Unlock Your Free Time: Strategies for Balanced Living
Finding balance as a female entrepreneur and mom boss can feel like an uphill battle, especially when it comes to using your precious free time wisely.
It’s a common scenario: you’ve meticulously crafted your schedule to carve out some free time, but then find yourself at a loss on how to use it. What the hell do you do now?
I’ve been there myself, and I’ve helped clients navigate these waters, too.
When I first began balancing my schedule, free time was a foreign concept. My default mode was work, work, work.
Even when I had a moment to breathe, the idea of simply doing nothing felt alien.
It took conscious effort to break this habit and embrace rest. Scheduling became my lifeline—booking a massage, planning a solo walk, or arranging time with friends became non-negotiable appointments. These actions provided accountability, forcing me to step away from work and focus on self-care.
According to a study cited by the Mayo Clinic, men who get adequate sleep live about five years longer, and for women, it's two years longer. This isn't just about longevity; it’s about quality of life. Rest replenishes us, making us better partners, parents, and professionals.
One of my clients exemplified this struggle. She was perpetually overwhelmed and would frequently cancel her planned leisure activities, fearing that taking a break might diminish her worth. It was as if rest was an indulgence she couldn’t afford. We tackled this with a multi-faceted approach:
Scheduling with Consequences: If she missed a self-care appointment, there was a consequence—something meaningful enough to deter her from canceling. It wasn’t punitive but rather a gentle reminder of her commitment to herself.
Identifying Costs of Neglect: We brainstormed the specific costs she was paying by not taking care of herself. These included strained relationships with her family, neglected household chores, and a noticeable decline in her health. Visualizing these consequences helped underscore the importance of self-care.
Rediscovering Joy: We spent time dreaming together. What would a perfect day look like? Who would she spend it with, and what activities would they enjoy? By focusing on what truly brought her joy, we shifted her mindset from viewing leisure as unproductive to seeing it as essential for her well-being.
These strategies are not just theoretical; they are practical steps you can implement in your own life.
Balancing productivity with rest is an ongoing process, and it’s okay to need help along the way. Remember, prioritizing yourself is not a sign of weakness but a testament to your strength. By scheduling intentional self-care, understanding the costs of neglect, and dreaming about what brings you joy, you can create a balanced and fulfilling life.
