I usually got some weird looks when I say that setting boundaries creates your freedom but there is a method to my crazy thought.
If setting a schedule feels ridiculous to you after venturing into the world of entrepreneurship, you’re not alone after all, you started your business because you wanted to set your own schedule, right?
And if you feel like you’re not getting anything done because you are spending too much time focusing on things at home rather than on or in your business, what needs to change?
My boundaries used to overlap for a long time, leaving me tired and drained from the energy to get anything done. I learned early on that having a schedule would be the only way that I could get anything done. It’s also important to communicate this with your people because there’s nothing worse (to me) than writing a blog post or creating a video or being on a call and my family interrupting me.
It also helps to have a plan in place so every Sunday, I review my week and plan ahead. This helps me know what I have done well, what needs improving and what I need to focus on for the upcoming week.
It’s also important to have done time! I sometimes get into these work manic states where I spend 10-12 days on a project – and it’s because I am fired up about it but having some downtime to recharge and rest is necessary for the brain and the body.
One of the things I keep in mind and work hard on is to go to bed at the same time every night, usually around 10 or 11p.m. and I am up at 7 a.m. to drink my coffee, do my journaling and get ready for the day ahead.
Even though I go through these days where all I do is work, in general I stop working at a specific time for the day usually around 5 pm for dinner. This allows me to then spend time with family and friends or read a book. I don’t think we need to be tied down to our business all the time and hence setting those boundaries is creating my freedom.
Freedom to work whenever but structures.
Freedom to spend time with family and friends.
Freedom to read a book or create art.
Freedom to take a nap or work in the garden.
Freedom to just be.
So, here are some things you can do to create boundaries around your business, family and for yourself:
- Plan your week, since my week begins Monday, I will do this Sunday evening
- Create a theme for the week
- Plan the days you will be writing, working on something new, client schedule
- Review each day the night before, it really helps you be prepared
- Set work hours, family time and personal time, don’t forget to include breaks & lunch
- Schedule in down time for yourself to recharge i.e. Spa day, movie night etc.
- Take days off – if you work 7 days a week, you will burn out!
Setting boundaries creates your freedom when you commit to staying consistent. If you are struggling to do that, join The Gathering and get some help in our monthly mastermind.
