Michelle Penczak Is Harnessing The Incredible Skills Of Military Spouses To Provide Unparalleled Virtual Assistant Services
I'm Michelle Penczak, the CEO and Founder of Squared Away. I've harnessed the incredible skills of military spouses to provide unparalleled virtual assistant services. Knowing firsthand the challenges military spouses face, I've created a platform that not only serves businesses worldwide but also offers meaningful careers to this dedicated community. At Squared Away, we're not just redefining remote work, but also demonstrating the power of resilience, adaptability, and commitment.
What motivated you to become an entrepreneur? Is having your own business something you always wanted?
When I married into the military, I never anticipated the challenges I'd face finding employment due to the status of being a military spouse. While I never initially envisioned myself as a CEO, throughout my career, I've consistently found myself advocating for those who needed a voice. I've always been drawn to roles where I could speak up louder for the underdogs. Becoming an entrepreneur wasn't just about building a business for me; it was about creating opportunities for those who, like me, faced barriers and needed someone in their corner.
How do you push through your worst times? What are some tips on how we can motivate ourselves when we’re not really feeling it?
Pushing through the worst times often means truly acknowledging and sitting with those feelings. I've had moments where I've cried in the shower and hidden away in my bedroom closet. These moments are incredibly cleansing and cathartic. Afterward, I make an actionable list and move through it at a pace that's right for me. Everyone has their own rhythm and sometimes multiple emotional moments are necessary before regaining momentum. It's essential to remember that tough times are temporary and there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. One key aspect of my self-care and motivation is attending a weekly therapy session. It not only offers clarity but ensures I feel heard, and it continuously motivates me to persevere.
How do you create the right mindset for yourself and your team in the time of the great resignation? How do you maintain a great company culture where people want to stay and succeed?
In the face of the great resignation, fostering the right mindset is paramount. At Squared Away, our culture goes beyond professional development; we support the whole individual. Being primarily comprised of military spouses, we understand that life is full of unique challenges and surprises. But that's what makes us resilient and adaptable. We've created an environment where everyone feels safe being themselves, and every voice is genuinely valued. This collaborative mindset is a cornerstone in our efforts to scale Squared Away. Every opinion not only matters but contributes to our growth and success. Our mantra is clear: we are by military spouses, for military spouses. This shared understanding and mutual respect help us maintain a vibrant company culture where individuals are motivated to stay and thrive.
FOLLOW MICHELLE ON INSTAGRAM ON IG @CMPENCZ & @ AWAYSQUARED OR VISIT THE WEBSITE HERE
