 CREATING
THE ENTREPRENEURIAL LIFE
By Cheryl Bakke Martin of Inspirations Unlimited
Being an entrepreneur, and still having a life can be an incredible
challenge. Yet, how we create that life is truly a matter of choice, particularly for the
entrepreneur. For those of us who have chosen this independent path, we have the unique
ability to design our business focus and manage our time as we see fit, make choices about
who and what we get involved with, and create each daily experience. Ironically, it is
inherent in the entrepreneurial spirit to create numerous exciting projects, and feel as
if we can do everything required to ensure successful outcomes ourselves. If we aren't
careful, this can lead to a plate that is far too full; a life that becomes stressful and
ineffective. So, how do you, as an entrepreneur, 'get a life'? You create it! And, that
requires commitment to planning and to your priorities.
Most important on that priority list: YOU. To create a thriving
business, the person running and/or leading that business must be thriving. Using a yearly
planner, block off your vacation time - 2 weeks per quarter. No, I'm not kidding. Not only
can this be done, it is essential to the well-being of both you and your growing business.
In addition, a minimum of 2 days per week are to be considered off days, even for those of
you who need to be available to clients on the weekend. This concept may require a huge
mental shift for many, however, those I know who actually work considerably less days,
report that they are in fact producing more, working more effectively, feeling better, and
experiencing more fun and less stress. Consider yourself your most important client.
Secondly, most entrepreneurs are incredibly talented and have the
ability to multi-task. However there comes a time for each of us when our business grows
to a point where it is no longer humanly possible, nor healthy, to be doing everything
ourselves. I asked my business coach, who is one of the most successful coaches in Canada,
and who built a thriving practice very rapidly, what she would do differently if she
started all over again. The first thing she said was that she would have hired an
assistant much sooner. There are now numerous 'virtual assistants' who can take on work
one project at a time, and who will do so out of their own office, working with you via
email and phone. So, you don't have to be able to afford full-time or even part-time
assistance. Consider negotiating a contract for help with just one project and see how it
goes.
Thirdly, know your priorities in life and in business, and honor them
by ensuring that you plan each week around them. Regularly check to make certain you are
engaged in activities that are moving you toward your vision. A while ago, I was having
trouble making time for a particular activity that I needed to focus on to move my
business in the direction I wanted it to go. My strategic consultant challenged me with
this analogy:
"If something were to happen to one of your boys and he had to be
in the hospital for 2 weeks, would you be able to clear your calendar?" "Of
course", I replied.
"Would you somehow manage your loss of income during that
time?" "Yes, we always seem to manage. I expect we would do the same in that
circumstance", I was beginning to get the picture.
"Well then, this is no different. Those boys are an obvious
priority for you and you would drop everything when they needed you. If this activity is
what your business needs, and is a priority for you as you say it is, then you will make
time for it by planning and blocking time for it in your calendar. It is simply a matter
of priorities, and your commitment to them." Ouch! He was painfully correct.
If your priorities are genuinely important to
you, then behave as if they are and give those activities the time they deserve.
Finally, build a support system to help keep you focused and on track.
The bigger the game you are playing, the more support you need to bring in. This may mean
working with a coach on your strategic planning, your weekly focus, challenges and
opportunities, or with another entrepreneur who understands your business and your
lifestyle challenges. You can buddy up, share your monthly plans, and use your
relationship to help keep you both committed to your priorities. Another source of support
to consider is a mastermind group where several individuals with similar interests come
together once a month to share their experiences, brainstorm, try out new ideas, celebrate
successes, and challenge each other to remain true to themselves.
Remember, how we live our lives is ultimately a choice. If we plan,
take good care of ourselves, and surround ourselves with a good support team, we are much
more likely to make wise choices. You and your business will reap the rewards.
Cheryl Bakke Martin, owner of Inspirations Unlimited, is
a personal coach, speaker & facilitator. If you are in a place where you want to take
your business to the next level & would like consult with a coach, Cheryl invites you
to a free consultation. 403.948.1078 - www.inspirations.ab.ca
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