I have been a stay-at-home mom since my daughter was born. It's hard to believe that was eight years ago! Throughout this time, I had done small jobs for family and friends but for the most part, I was devoted 100% to my children and family.
After the birth of my son in 2003, my husband and I began to talk about my returning to work once my son started school. I looked forward to the idea as I thought it would be nice to get back into the workforce and socialize with adults again. However, as my son got older, I began to have second thoughts. I couldn't fathom the idea of my children going to daycare. The thought of another person seeing a new milestone before I did was heart wrenching!
I had to come up with an idea that would allow me to work from home. This I thought was my only option. Since I had always completed jobs for family and friends, I decided I could try and put my skills together that would be the foundation of my business. Instead of doing the jobs for free, as I had in the past, I would charge people for my skills and creative talent.
I completed a year of research, and it was then I discovered the wonderful world of Virtual Assistants. I quickly realized I wasn't alone, but more importantly, I knew that I could do this! That was 2 years ago. I now run a successful Virtual Assistant business and have had my doors open (so to speak) since January 2007. I can do what I always wanted to do - raise my children while helping to support my family!
For me, opening my business wasn't the hardest part. It was in fact, creating a balance. Now I have two passions that I would love to dedicate all my time to. Yet, as I've quickly realized, it's just not possible! Self discipline has played a huge role in how I manage my time. I have learnt to carefully draw a line between my personal and business life. It can be so easy to forget ‘I'm not at work' when my computer is within arm's reach. Somewhere along the way, we as entrepreneurs need to set ground rules.
I have listed some steps that have helped me create my balance in life. Feel free to implement these techniques and adjust them accordingly.
1. Set a designated time for your office. For example 9 am to 5 pm or 7 am to 3 pm.
2. Set up your office in a specific place within your house. Don't have your office in your master bedroom or living room. Your office will be too tempting during family time.
3. At the end of your work day, turn off your computer, cell phone, hand held device and any other form of technology where clients contact you.
4. Do your absolute best to leave the burden of your work at your office. I know sometimes this can be easier said than done. But, you don't want to burn yourself out. When it is family time, do everything possible to focus on just your family.
5. At the end of your work day. Unwind before beginning your family time. Take a quick walk, go for a drive, engage in mental meditation, whatever it is that sets you at ease and gives you the ability to completely focus on your family.
"Balance in your life between work and your personal life is very important. Without balance, you eventually burnout negatively affecting your performance at work."
Byron & Catherine Pulsifer, from What Are the Benefits to Me?
To Your Success,
Vanessa Lindsay
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