When you run your own business, it can be all-consuming. Don’t let this infringe on your valuable family time and your relationships. It’s important to respect both family time and work time, and to set up specific “hours” for both. One way to do this is to schedule out your day in advance, and to account for family events that may throw off your work schedule. After all, part of being your own boss is being able to take off in the middle of the day to watch your kid’s kindergarten play! When things like that happen, make “appointments” for every activity you have going on. If that means email admin needs to be scheduled for 10 PM after everyone goes to bed, so be it. Usually, though, keeping “regular” work and life “hours” is key to finding balance.
Be the boss of your notifications! During your life “hours” (aka family time) turn off your notifications. This isn’t time for checking email or replying to a comment in your study group or Facebook community. I find that turning the notifications off on your mobile device, tablet, or laptop significantly decreases the temptation to work during your non-work hours. Let clients know about your hours ahead of time so they’re aware of your availability. Let your family and friends know, as well, so they know when they can expect you to be fully engaged or available for a quick phone call. During this process, you might feel anxious. Always remember: it’s okay to not be working all the time.