How Raising Kids is like Running a Business

By Amy Englemark

If you have kids you’ll understand that there are times when they need to be disciplined. If they are to grow as little individuals to become outstanding adults they need boundaries. Needless to say, us adults (their parents) don’t always enjoy being the ones who have to follow through with the disciplining.

In family life and in business we need to use discipline. We need to follow through. I liken disciplining our kids to disciplining ourselves when it comes to business. If kids are left to their own devices they will act in ways that will not help them down the road if left unchecked. On a regular basis I have to set boundaries for my kids that make me feel like somewhat of an ogre. I feel like the meany. But I’m on a mission. To produce excellent qualities in my children.

If I want to produce excellent qualities in my business I also need to exert discipline in areas that I would rather avoid. Not everything about being in business for myself comes naturally…but I still have to deal with it. The question is, how will I (and you) choose to tackle those less desirable tasks that require attention in my business? Here are a few examples of “less desirable tasks”:

• Paperwork
• Marketing
• Networking
• Book Keeping
• Budgeting
• And the list goes on…

When you make a point of regularly dealing with your least favorite business tasks you’ll begin to notice you have room to breath and focus on more enjoyable aspects of being in business. Avoiding business “chores” doesn’t do you any good, rather it takes up mental space and halts you in certain ways.

So let’s brainstorm different ways you could complete these tasks.

1. Delegate: If you have employees, give them responsibilities you don’t have time for or simply would rather not focus on. They may be naturally gifted in the area you need help with and anyways, you’re paying them!
2. Outsource help: Many people charge next to nothing to complete certain business tasks for you. All it takes is a quick Google search to track a few willing professionals down.
3. Manage your time more effectively: If you work better in the morning, try tackling your least favorite jobs first to get them out of the way. If you have kids, work around their schedules so you can focus and be more productive.

Don’t forget, disciplining yourself to deal with your less desirable business responsibilities before they get out of hand produces a business you’ll be proud of. When you find a way (and stick with it) to keep on top of what you don’t enjoy, you’re investing in the future of your baby–your business.

Amy

Leave your comments below and let me know how YOU stay on top of your growing “to do”  list.