Can business be child’s play?
This blog is written by Yvonne Gorman, Director of Essential Print Services. Drawing on her experience as a business owner and a mum, Yvonne shares insights inspired by her little boy Jack, who recently turned two. Watching him navigate the world with curiosity, creativity, and resilience, she realised there are valuable lessons for business owners in even the smallest moments. In this post, Yvonne explores what we can all learn from the “terrific twos.” Over to Yvonne:
My little boy Jack turned two recently.
The so-called “terrible twos”? I’m not convinced. In fact, I think it’s the terrific twos.
Yes, there are tantrums and boundary testing (and occasionally yoghurt on the ceiling). But watching Jack grow, I’ve realised that toddlers have an instinctive way of navigating the world that business owners could learn a lot from.
And much like in printing, where a simple idea can turn into something tangible and impactful, toddlers remind us that the simplest actions often hold the greatest lessons.
So, to mark his big milestone, I pulled together 12 toddler-inspired lessons for entrepreneurs. And when I first shared them, the response was overwhelming. So many people resonated with the themes. I’ve included some of their reflections here to show just how much wisdom can come from the smallest teachers.
1. Ask “why?” a lot, even when it annoys people
Toddlers question everything. Their constant “why?” can feel relentless, but it’s really just curiosity at work.
In business, we often stop asking why. We assume we know the answers, or we’re too busy. But asking “why” can lead to innovation and improvement. It’s a bit like print projects: if we ask why you’re printing something, we can suggest smarter formats, finishes, or quantities that save you money and make your message more effective.
2. Tantrums are just passion without a filter
Jack can throw himself onto the supermarket floor with an Oscar-worthy performance. While adults don’t need to copy the flailing limbs, there’s something to be said for being honest about what excites or frustrates you at work.
And let’s be honest, printers have seen plenty of “passionate” moments when deadlines loom. But passion, when channelled positively, is what gets projects over the line.
3. Celebrate the small wins
When Jack stacks three blocks, he beams like he’s conquered the world. Small wins are worth celebrating because they build momentum.
At Essential Print Services, we love celebrating the small print wins with our customers too, whether it’s new business cards, freshly branded stationery, or the first banner stand for a trade show. Those little moments can give a business a big confidence boost.
One of our clients, Anna, commented: “I remember when I was a child, I would light up when something went well and everyone knew about my win! We truly are super creative as children and the things we invent really shout out loud. Lots to learn from.”
4. Be fearlessly creative
A cardboard box can be a castle, a rocket, or a boat. Children don’t see limits; they just create.
Our business buddy, Kim, put it brilliantly: “Be fearlessly creative and nap when you need to – my favourite two lessons!!”
It’s the same with print. A sheet of paper is just a blank canvas until creativity transforms it into a flyer, a booklet, or packaging that tells a story.
5. Nap when you need to
If Jack doesn’t nap, he turns into a monster. And honestly, so do we; we’ve just learned to disguise it with caffeine and polite smiles.
Rest isn’t a weakness; it’s a tool. A short break or reset can be the difference between burnout and breakthrough. The same goes for projects. Sometimes stepping away from a design or a print brief gives you a fresh perspective.
6. Persistence pays off
Toddlers will ask for cake 47 times in a row, and sometimes they win. Persistence, reframing, asking again, and finding another angle are often what tips the balance in business.
It’s not unlike fine-tuning a print job until the colours, textures, and finishes are exactly right. Persistence is what makes quality shine.
7. Learn through play
Play is how children learn everything from problem-solving to social skills. Adults can adopt the same approach. Experimenting, gamifying tasks, or simply making work enjoyable can fuel innovation.
We see this when clients get excited about exploring paper stocks, finishes, or quirky design ideas. Play often leads to the most memorable results.
8. Be in the moment
Jack doesn’t worry about yesterday’s mistakes or tomorrow’s plans. He’s fully immersed in what he’s doing now.
In print, being present means focusing on the detail at hand, whether that’s proofs, colours, or finishes, to make sure the end product is just right. In business, it’s giving clients and colleagues your full attention.
9. Don’t be afraid to say “no”
Jack has discovered the word “no,” and he uses it liberally. As business owners, we sometimes forget how powerful no can be. Protecting your time and energy is just as important as chasing opportunities.
Friend of the business, George, commented: “‘Protect your energy’ landed particularly for me, so thank you for the reminder. I needed to hear that today.”
We’ve found the same in print. Saying “no” to a rushed job that could compromise quality often leads to a better outcome for everyone.
10. Fall down, get back up
Toddlers fall constantly. They cry, they wobble, but they always get back up.
Failure in business is no different. At Essential Print Services, we’ve learned that the odd mishap, like a paper jam at the worst possible moment, is part of the journey. It’s how quickly you get back up and fix it that counts.
11. Keep it simple
Children don’t overcomplicate things. They want food, fun, cuddles, and sleep. Businesses should take a similar approach: cut the jargon, streamline processes, and focus on clarity.
Printing works best when it’s simple too: clear messaging, clean design, and straightforward calls-to-action. Sometimes the simplest jobs are the most effective.
12. Surround yourself with cheerleaders
When Jack masters something new, the room erupts in applause. Encouragement builds confidence, and businesses thrive in the same way.
As a customer called Lizzie said: “I love all of these! Thanks, Jack (and Yvonne) for a great fresh perspective!”
And business buddy, Katrina, added: “We like to try and find the fun in everything, it makes life a bit more lovely when you can find little pockets of joy in the day and share it with other people.”
Both are beautiful reminders that encouragement and joy are contagious. At Essential Print Services, we see how much difference it makes when clients cheer each other on, whether it’s celebrating a new brochure launch or sharing someone’s flyers at an event.
Wrapping it up
Life with a two-year-old is messy, noisy, and unpredictable. But hidden in the chaos are lessons every business owner can benefit from:
- Stay curious
- Show your passion
- Celebrate small wins
- Be creative
- Rest when needed
- Persist
- Play
- Be present
- Say no
- Bounce back
- Keep it simple
- Build a support squad
Jack may only be two, but he’s already proving to be one of my best teachers. And judging by the responses from others, his lessons have landed far beyond our little household.
So perhaps the answer is yes: business really can be child’s play. Much like print, the best results come when you approach things with creativity, curiosity, and a little bit of fun.
Over to you
What lessons have you learned from children, your own or others, that have helped you in business or life? I’d love to hear your stories in the comments.
And if you’d like to bring some of that fearless creativity and joy into your print, get in touch with us at Essential Print Services. We’d love to help.
