I have decided to eliminate the word “busy” from my vocabulary. My life is full. I am never too busy to connect with people that bring value and meaning to my life.
One of the greatest benefits and goals of entrepreneurship – when it is planned correctly – is that you have more control over your time.
When you look to add or remove tasks from your calendar – ask yourself:
“What people and activities provide value and meaning to my life / my business?”
This is how I created a FULL life and not a busy one:
Be present wherever you are.* Make this a stated value of your company and your life.
Be intentional about how you manage your calendar and prioritize how you spend your time. (The word INTENTION was my annual theme in 2020. Read more.
Have a clear mission and vision, use those as your barometer. Our Puente and XPM missions are written, published and reviewed frequently. Understand your “WHY”. (I highly recommend the TedTalk and book, Start with Why by Simon Sinek.)
Accept that your to-do list will never be completed and that is okay. Your work day and work week must end and there will always be another day. Shut the computer, turn of the phone, if possible. Keep lists, but learn to put them away. Take time each day/week for yourself, for your family, friends, for non-work related activities. (See #1*)
Seek Harmony in your life. Reject the myth of work-life balance – it sets you up for a teeter-totter of failure. (Read my previous blog on Harmony here – it our 2023 Annual Theme.)
Sleep 7-8 hours at least six days a week! I protect my sleeping hours. If you are tired, you will always feel stressed and like you do not have enough time. If you are rested, you will be more productive! (I have been known to cancel or reschedule morning meetings in the middle of the night if I am struggling with insomnia or ended up going to bed way too late for whatever reason.)
Create a team. Surround yourself with good people – hire out your weaknesses, work in your strengths. If you can’t afford an employee yet, form partnerships or hire subcontractors and interns. (Hiring a good employee is the best investment you can make in your business!)
For those that follow me on social media, you know I always find time for the beach, my family, live music, happy hour, and networking events!
These activities bring me joy and they provide value and meaning to my life. For years, I rarely missed my boys’ soccer games, banquets, band concerts, or performances. My husband and I prioritized date nights and took vacations to visit friends and family. I live in both Michigan and Mexico – coming home for important family holidays and events: Thanksgiving, Christmas and NYE, Paco’s birthday, Diego’s farewell party, my mom’s birthday, and Mother’s Day. Spending time, especially holidays, with my family and friends is one of my core values.*
I hate it when people tell me I am “too busy”. I will always make time and prioritize people and opportunities to connect. It’s all about determining what you value.
