Wednesday, August 4, 2010

Maintaing Distance Between Personal and Professional

It's inevitable, the two worlds must collide. No matter how hard we try, eventually our personal and professional lives will collide, especially if you are managing your business from your home. So, how then do we keep each from being a distraction from the other?

First and foremost, plan each day to perfection. Have a game plan for what you want to accomplish that day, write it out, and list action steps that must be taken to achieve these goals. As you accomplish one, mark it off the list. Do not move onto another until you have made an attempt to complete the previous ones.

Secondly, if at all possible, have a specified time and place for work and make a serious effort not to allow any distractions. Separate yourself from any person, place, or thing that can keep you from achieving that days goals. Make it plain that, although you are your own boss, you are working and can not be interrupted during business hours. I suggest working 45 minutes and taking a 15 minute break to stretch your legs, use the restroom, replenish your coffee, or whatever and then get back to work.

Third, and perhaps my biggest personal struggle, when you sit down to work, avoid giving thought to any financial, physical, or emotional things that you may be going through. While those things may be of definate concern, they will only keep you from focusing on your impending success and derail your entire day.

Your professional and personal lives can coexist without being a distraction if you plan in advance and set aside time for both. Remember, you are in control of your time and talents. Make them both work for you.

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