Businesses are born out of dreams and passion. Most small businesses begin operations in the kitchen or basement of their homes before expanding to own a separate storefront or brick-and-mortar facility. These characteristics make it challenging for a business owner to draw a line between personal and professional life.
The passion for growing their business into a thriving enterprise might lead to a rift in the work-life balance and can negatively impact both the personal and professional front. But on the other hand, peaceful, professional life will contribute to focusing on business goals, and consistent professional growth helps keep the personal life comfortable.
Small business owners should therefore think about how they handle their personal and professional lives without having to compromise on both.
Clear division of time
Business owners should create clear divisions of time and boundaries in their personal and professional lives. For example, setting a specific time for work and family. When at work, focusing attention on business operations and decision-making and having a separate time for socializing with friends and family can go a long way in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
Time-bound work completion
Business owners must ensure they complete their work time bound without taking back work home or taking time away that was expected to spend for themselves or with family. In a world where being a workaholic is considered a romantic idea as being committed to one’s dream and passion, one should remember that success at the cost of losing oneself is not ideal. Dedication to work is a virtue, but over-dedication can be detrimental.
Be in the present
Business owners should practice the art of being in the present. To focus on their work while at the office, free from personal or outside influences, and to leave their work-related stress at the door before going home. They should also build a life outside their business and pursue interests aside from business operations. They should set aside time for self-care and engage in activities they enjoy.
Mark your priorities
Building a brand, running an enterprise with consistent growth, and owning a profitable business is impressive. Achieving the goals that you set for yourself deserves all appreciation. Still, in their quest for professional success, business owners should not forget to prioritize their mental health, self-care, and family life. There should not come the point where you look back and regret not being there at a personal moment in your rush to achieve your goal.
Division of Labor
Business owners should trust their employees and believe in their potential to handle situations and make decisions that are in the business’s best interests. This division of labor helps them have a good work-life balance without taking the weight and tension that can be equally distributed among team members without adding additional work to anyone. In addition, owners should realize that not every action necessitates constant supervision and that it’s okay to relax.
Just as business owners can plan and strategize their company’s operations, marketing, and customer management, they should also demonstrate the ability to divide their time into personal and professional activities and create a work-life balance. The smart thinking they exhibit in business management should be reflected in managing a balance between their passion and family.
An equal time division for work and family helps business owners maintain a healthy and happy life. To read more on these business tips, subscribe to Indigenous SME Business Magazine. For the latest updates, visit our Twitter page at @IndigenousSme.
