How to stop working weekends and get a handle on your work-life balance

Posted: 20^th March 2017

By: Clara Wilcox

What if I told you that if you by recognising one phrase, you could get a handle on your work-life balance? Would you believe me?

That it isn’t achieved by the rich and famous of the world. And no, this isn’t one of those patronising articles that state “you have the same 24-hours as Beyonce”.

It is very simply this:

FEAR OF MISSING OUT

This article is for you; the parent who is juggling your business and family.

If you want to change, I am giving you permission to start this process NOW.

Five questions to ask yourself right now, to stop working your weekends

 

1. What are you fearful of missing out of by working weekend?

What do you think will happen if you aren’t available, or you take time for yourself? Do you think you will miss clients or new business? That you will not hit deadlines or your reputation will be impacted?

What can you do to overcome this worry?

2. What are your working hours?

Make sure that these are public, through your website, Facebook page and your email. An automatic responder is great for setting boundaries.

3. What expectations do you have?

Make it clear that you won’t be available outside of these times and even include this on an automated email response.

4. How are you using your diary?

Don’t say “Yes” immediately. Schedule your work to suit all your deadlines. Ultimately, if someone isn’t prepared to wait for you to be available, then they were never “your client” in the first place.

5. Who is in charge?

You are in charge: You can make changes to the people and circumstances you want to. Some clients will get your direct mobile number and you may want to log in on your emails at a weekend. That is your choice!

 

What is the first thing you will change today? Note it down, make it happen, and diarise some “you” time!

 

 

As an added bonus:

• Say “No” or “not quite yet” more often, so you have the time to say “Yes” to the things you want to.
• You don’t have to do everything; can you outsource or delegate more?
• Utilise technology, such as social media scheduling and online diaries, to reduce the admin in your day
• Remember, if a new client won’t wait for you, then they were never your client in the first place
• Being busy means that you are in demand! Use this to your advantage when speaking to clients and new business opportunities.