Written by a Contributor
There’s a common problem that business owners have, and it’s this: to create a successful company takes a lot of hard work and effort. And in the process of building the company, then other things have to give. Ask a new entrepreneur what they’ve been doing for fun over the past six months, and they’ll look at you like you’ve just asked them how many heads they have – all their time has been spent working on the business. But there’s more to life than business success, so how do you improve your work/life balance, so that it’s not so one-sided? We take a look below.
Consider Working Less
Wouldn’t it be nice to work fewer hours, yet still get as much done as if you were working a full week and more? Well, good news: it’s possible. We’ve discovered a lot about productivity in recent years, and one of the main takeaways is that more extended hours do not necessarily mean greater productivity. In fact, the correlation is virtually non-existent. A New Zealand company has just reduced its employees hours to only four days a week. The result? More free time, no reduction in output.
Outsourcing Your Tasks
Of course, many of the hours you’ll be working won’t be “extra,” as in, you’re putting in more effort to try and make your company grow. The hours will be spent doing things that have to be done, and, as you’re the only employee, it’s up to you. One option is to hire more staff, but if that’s not possible, look at outsourcing some of your tasks. You can have your IT managed by Online Computers Support and Consulting Solutions; your accounting handled by a professional; and your marketing controlled by a third party, among other tasks. With that time freed up, you’ll be able to spend more time at home.
Have a Cut off Point
One problem that many business owners have is that they’re unable to switch off. They’re always thinking about work, even when they’re at home. You can make this less likely by having a set cut off point for work. If you’re leaving the office at six, then you’re LEAVING THE OFFICE AT SIX. That means no checking emails, making phone calls, or planning tomorrow’s tasks when you’re at home.
Only Expand When Ready
There’s the idea that growth is always good. In truth, it’s not. Sometimes it’s bad for business! And it could also be bad for you if you’re already struggling to juggle your business and personal life. Before you grow, think if it’s something that you really want. It might even be worth scaling down your business if you’d like more time with the family.
Take Time Off
Finally, remember to take time off, and that means: actually take time off! A week spent lying on the beach won’t do any good if you’re forever thinking about work. Put it to one side for the week, and you’ll return to work energized and raring to go.
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