Finding the balance in life and business

I absolutely love what I do, and my business is expanding and growing right now, so taking time out is not really something I want to do. It is however, something I need to do. Often I find myself thinking that I just want to get things done, tick more off my list, and keep working, but there is this voice telling me that I need to slow down and get some space between the doing. And, I know this is important.

Being driven is a wonderful thing, and so often I get people commenting on how much I achieve, and how well I've done. But really, what use is all of that if I'm going to end up unwell. It's absolutely no use at all.

FIND THE BALANCE
Lately I seem to be thinking a lot about about getting my life back into balance. With my recent product launch, taking my workshops on the road, and the fact that my business is only a little over 12 months old, there has been a lot to do. And, at times, it feels as though life is a bit out of control. 

PUT SPACE BETWEEN DOING
A few years ago I was really good at putting space between activity. Whether it was coming home from an outing to sit with a cup of tea and ponder my thoughts, time to meditate, or time to sit with a book, I really enjoyed the space I created. Over the last couple of years I've not been practising this, and I now realise that I have gotten into the habit of always doing, doing, doing, and I don't like it. Realising this, I'm now on a mission to create space once more.

SWITCH OFF
One thing that has been helpful lately for me is switching off. I find myself constantly looking at my phone or computer, and with social media, there are always new notifications coming through from my Facebook page, Facebook group, Instagram, Pinterest or Twitter. So, what I have been doing over the last couple of weeks, is having a few hours at a time when I don't look at my devices. Doing just this gives me a feeling of having some time out.

DELEGATE WHERE POSSIBLE
In a start-up business, which mine is, I need to be careful with expenses. Before I can outsource too much I need the income to support that. I'm very fortunate to have an awesome Virtual Assistant who has just this week taken over a number of administrative tasks. It feels wonderful to have her help, that's for sure.

Next on my list is to look at what I can delegate at home. With being so focused on my business, there is little time or energy for housework or gardening. And, of course these things just keep piling up, they don't do themselves do they! 

MAKE TIME FOR FRIENDS & OUTINGS
I've always been good with keeping in regular contact with friends, and I continue to do this when I can. Catching up with a friend for morning tea or a glass of wine to have a good laugh and share what's been going on is something I really, really enjoy. 

Getting out and about to events and community goings on is not something I'm particularly good at, but I'd like to be. Yesterday, Craig and I, took the day off to head into the annual Tauranga Jazz Festival held here each year. It was such a lovely day out, wandering around without rushing, having lunch in the park, and listening to the music.

I guess we are all in 'life school' aren't we? If you're finding it challenging to get balance in your life I hope you've found some of these thoughts helpful. And remember, there are many of us in the same position, so talk to others, and start thinking about how you can ease up on yourself a little. 

Have a wonderful Easter. 

​Kathryn x