How temptingly tantalising, escaping the 9 to 5 drudge to become your own boss…
Yep, don’t think I haven’t been there, stuck in that boring predictable routine of employment, what a nightmare.  But – and this is where we get serious – the reality of running your own company can be mighty demanding, especially on your time.
Ok, let’s be honest and make some fairly blunt statements: we entrepreneurs, company directors, general managers, call us what you will, we’re all marching in the same direction…to that sparkling little jewel at the top, called success. It’s your own special bubble and it’s not going to get easily blown away. Not if you’re made of the right material, the raw and solid stuff.
So far, so good; your self-made man dream is bursting to leap out and I’m not here to forestall you. Yet, there comes a time in every entrepreneur’s life when a voice inside screams: ‘Enough!’Nothing wrong in that…providing you listen, and take action.
Actually, having a good balance between your professional and private life will increase your motivation and productivity. There you have it in a nutshell, a healthy work/life balance. Er…how?
I am going to give you just 3 useful tips. There are others but no point piling it all on you at once:
Set achievable targets for different aspects of your work and personal life.

• increase the size of your database
• create a business online news letter
• write half a dozen blogs
• invite your contacts to receive free tips each month

• plan a holiday with friends or family
• decorate or renovate a room in your home
• check your personal wealth.
• arrange a day trip out with family or friends
• As master of your own destiny you have the distinct advantage of being able to tailor your time to your own needs. Take time out of the Mon-Fri 9-5 week to do something leisurely. Whoopee, great:

• enjoy a lengthy lunch with friends or your family
• pursue a daytime sporting activity once a week
• go for a walk in your local park or neighbourhood

• reschedule your working hours
• plan your hours and breaks
• keep your mind in focus.
• Block out your time so that you can meet one or two of these goals, whether this is related to your business or personal life.

• book an hour to ask your staff for their business opinions, ideas
• plan a set time each week to review your marketing strategy

• work a bit harder at being a great parent or friend
• go shopping, just for yourself

Stick to this strategy for about 3 months; you may be surprised at how your working hours become more productive. The aim is to get you shutting your office door gently, but happily.
How cool is that. Can’t stop, I’m off to see my friends at the sports club oh, and on to a great family barbecue afterwards. Wey, hey…it’s business as usual tomorrow.
Find out more about Okappy Job Management, how it can save you time and improve your work life balance.