How Entrepreneurs Can Achieve Work-Life Balance
How Entrepreneurs Can Achieve Work-Life Balance
For business owners, it’s hard to balance work with personal life. The needs and pressure of getting a business running can seem overbearing, and breaking away from that work may seem far-fetched. However, this is something that has to be easily attained since acquiring a work-life balance is the only way not to burn out, stay healthy, and be more productive. So here are 10 painless strategies that help you juggle your professional life with your personal life so that you can find time for yourself as well as your family and interests.
- Share tasks with your team.
One of the easiest ways to begin to balance your work and personal life is to involve your team in getting things done. You can’t be everywhere in your business at once. Passing duties to your employees not only reduces your stress levels but also paints a picture of how much faith you have in them. This can raise their spirits and get them to put in more effort. By releasing some tasks, you release time for yourself and lessen the pressure on you, letting you concentrate on what’s really important.
- Focus on what’s most important and know your limits.
To have work-life balance, you have to decide what you want to be in balance. Ask yourself: What, for you, represents balance? That means more time with family or friends for some people. For others, it’s about having time for their hobbies. When you are clear about your priorities, set boundaries by being able to say “no.‘ It’s very common for business owners to take on lots of work. And more often than not, it really does bog them down. Before saying ‘yes’ to any new tasks or projects, think if the opportunity is going to be really aligned with your schedule and goals.
- How about creating a simple daily routine?
Having a routine can just make your days more manageable. A routine is simply a set of habits or tasks that you do regularly, like planning your day or setting specific work hours. For example, you could write a to-do list every morning and check things off as you accomplish them. It’s a simple habit that will keep you in that organizational and even motivated frame. A routine increases work output thereby allowing adequate time for personal engagements.
- Take some time for yourself
Often, busy business owners do not pay much attention to self-care; however, this is the key to being healthy and staying on top of the game. Find time for some exercise, eating healthily, and sleeping. All of these will help keep your body and mind in the best condition. Also, reserve one hour in a week at least to enjoy anything- getting a massage, walking, or reading a book. The more time you give to yourself, the better you will be able to perform at work.
- Take a break after work hours.
It’s a pretty big temptation to go through the emails or take the calls once you’ve been knocked off from work, but it ends up not letting you wind down. Identify one time during the day to not work later. E.g.: Switch your phone to “Do Not Disturb” mode during the evening so that it doesn’t go off with notifications. That way, you can concentrate on your life outside without any disturbances coming in the way. It can be a little awkward at first but detaching helps you become more effective and enjoy your free time.
- Use email auto-responders
And if you ‘re anything like me, you freak out about potentially missing out on those oh so important messages when you go offline. So, pop your email on auto-responder mode: a nifty little tool that sends automated tidbits to people, letting them know when you’ll be back and available to respond. For instance, say a message reads: “currently out of the office until tomorrow morning. I’ll get back to you shortly.” This sets a premise through which your clients and co-workers are assured of your re-attending to their needs later, thereby taking the edge off the pressure to respond right away.
- Take breaks or vacations often
Taking time off is hard to do for business owners but that’s one of the reasons why vacations are so valuable: getting completely away can clear your mind and bring out fresh new ideas. Whether it’s a short weekend away or a longer trip, try to disconnect as much as possible. Use the auto-responder and trust your team to take care of things. You’ll come back feeling charged to take on work all over again.
- Find a Fun Hobby
Hobbies are one of the ways through which you can forget about work and enjoy your leisure. Something like art, walking, writing, or even engaging in any game; it has to be something that interests you. On many occasions, a hobby serves a relaxing mode and activates another part of your mind that also brings balance. Plan for time each week to do something in your hobby.
- Quality time with family and friends is what life in balance is all about.
Individuals need each other to dedicate specific times to spend with loved ones doing something fun like going to the park, holding a family dinner or visiting a new place. These are moments that keep you in touch and remind you to keep personal relationships at the top of your list.
- Regularly check your balance and make adjustments as needed.
Your work-life balance is never going to remain perfect; with changes in your business or personal life, your approach may need to be changed accordingly. Check in with yourself regularly to see if you are spending too much time working or neglecting your personal life. If you notice things are awry, cut back a little on your working hours, or schedule more family time. Flexibility keeps your balance sustainable.
Why Work-Life Balance Matters
Having a balance in your career and personal life doesn’t just make you feel better — it makes you a better business owner, friend, and family member. When you’re less stressed, you’re more efficient and productive during work hours. Not to mention, you’ll have the energy to enjoy your personal life, which plays into your overall well-being. By following these 10 strategies, you can create a routine that helps you be successful in your work but still carve out time for yourself and loved ones.
Don’t let the business take you over your life. Try one or two of these tips at the small beginning with delegating or setting boundaries. Over time, these changes will help you feel more in control and less overwhelmed by the business. A balanced life is in arm’s reach, and it starts by putting you first.
