insight : amber de la garza
Creating a Desirable Work-Life Balance Focusing on family, friends, passions and self-care can help you feel better as you resume normal operations at work BY AMBER DE LA GARZA
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fter months of navigating uncharted waters in your business and strategizing how you can pivot during these uncertain times, the U.S. is slowly opening up and small businesses are anxiously getting back into gear. Before resuming operations as normal when it’s safe to do so, consider what you are rushing back to and if that structure provides the lifestyle you want moving forward. Are you constantly working late and on weekends? Sleeping enough? Giving your spouse what they need? Spending quality time with your kids? Many small business owners find themselves so neck-deep in their business that they have little time for the activities and people that make life enjoyable and fulfilling. That doesn’t have to be your reality. As the economy rebounds and you start with a semi-fresh slate schedule-wise, focus on creating the work-life balance you desire. Here are some areas where you can make adjustments.
Work
Work can sneakily expand so much that it bleeds into every area of your life. While passionately growing your business, you may have
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JULY + AUGUST 2020 | wf-vision.com
fallen way out of balance as your business demanded most of your focus, time and energy. Staying way out of balance over the long haul, though, will leave you feeling unfulfilled and empty, no matter how high your profits. Of the 25 biggest regrets in life, not a single one is “I wish I had worked more.” Number one? Working so much at the expense of family and friendships.
Family
For your relationships with your partner, kids and family to flourish, you must give them the time and attention they deserve. Discuss which activities they want you to be present for the most. Then, figure out where and when you can be fully present with the people you love to meet their needs as well as your own. For example, if your family values having dinner together every night, do your best to make that happen—even if it means finishing your work after they go to bed.
Friends/Socializing
It’s important to have a great support network, so schedule time to step away from your work and socialize. Whether you have lots of friends who need to go out every weekend or a few select friends
