Achieve Work-Life Balance This Summer

1. Set realistic goals. As a female founder, it's important to set realistic goals for yourself and your business. Trying to accomplish too much in a short period of time is a recipe for burnout. When you're starting out, it's easy to get overextended and try to do too much. But as you grow and scale your business, focus on what you can realistically achieve.
2. Embrace technology. Technology is a great asset when it comes to staying organized and on track. There are a variety of apps and online tools that manage your time, keep track of your tasks, and stay on top of your goals. For example, there are calendar apps that keep track of upcoming deadlines and appointments. There are also task-management apps that track what needs to be done and when. In addition, there are online tools that manage your projects and stay on top of your progress. By taking advantage of these resources, you make the most of your time and get more done.
3. Delegate responsibilities. As any business owner knows, there is limited time in the day. At some point, you must make the decision to outsource or delegate certain tasks to free up your time for more important responsibilities. This can be a tough decision, especially if you are used to doing everything yourself. However, remember that you cannot do everything and still expect to be successful. To succeed, focus on your strengths and delegate the rest.
4. Set boundaries. One of the most important things you can do for your mental health is to set boundaries between work and personal time. It is easy to get sucked into a never-ending cycle of work, with no time for relaxation or fun. Have some separation between the two so you can enjoy your free time without stress. One way to achieve this is to set a specific time each day when you will stop working. Once that time comes, close your laptop, put away your work materials, and focus on something else. Designate certain days or weekends as work-free zones, where you allow yourself to completely disconnect from work. By setting these boundaries, you can learn to better balance your work and personal life, leading to more overall fulfillment.
5. Put a plan in place. Have a clear plan for your business. Knowing what you need to do and when you need to do it will help you stay focused and on track. By taking the time to develop a detailed plan, you can ensure that you're making the most of your time and resources. Additionally, having a plan can help you identify potential obstacles and develop strategies to overcome them.
6. Follow a routine. A daily or weekly routine is an extremely helpful way to stay organized and efficient. By sticking to a set schedule, you make sure that all your tasks are completed in a timely manner. Routines reduce stress levels by providing a sense of structure and predictability. Of course, be flexible and allow for some variation in your routine from day to day. However, having a general plan to follow makes it much easier to stay on track.
7. Take breaks. Take breaks throughout the day, both for your physical and mental health. Your body needs a break from sitting or standing in the same position, and your mind needs a break from work or other stressors. Taking even just a few minutes for yourself makes a big difference in how you feel. Get up and move around at least once an hour and take a few minutes to relax and recharge. Use this time to do something you enjoy, such as reading, listening to music, or spending time outside. When you take care of yourself, you’re better able to take care of others and meet the demands of your day.
8. Ask for help. There is no shame in admitting that you need help. Family, friends, and colleagues are often more than happy to lend a helping hand, but they can’t read your mind. Be proactive and ask for help when you need it. Many people are afraid to ask for help because they don’t want to appear weak or incompetent. But everyone needs help now and then.
9. Take care of yourself. This is the most important tip of all! Take care of your physical and mental health. Eating well, exercising, and getting enough sleep are all crucial for maintaining a healthy balance. When you take care of yourself, you’re more likely to show up for others in a supportive way. Self-care isn’t selfish – it’s essential for being there for the people you love.
10. Join a financial network. As a female financial advisor, you face unique challenges in a male-dominated field. You may find yourself the only woman in the room at networking events or conferences, and you may feel like your voice isn't being heard. If this sounds familiar, join a financial network specifically for women. These networks provide a safe space for women to share their experiences, ask questions, and get advice from their peers. Joining a financial network helps you feel less alone in your career, and gives you the support you need to succeed.

Bridget Grimes and Katie Burke co-founded Equita Financial Network out of a need to fuel business success while empowering other women in the financial services industry. Equita Financial Network was founded for women by women with the goal of helping female founders thrive in a male-dominated industry. We provide everything women need to run a high-quality financial planning firm on their own terms – we just make it a lot easier for them to be successful. Interested to learn more? Reach out to Equita!

Read more articles by Katie Burke, Bridget V. Grimes