it from there! jennys@macaronikid.com
Today we celebrate: Sonali Morri, owner of Goldfish Swim School Cleveland East and Cleveland West. Watch your mail, Sonali. You will soon find a token of celebration from me!
1. What is your MISSION? What do you want to accomplish? I never really thought about my mission in life. When I asked my children, they said, "To sleep!" They have a point. Being a parent and a business owner is exhausting yet fun. I guess my mission would be to live life to the fullest, laugh along the way, love everything you do and encourage others to do the same.
2. What inspired/encouraged you to open the swim schools? My husband always wanted to start a business and I thought it was a great idea. We loved Goldfish since it embodied something very important to us. We wanted to bring a new concept to Cleveland that would be a positive, life-changing experience for families.
3. How did your life before children influence the parent you are today? (Work, experiences) What part do your children play in your current mission? My parents influenced who I am today. My dad taught me to work hard for what you want to achieve but to always maintain a strong moral compass. My mom taught me not to sweat the small stuff. I used to worry about every detail growing up. She taught me how to handle situations with humor versus stressing out and exploding. They both encouraged me in everything I did no matter the trepidation they had. I know they weren't fans of me going to college in another state and then moving to New York City at the age of 21, but they supported and trusted me. The independence they afforded me stuck and has made me who I am today. I’ve passed that along to my children as well. As a result, they worked alongside their father and me to launch our business. They listen intently when we discuss work situations and even weigh in with questions and opinions. They’ve also had to grow up a little faster than any parent would want. We are so busy that they’ve had to master many things on their own such as cooking, laundry and more. Kids also keep you humble and never let you lose sight of what’s important. If I’m on my phone a little too long, I get a not-so-subtle reminder from my daughter that it’s time to focus on family.
4. What lessons/values are you learning through this process? What lessons/values do you hope your kids are learning? I value spending time together as a family more than ever. Some of my favorite moments are when we go out to dinner (no cell phones allowed) and talk about school, politics, sports and other things. I hope my kids recognize the importance of a tight family unit and grow up to be strong, independent, compassionate adults.
5. What do you do to take care of yourself and how do you make time to do it? I hit the gym. I have to go at 5:30 a.m. -- before my day starts -- to fit it in. If I feel good, my outlook stays positive. I was also given a gift certificate by my family for a massage about three years ago. Someday, I will use it!
6. What steps can other families take to move their families in the direction you have taken yours? I’m not sure which direction we’re going in or if anyone in their right mind will want to follow. However, if you want to start a business, do it. I know it’s daunting, but talk to others for insight and inspiration. Life’s too short to work a job you’re not passionate about doing.
7. Is there anything else you would like to add? I think the most important thing a parent can give their child outside of unconditional love is independence. The hardest thing to do as a parent is to not always protect or insulate your child. Let them fail. Give them coping skills. Let them dust themselves off and start again. They'll be stronger for it and more successful in the future if you’re not hovering over them. Just maintain a close distance. 😄
I’d also like to thank the Cleveland community for welcoming our business and sharing their experiences with others. The support we’ve received from families is incredible. We have a great team who care so much about the children and are passionate about teaching swim lessons. I absolutely love what we do and hope that it shows.
