Happy Independence Day. I hope this blog post sits in your inbox for at least a day and that you are sitting by the lake, grill, beach, pool etc. Insert your own brand of fun. The funny thing about business ownership is that we start for the independence, and too often find ourselves slaves to the job.
Entrepreneurs start businesses for (mostly) the same reasons.
- We want to be in control of our futures.
- We want earning potential that isn’t controlled by someone else.
- We want to set our own schedule.
- We want to make a difference in the world.
- We want something to pass on to the next generation.
But the reality of launching the business looks more like this.
- Working long hours
- Running out of money from time to time.
- Spending more time running the business than changing the world.
- A LOT of pressure.
- A never ending to-do list.
Can you relate? I’m not one to sugarcoat, so let’s be honest. Running a business is a LOT of work. The work is not optional. The stress and suffering is!
I work hard in my business. But I am also extremely dedicated to enjoying my life while I run my business.
Here are some tips to help you experience the freedom you wanted when you started the business.
- Block out an hour for you each day. Journal, meditate, pray, read. Whatever you do to get grounded, do it. When you are at your best you are so much more capable to lead your company.
- Block out time for your relationships. Date nights and family vacations should be non-negotiable. But I find the most critical time to protect is the time you spend connecting on a daily basis. Our relationships don’t require 100% of our time to thrive. They require 100% of our attention in the times we protect for them.
- Say no to the wrong business. You know what I’m talking about, the business that brings in money, but sucks the life out of you. You don’t have to chase every dollar. Just because you can close a deal, doesn’t mean you should.
- Don’t buy the story that more money equals more happiness. More happiness equals more happiness. Do the things that make you happy AND work. It is not one or the other.
- Stop comparing and charting your course based on the expectations of your peers or your industry. I have to remind myself of this one often. In my industry, I “should” be pursuing becoming a household name. But the truth is, I don’t care if I’m known in your household. I care that I’m good in my household. Has that slowed me down in business? Maybe. But it’s built a business that I can manage and grow without sacrificing my happiness, freedom, and relationships.
So happy Independence Day! It’s a good time to assess and see if your business is truly bringing you the freedom you desire!