THE JOURNAL

One of the most challenging things for most entrepreneurs is knowing how and when to set boundaries with clients. Setting boundaries is essential for any business owner. It helps continue to grow your business but also helps you to be happy and positive in your daily life.

If you are struggling with your work-life balance, it’s time to draw the line. Here are a few tips on how setting boundaries is vital for your business.

Avoid burnout

If you’re not setting boundaries, your work life can eventually take over your personal life. soon, you’ll feel resentful, burned out, and weary. Work will no longer be fun or rewarding.  It’s time to take a moment and read the signs: Do you spend more time at work than your home life? Are your family and friends mentioning to you that you work too much? Do you check your emails and answer client phone calls or messages during your family time? Worrying what clients will think if you take a much needed break? When was the last time you said no to a client?

Working as an entrepreneur, being your own boss and working your own hours “anytime” is great for productivity. However, too much productivity is the big issue. If your working too much and not setting healthy boundaries between your personal and professional life, well, that will lead to burnout.

empower yourself and learn to say no

Don’t let your clients walk all over you! There is nothing wrong with being productive and providing your clients with the best customer experience. However, you must draw the line and be sure that your clients respect you and your time. SAY NO when you need to. If you feel like you can’t take on extra work, then don’t. If a client wants extra with minimal cost and a quick turnaround time, say no. People are sometimes wary of setting boundaries in business because they don’t want to be perceived as a “difficult” person. But if you’re overwhelmed and stressed out by the sheer amount of tasks you’d have to complete in a day + the chores waiting for you at home, lines must be drawn! No job is too important if it meant sacrificing you’re mental and emotional health.

Utilize your calendar

Big businesses have specific hours of operation so why can’t you?

Build a schedule with hours of operations and stick to it. Your work schedule should be 2 days off and 5 days working. Schedule yourself in 8.5-9 hour shifts with a one hour lunch break. This is the biggest thing we did that changed our work and family life balance in a positive way at Forest Heart. Our business hours (even listed on google) are 9am to 5pm With us being closed on Wednesdays and Sundays. We turn our email notifications off at 5pm every day. Trust us, the client that emailed you at 7pm in the evening during your family time won’t freak out if you wait until the next morning to respond.

In closing, we know It can be challenging to begin setting boundaries in your business. But trust us, you will be much happier and will have healthier relationships if you make the necessary changes. Remember, when you stand firm on your boundaries, most clients will understand and will respect your time. And, while there will be some who don’t and who wholeheartedly expect you to put their lives ahead of your own, you must choose to put yourself first. Your life and your business will thank you for it.