Although being an entrepreneur and small business owner can be both rewarding and exciting, it also requires you to be a multi-tasker and wear many hats. Getting everything done on time and accurately requires self-discipline and time management, something you may have to work at to improve those skills. However, creating structure in your work week will pay off by honing your management abilities, conserving your valuable resources and identifying areas where you may need to make changes to your routine. Here are some ways to add structure to your work life:
Treat Yourself Like An Employee
Chances are, you did not start out as an entrepreneur. Most business owners have had at least one traditional job before they ventured into business ownership. A traditional employee role typically requires set hours, responsibilities, and expectations. Start by writing down all of your duties and responsibilities, including deadlines and target dates. Then use this information to schedule your time most effectively. Schedule tasks with hard deadlines first, such as running payroll, filing tax returns and paying bills; allow adequate time for each task. Be realistic about what you can accomplish in a given time period and avoid overcommitting yourself.
Create and Maintain Boundaries
Without good boundaries, even the most well-defined plans can get waylaid. Boundaries allow you to stay focused on your priorities and not get side-tracked. Setting and holding boundaries takes practice, especially in this day and age when we are typically connected 24/7 with cell phones, text, and email. A simple boundary you can start with is creating available “office hours” where you can be reached during normal working hours. Unless it is an emergency, after hours calls, emails, and texts can wait until the next business day. Be consistent and communicate clearly with others so they know what your boundaries are and what they can expect from you.
Allow Time to Work On, Not In, Your Business
It is easy to get caught up in all of the day-to-day tasks of running a business, but don't forget why you started your business and what your vision is. Thinking and creative time is just as important as active time for entrepreneurs. Your next new product idea, marketing campaign or even new business venture may come from these moments when you allow yourself time to dream and plan. Commit to giving yourself at least 4 hours a week of creative time; think of it as an investment in your future self and future business.
Schedule Time for Self Care
We rarely hesitate to create time for others and their needs, but often overlook the need to schedule time for ourselves. Self care, or “me time”, will look different for each person. For some, it might be quiet time to meditate, read, or engage in a hobby; for others it may be taking a walk, visiting the gym or playing a sport. Disconnecting from the stressful work environment is crucial to maintaining good health and retaining your motivation. Make sure you schedule time in your calendar for regular self care!