Growing a Business and a Family at the same time
Many of us choose to become a business owner because we are passionate about our business vision and we want to have the flexibility and freedom to spend time with our children and family.
It might sound like an impossible task, but it is possible. Both demand time, a lot of energy and most of all commitment. If you achieve a balance you will be able to do both well.
Work-life balance is achievable between the competing demands of a family and a business. But the best business owners recognize that their business must run effectively without them being present. This means creating a system to ensure a consistent standard of customer service, sales and customer management whether you are physically present or not.
Attempting to both grow a business and a family at the same time can be stressful. It is important to set goals regularly and revaluate those goals frequently. Families need goals to thrive just as much as businesses do.
But to grow a successful business you will have to ensure you make your business an equal top priority for it to be a success. Despite what some idealist declares, you will have to sacrifice certain things as we can’t have it all. You will still have to miss some important school events or special family time. You have to make a choice on what time and activities you are willing to sacrifice. Remember to let go of trying to be the perfect parent. Most children experience a whole range of positive benefits later in life due to the hard work you are doing and the example you are setting.
Investment in both your business and in yourself is required for your business to be a success. For your business to exceed you will have to invest in yourself to develop the necessary skills and competencies you require to be a successful business owner. Your business will also require investments towards setting up the right systems and structures, marketing and brand awareness, sales and customer relationship building.
Once you have established your business it is important to establish boundaries both during work and home hours. Your family needs to know what you expect from them in order for them to comply and support you. If you have employees, it is important to explain the same boundaries to them especially with regards to your family commitments.
Most of all remember why you decided to start your own business. Remember to take time to spend with your family and to take time to go on family vacations. As you spend more time working than you would spend with your children or partner, it is imperative that the time you spend with them is quality and not work-related time. The key aspect of growing your business and family at the same time is that there is a deep cooperation from both sides. Set clear boundaries, for yourself, your family and your employees, and then you will succeed.
