Tonight, I had planned to relax. Having acquired several new management clients in the past few weeks and presented to handful of groups (in addition to the forthcoming presentation this Wednesday at the Business Women’s Forum), I felt like it was time to put my feet up. It is Sunday after all.
But, like many of us experience in business… #*$^ happens. On this particular evening, my plans got derailed with a setback occurring with the launch of the second module of the joint venture, Social Media Jump Start Kit. To accompany its release, I had planned to write my blog about LinkedIn, but, due to recent developments, we may push the launch back a day or two.
Two years ago, I would have struggled to devise a timely and relevant blog because I would put so much pressure on myself to complete a stellar blog, no matter what happened. In fact, I’m not sure how many of you have noticed that I’ve cut my blog from twice a week to once a week – a decision I made a few weeks ago when things started to get busy.
But now, I realize that those standards I established – the pressure I put on myself – is unnecessary and sometimes even counterproductive. While I still work long hours and still strive for the absolute best in everything I do, I realize that sometimes, I just have to let my foot off the gas.
It’s not only OK to take a break – it’s fundamental for continuing at this pace. Moreover, in order for me to properly serve my clients, I need to be refreshed and energized, not burnout and exhausted. As the search for work/life balance continues, my latest findings seem to indicate that slow and steady wins the race.
I really enjoyed the article Rachel. To the point yet personal. I talk about self-care all the time in therapy and for the most part, but not always perfectly, I do the things I need to do to take care of myself. If we don't take care of ourselves, how can we help others and bring our A game? During times of growth, it is easy to forget to do this, but your article is a great reminder!
Well said, Kristin. Thank you! Self-care doesn't always have to be a trip to the spa, either (although that's nice). It can be as simple as curling up with a good book or taking a bath. Just some down time!
I can relate to this. Often in business the biggest pressure comes from ourselves. It is important to stop and let things be because often they are urgent only to us. Now back to work! Hehe
Very true! I know I personally put a lot of pressure on myself. I think a lot of business owners do. We have a natural drive or we wouldn't be in business! But, at the same time, we need to know when to turn it off a bit.
Rachel - I hear ya! My husband and I are having these discussions now: why did I go into business if I don't take any time to enjoy my life? So, Saturday, I grabbed a book and read. ALL day. And it wasn't a business related book. Yesterday I did no work at all until last night when I got myself organized for the week.
My intentions for the UBC were 1 blog post/day, and have backed off to 4 or 5 days/ week, which is still way more than my usual 1/week. We have to let our business support and enhance the lives we want, not the other way around.
Go, girl! (or maybe, Don't Go, in this case!)
Amy K
I think we have to remind ourselves - frequently - to enjoy our entrepreneurship! 🙂