Can you be a businessman and raise a child at the same time without losing your mind? Being a parent and starting a company at the same time is like trying to control two fast-moving rockets. Both are unpredictable, both need all your attention, and both take you on a crazy and exciting journey.

Some days, I’m trying to explain to my toddler that chocolate isn’t dinner. And honestly, convincing him is harder than pitching to investors.

No book can really teach you how to handle parenting and business together. You might schedule everything carefully, but your child can still interrupt you during a call with a sudden need or a loud cry.

Being a parent doesn’t come with a mute button, just like running a business doesn’t either. Some moments have been really crazy. Like when I was on a Zoom call trying to close a business deal while also helping my older son fix a science project that had exploded all over the living room.

Or the times when I had to travel for work, and the only way to see my child was through a video call. Hearing him say “Dada” on the screen while I sat in an airport made me feel sad, much more than missing any work deadline.

Even with all the noise, tiredness, and guilt, I’ve learned one important thing: the most valuable thing we can give as parents and business owners isn’t time, it’s being truly present.

Yes, I’ve had to give up some things. I missed a few meetings and chances. I said “no” to some evening calls. I didn’t go to some events so I could be home for bedtime stories.

But if you ask me if I’d give up seeing my sons take their first steps or hearing their first words just to attend those meetings, my answer is always no.

That’s a choice I’ll always make.

Being a father while building a business helped me understand real leadership. Real leaders care about people, stay calm during problems, and focus on what’s right for others. It’s more than just profits or planning.

Even when I’m really tired, I do my best to be kind and calm. My wife helps me through it all. She keeps things going, encourages me, and reminds me it’s okay if things don’t go exactly as planned.

More than any business teacher, she keeps me steady. Behind every parent juggling work and kids, there’s often a partner holding things together with love.

I’ve learned that always being busy isn’t as great as people make it seem, especially if it means missing time with the people you love.

We should stop acting like being tired all the time is a good thing and start seeing how important it is to simply be there, both at work and at home.

And I know I’m not the only one.

To all the parents working while their kids nap, answering emails with a baby in their arms, or finishing work after bedtime, remember this: Feeling tired doesn’t mean you’re weak. You’re not behind. You’re doing two full-time jobs with just one heart.

And that’s not just amazing, it’s true strength.

Parenting shows you how to be a strong leader. You learn to listen, even when you're tired. You stay calm during tough times. And you start thinking about what’s best not just now, but later too.

You start to see that people aren’t just workers, they’re real people with feelings, needs, and dreams. And because you're showing love and care at home, you start doing the same at work.

Parenthood gives success a new meaning. It’s not just about finishing tasks or reaching targets. It’s about being there for your children, hearing their stories, and holding them close. These little moments count the most. Building a great life at home is a true win.

Here’s to all the parents who are also building companies. To the ones reading bedtime stories and working on business plans at the same time.

Choosing to be there for your family instead of being perfect is a real strength. That’s leadership with heart. What’s one way being a parent has helped you become a better leader?