By SYDNI BAXTER/Contributor
As Lindsey Choice wraps up a meeting at 3D Security, she looks at the time. In two hours, she’ll trade her high heels for dancing shoes.
For Choice—the office and human resource manager at the 3D Security, the owner of Center Stage Dance Co., a wife and a mother—this is a typical day of balancing ambition and obligations.
“This is very difficult, but I have been blessed to work for a company that lets me set my own hours as long as the job gets done,” Choice said. “I put in a lot of hours a week, with about 40 hours at 3D and around 15-plus at the (dance) studio.
Kiesha King also balances several roles daily.
King is a CEO of Allure Aesthetics & Medical Spa, Allure Academy and Empire Tax; a nurse practitioner; a student; a wife; a mother and a grandmother.
“I rely on prioritization, delegation and faith,” King said. “I focus on tasks that align with my goals and delegate responsibilities where possible. Outside of work, I make time for my family and personal growth to stay grounded.
LaToyia Jordan is the CEO of Thriving Daily Media and blazer Box and Co. and a mother.
She said she manages to balance her roles by “taking time to rest and reset.”
Forty-six percent of entrepreneurs in the United States are women and the percentage continues to grow, according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor. A study by the Kauffman Foundation, found that women with children are likelier to start a
business than women without children.
THE JOURNEY
Behind every woman in business is a story of perseverance, passion and purpose.
“My journey wasn’t a straight one,” Choice said. “It was truly God-led. I became interested in dance around fifth grade, took as many classes as I could and fell in love with it.”
As Choice grew older, she decided to take dance more seriously.
“I continued to take dance classes in college at Kilgore College and SFA. I was also offered a secretary job at 3D Security during this time as well,” Choice said.
Like Choice, Stephen F. Austin State University is part of King’s journey.
“With over 20 years as a healthcare professional, my journey began as a CNA, Med Aide, LVN, RN, BSN. And I am currently pursuing my master’s degree as a family nurse practitioner at SFA,” King said.
Jordan not only juggles multiple roles but also deals with health issues.
“Last year in November, I was diagnosed with congestive heart failure, so I had to slow down and learn how to say no to certain projects,” Jordan said. “This has given me a new look on life and to go after all my dreams.”
Jordan is determined not to let health issues derail her goals.
“I hope to officially launch my blazer business and do more 5ks in 2025,” Jordan said.
CHALLENGES
Female entrepreneurs overcome obstacles in their path to success.
“There are so many challenges, but most of all, staying on task while also being available if needed. Being a wife and mother on top of running both businesses is hard.” Choice said.
Some of their challenges are imposed by society.
“One of my biggest challenges is overcoming societal expectations and stereotypes,” she said. “Being an alpha African American businesswoman can be challenging, but I’ve learned to trust my vision and stay resilient.
She also faces the challenge of burnout.
“Burnout happens, especially when managing multiple roles, but I’ve learned to recognize the signs early,” King said.
Jordan said having the support of others helps. “Burnout is a part of life, but you must have people in your corner to help you push through those hard times.”
Jordan transformed her burnout experience into a positive influence on others.
“I wrote an ebook about burnout because I knew people needed help and a few tips to help them bounce back,” Jordan said.
Choice said despite many demands she takes time for herself.
“I have learned to prioritize time for myself, schedule vacations, and have quiet time for myself,” she said. “I can’t be at my best if I don’t prioritize myself from time to time.”
ACHEIVING DREAMS
Choice said she’s paving the way with hopes for her daughter to follow in her footsteps.
“I plan to keep growing both businesses and eventually would love to pass the studio down to my daughter,” Choice said.
King plans to expand Allure Academy, complete her nurse practitioner degree, grow Empire Tax and her medical spa and inspire and mentor women to achieve their dreams.
Women in business should stay true to their “why” and give themselves grace,” she said. “You don’t have to do it all at once; focus on your progress over perfection and remember that your dreams are worth pursuing.”
IN THEIR OWN WORDS: See how these women manage the challenges of work and family.
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