Everyone who runs their own business knows how hard it is to find the time to work on the business – that is the bigger picture planning and implementation involved in growing a business beyond what it is today.
In small business we have to juggle it all – the doing, the managing staff, financials and clients. So when do you find the time to become the chairman of your business, rather than the manager?
From running my own business for 14 years, reading many business books, and combining that with an interest in ‘mindfulness’ and mediation, I believe there are ways to set aside time each day for the purpose of working ‘on’ your business – rather than ‘in’.
Get up early. I mean really early. I get up at 5.30 during the week – but I know many people who get up as early as 4am to get their day started. It does not mean you have to do work at this hour, rather, do something you enjoy that you don’t always have time for due to work commitments. Exercise is the obvious one, but I know those who cook, read, or even paint. Getting up early means you have more time to be creative, relaxed and balanced. For those of you with children it also means some time before the family is up and awake and demanding your attention.
With this creativity comes the freedom to think. When we are pushed for time we are in ‘doing’ mode, not thinking. So when you are enjoying your extra time doing things for you, allow your mind to wander freely, to wherever it wants to take you. More often than not, those thoughts will lead to work, and big picture planning on the steps you need to take.
Create time to implement your new found ideas. That means, make the first hour of your working day dedicated to implementing your big picture ideas. Make the calls, reach out to the right people, or implement that marketing idea. The first hour of your working day should be dedicated to your future.
I am sure you will find the investment in you and working ‘on’ your business rather than in, will fast track your growth and your overall happiness.
Vanessa Stoykov is the founder of No More Practice, and the founder of the parent company, evolution media group in 1999. She has over 20 years’ experience in financial services as both a journalist and business owner. She is an award winning chief executive who is passionate about creating education and communications to help the wealth industry and consumers fulfill their prosperity potential.
