Running a home-based business while taking care of a family requires careful time management and prioritization. There are many benefits to running a home-based business, like getting to spend more time with your kids, seeing extended family often, getting to enjoy your hobbies and passions, and traveling more frequently. However, it can be challenging, especially if you have young kids or multiple businesses. The golden rule of thumb to follow is – spend 90% of your time doing high value tasks like marketing, client meetings, and processing work and 10% time doing admin work.
Here are 7 effective tips for managing your time and priorities while balancing your home-based business and family like:
1. Be realistic
Understand that you may not be able to give 100% of your time and attention to both areas, and that’s okay. It’s important to prioritize what’s most important and create a schedule that works for you and your family. Also, remember that you only have control only over certain things in your life and business, so don’t blame yourself when things don’t go your way.
2. Create a practical schedule
As a mama and rental business coach myself, this has helped me so much. Sometimes, there’s no clear distinction between family time and business time when working from home. Schedule your work hours and block off time for family activities and personal time. Having a routine helps you stay organized and focused, and it also helps your family know when you’re available.
3. Set boundaries with your family and work-life
Let your family know when you’re working and when you’re not. Avoid working during family time and set aside time for yourself. When you set clear boundaries, you’ll be able to give your full attention to your family when you’re with them and your work when you’re working.
4. Outsource tasks
Don’t think of outsourcing tasks as failing at your role in your family or business. It’s a positive sign that your business is flourishing. Hire a virtual assistant to handle administrative tasks or outsource social media management to a freelancer. You can also hire a marketing agency to handle some of the marketing responsibilities.
5. Use technology to automate your business
Some areas of your business that you can automate include time management, orders, customer service, inventory management, and project management. Use scheduling apps, like Google Calendar, to keep track of your schedule and set reminders for important tasks. Use communication apps, like Slack or Zoom, to stay in touch with your team and clients.
6. Learn to say no
You can’t do everything, and it’s okay to say no to things that don’t align with your priorities. Saying no helps you avoid overcommitting and feeling overwhelmed, giving you more time and energy for what’s most important.
7. Involve your family
Let your children help with small tasks or include them in your business planning. It’ll teach them important life and business skills while keeping them busy. The more they feel involved, the more they’ll understand that their mom or dad work hard. It’ll also give you some extra time to spend with them.
The demands of your business can sometimes invade family time. Be prepared for that to happen. Your family is there to support you, so be open to them about your business. At the same time, set aside time just for the family. Remember, focus on quality of the time instead of quantity. For more side hustle and business tips and support, follow Carrie’s Courses.
