If you ask any successful entrepreneur how they managed to achieve their level of success, they’ll likely tell you that it was through hard work and dedication. While this may be true to some extent, remember that there’s more to life than just work. In fact, many entrepreneurs fail to achieve work-life integration, which can lead to burnout, depression, and a host of other problems.
According to a study, 25% of entrepreneurs work more than 60 hours per week. That’s already 20 more hours compared to an average full-time worker. On top of the 60 hours they’re already working, entrepreneurs also have to deal with the constant stress of running a business and trying to live a happy and healthy life outside their companies.
Many entrepreneurs are also constantly chasing new opportunities and neglecting their personal lives. They would take on new projects without considering how these would impact their work-life balance. As a result, their health and relationships suffer.
So, how can busy entrepreneurs achieve work-life integration? Here are some tips:
Create a Schedule for Work and Health Errands
For entrepreneurs, work-life integration can seem like an impossible goal since there are only so many hours in the day, and often, work takes priority. However, it is possible to create a schedule that includes work and time for health errands. This way, you won’t be taking your health for granted.
Chances are, you already keep a calendar that concludes your schedule and tasks for the day as an entrepreneur. But while filling your calendar with work-related tasks, make sure to include time for important health errands like going to the dentist and taking a yoga class. Set a notification so you won’t forget.
For example, schedule an hour once every six months to schedule a dental appointment for a dental cleaning or a filling. If you need your dentist to replace missing teeth, avoid postponing this, as this can affect your confidence and how you look. It would be best to find a dentist offering emergency dental services to address dental emergencies immediately.
The same goes for other essential health errands. If you know you need to go to the gym three times a week, schedule it in your calendar and stick to it. The key is to be consistent with your schedule to integrate your work and personal life without sacrificing your health.
Delegate Tasks Effectively
Entrepreneurs should know when to ask for help. You can’t do everything alone, and delegation will help you focus on the most critical tasks while someone else takes care of the rest. Doing so will also give you more time for personal errands and activities.
When delegating tasks, delegate them to people who are qualified and trustworthy. Don’t hesitate to train them properly to do the job effectively. Moreover, know when and how to delegate and when to do the task yourself.
If a task is something you struggle with or take a long time to complete, then it’s probably best to delegate it to someone who can handle it more efficiently. If you’re so bogged down with work that you struggle to make time for health and dental appointments, it’s probably time to start delegating some of your tasks. Remember, delegating means giving up some control to make your life more manageable.
Establish Physical Boundaries Between Work and Personal Life
Chances are, work and personal life are constantly bleeding into each other. It is often tempting to work long hours and neglect taking care of yourself. However, it is crucial to make time for yourself, even if it means taking a few hours out of your work day. This will help you avoid burnout and maintain your health in the long run.
It helps to create a physical space in your home dedicated for work. Consider turning an extra room where you can set up a home office so you stay away from personal distractions while working. If you don’t have extra space, setting up a workstation in a quiet corner of your house also works.
It also helps to set office hours. Let your family and friends know when you are working so they won’t disturb you. If possible, put a sign on your door or a Do Not Disturb sign on your desk to let people know when you are unavailable.
During your office hours, avoid doing personal errands as much as possible. This way, you get to focus on work and finish your tasks for the day. Once you’re done with work, make sure to spend some time with your family and friends to recharge, relax and ensure you are not taking your loved ones for granted.
Entrepreneurs like you need to be creative and organized to make time for work and personal life. By following the tips above, you can achieve a healthy balance between work and personal life.
