Wife, mother, stepmother, entrepreneur, volunteer and the list goes on. As women we have roles and adding the role of entrepreneur takes a lot of energy and time away from the other roles in our life. I have often heard women talk about finding ways to balance it all. Honestly, I do not think there is a magic formula about balancing all the responsibilities we have or if there is a balance out there. Unfortunately, when you decide to become an entrepreneur your business spills over to every aspect of your life. Instead of focusing on managing everything separately I have tried to blend my roles to make sure I cover all my bases. I am not expert in this area and I know I have a lot to still learn but I have listed a few tips that I have used that have helped me along the way.
1.Put your to do list on an index card. I do not know about you but I have the longest to do list every day. It is so long that I get overwhelmed just looking at it. I attended a workshop given by Martha Carnahan, she stated that instead of creating a long list of things to do each day she put her list on an index card. Once the items were checked off then she would create a new list. I have tried this and it has helped me focus on my priorities each day.
2.Include your friends and family in your business. There are times when you need to send out direct mail or type leads. Include your family on some of the operational duties of the business. This will allow your family and friends to be a part of your business and take a few things off of you list of things to do.
3.Create a “scheduled” day off. I know, I know many of you know that entrepreneurship is 24/7 but there are times when you have to take a minute. A great mentor of mine said she closes her business to customers on a certain day of the week. On this day she catches up on administrative work and focuses on the projects that she has to work with for her clients. If closing your business for a day is not an option then try closing a few hours early.
4.Learn to say “NO”.One of the reasons my to do list is long is because I have a bad habit of being everything to everybody. Unfortunately, that leaves no time for your family and your business. I have learned to consciously realize that saying no helps me keep my priorities on track.
