We all look forward to summer because of the weather and the less grueling schedule. But that less hectic schedule usually means that your kids are out of school which can cause anxiety around your work schedule.
Here are some tips that have helped set my summers up for success.
Take on Less Clients
One advantage to owning your own business is that you choose how much you want to work. If you have a financial goal, how much you work along with the rate you decide to charge is something to take into consideration. What I’ve found helpful during the summer months when my kids are home with me is to take on less clients and projects than I do during the school year. This helps me to free up some time for my kids and I to create those unforgettable Summer memories..
Figure Out What Your New Work Schedule Will Be
Are you shifting to working at night when your kids are sleeping or getting an extra hour or two in the early morning? What used to be peaceful and quiet during the day is most likely going to change so altering your schedule for workflow efficiency is going to be beneficial as a game changer at keeping the headaches at bay!
Keeping the Kids Busy
Don’t feel like you need to keep the kids entertained at all times. I start looking into summer camps and local daytime activities to get them out of the house, having fun and burning energy. While they are making friends and utilizing their social skills, we can get the work done that we need to. Plus, you can plan ahead for summer camp days and create a list of priority items or things that have been sitting on the back burner to sit down and work on. It’s a win-win for everyone!
Plan Ahead
In anticipation of working less, get ahead as if you were going on vacation. There are so many things you can get ahead on to decrease the daily stressors and focus on client- only work. A few of the tasks that I like to prep in advance are planning social media content, scheduling emails and writing blogs for June, July and August. Not having to scramble to fit those in your busy schedule will be so helpful.
Outsource
If you have been thinking about outsourcing, now is a great time to start! I am always a fan of outsourcing no matter how big or how small the projects or hours are. You will be amazed at how much time and energy you save. And if you need a little help around the house, you can outsource drycleaning, house cleaning, and even planning ahead to meal prep will give you time back in your day to spend with your family. Try it and let me know how it goes!
Give Yourself Grace
Your summer schedule might be a bit all over the place, but THAT IS OKAY. You will be exhausted, frustrated, and at times, unmotivated but you are building a business while raising kids- Not everyone can do that! Remember why you started your business and stick to what feels right.
