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If you’re an “always-on, always-available, always-connected” entrepreneur, you apt to feel like you’re running hard but not getting ahead. Is that what you intended when you launched your business!? I didn’t think so.
Believe it or not, you have much more control over your day than you realize. Are you ready to get a grip on your day and slay overwhelm? Here are a few tactics to achieve the work-life balance you deserve.
Challenge your beliefs about your availability.
Because you are talented and resourceful, many people gravitate towards you to help with their agenda. Beware of this and learn the art of saying “no” to tasks and assignments that are not part of your own agenda.
Delegate what you can.
Self-made entrepreneurs have a hard time delegating, but it is possible. Some of the reasons I’ve heard for not delegating are “it’s easier just to do it myself” or “it takes less time to do it myself rather than teach someone else.” Sounds familiar? You, and your business, have a finite amount of capacity. If you want to grow your business, you’re going to have to increase your capacity. That includes delegating.
Take breaks early and often.
As children some of us were put in a time-out to think about something we did so that we can make better choices in the future. As adults is no different, sometimes we need to put ourselves in time-out to get a sense of control over our day and make better decisions later.
The natural inclination for most is to work with our “nose to the grindstone” from the time we arrive at our desk to the time we leave the office. Breaks of ten-to-fifteen minutes during which time you step away from your work to do something totally unrelated can help keep overwhelm and stress at bay.
Ignore activities not related to your goals.
Have you done a calendar audit recently? You might be amazed at what – or who – is eating up your goal achieving time. Be real and take off your plate any activities that distract you from achieving your goals.
Stop letting email dictate your day.
Do you remember how email was going to make life easier? I don’t either! Email is not the problem; it’s how we opt to deal with email that determines if email contributes to our work-life balance or adds chaos to your day.
Don’t work more than 40 hours a week.
I know I probably sound like an entrepreneurial infidel by suggesting you cap your workweek at 40 hours. Did you know that 40 hours a week has been proven to be sweet spot for keeping unnecessary stress and overwhelm at bay? In fact, in some of the most competitive countries in the world, it’s illegal to work more than 48 hours a week.
Are you feeling overcommitted? Overwhelmed? Out of balance? Stressed out? These tactics make certain you’ll feel less stress, gain greater productivity, more fulfillment, and satisfaction from your business. Say it to yourself and believe it! You have what it takes to have a successful business and enjoy a work-life balance.
Excerpts from article written by Jackie Nagel - Synnovatia
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