The busy but broke phenomenon is not limited to new entrepreneurs. It affects entrepreneurs of all experience levels. It’s a non-discriminatory state of being. We feel it without regard to our actual income. And we are all vulnerable to how busy keeps you broke trap.
Ever felt like you have so many tasks to do and not enough time to get them done? Even worse, feel like you are doing everything you should be doing and yet your business does not seem to be growing? Yeah, because busy keeps you broke.
I remember when I told my coach that I was so busy that I didn't have time to send out a newsletter. As soon as the words were out of my mouth I realized what a mistake I was making, Back then things were pretty chaotic and my business was in a constant roller coaster of ups and downs.
Can you relate?
She said to me, “How do you expect to take on any new clients if you’re not making any offers? And what the heck ARE you doing all day?”
Ouch! Good point and good example of how busy keeps you broke, right? That's when I decided to make the following shifts to feel more in control of my time and my business:
1. Block out creative time on your calendar. This one is a life changer! Creativity is usually the first thing to go out the window when we start to get "busy". But this is the heart of your business. Have a dedicated space each week to let your creativity flow and dream up ideas for your content, offerings, strategies, graphics--wherever the muses take you.
2. Chunk related tasks together so that you can maintain your focus. For example, Tuesdays and Fridays are my Content/Writing days. This is when I write emails and plan out my offers and marketing plans. Mondays and Thursdays are my client days. This is when I book my client calls. Fridays are also for tying up any loose ends or learning something new.
3. Create space to take care of yourself. When we are in "busy" mode it feels like there is no time for this; however, this is when you need it the most. It doesn't have to be anything lavish. You can begin with just taking some time to get outside and take in some sun or feel your feet in the grass and breathe. I often get the best ideas when I have taken the time out to do something like this.
4. Stand firm in your defense of your new schedule. Things will come up to challenge your resolve. “Urgencies” will come up. Clients will need you urgently, a team member will let you down, a family member will get sick. Something will happen to take you off track. It has happened to me too and, generally speaking, it has never been worth making the exception.
And for the times when it is unavoidable (such as an ill loved one), don’t sweat it! Just get right back into the groove as soon as you can.
Which of these will you implement to have more of that spacious feeling in your weeks?
It is so worth it! Before you know it, you will feel more in control of your time and your business and will start to see the results!
And when in doubt, or when you are wondering if you should add one more thing/tactic/strategy to your routine, remember…
It is always more impactful to DO LESS better and with consistency than to spread yourself too thin.
Let me know in the comments what shifts you will be making, if any.
