Many people from a wide range of diverse backgrounds prefer to create and manage their own businesses rather than work for someone else. For some of these people, doing precisely this is simple – they can start right away and progress as swiftly as they want and need to. For others, especially parents with small children, it might seem like an impossible balancing act. Of course, it’s not impossible, and if you want to run a business while raising children, you certainly can. With that in mind, here are some things to think about if you’re going to do both well.
Say No
People who manage their own businesses will have a variety of demands on their time. Parents are also subjected to a variety of demands at the same time. You can’t do it all, and learning to say no can help you stay focused and maintain a decent work-life balance so that your family doesn’t suffer. If you can say no to things that will make your life more difficult, you are essentially saying yes to something that will make your life easier.
Don’t Set Working Hours
If you attempt to establish certain working hours, as if you were going to work for someone else in an office, you will have troubles and feel pressured and pushed. Working 9 to 5 with tiny children, even if they attend school, is just not an option. As a result, you must be prepared to work when you can, not always when you want to, at least at first. Always prioritize getting at least seven hours of sleep every night before considering what your family requires of you. That way, you’ll know how much time you have to devote to your company – you might have to work early in the morning and late at night, for example, but it’s worth it if it means doing it properly.
Invest In Help
You may feel as if you want to do everything yourself as a company owner, but that isn’t always realistic when you have a family to care for – or even if you don’t. Investing in assistance and outsourcing part of your job is a smart option; it will cost you money, but it will free up your time and allow you to be more productive in other areas. You could outsource software development, for example, or your accounting or marketing. Consider the duties you presently have to carry out that take up your time but don’t contribute to the company’s growth or that you don’t have the necessary abilities to perform as effectively as someone else – these are the jobs to outsource.
Don’t Hide Your Kids
If you have children, they are a part of who you are, which is vital in business. People like to buy from people, as the old saying goes, and this is particularly true for those with whom they have a personal connection. As a result, being your true self is essential, as is having your family around you and, if necessary, inside the business at times. Some clients may not like it, but others will realize that you are trying your best.
