Getting organised is a tough ask for many people, especially when you are a Mums in Business and have kids in tow! Being focused and organised can be done, and with a business to run, it is absolutely essential.
So, how do we do it?
Physically clean and tidy - First thing is to physically clean and tidy all of your desk and office. Put all of your papers to one side in a big pile and clean your computer, phone and accessories (not forgetting the desk itself). For those who have a computer on the kitchen bench or similar, this might be a great time to re-evaluate making an office space.
Organise your time – Next you need to work out a time schedule for your days and week. This is also commonly called a DMO- Daily Method of Operation. The aim of this exercise is to ensure that you have set aside and blocked out work time. Investing in a daily diary is a great idea. In your dairy
a. Block out time for your essential personal tasks like family time, pick up and drop off of kids, any cooking, bed times etc. Ensure you block out time for you as well.
b. Then, with what you have left over, start choosing blocks of time that you can set aside to work. These may be whole days or part of days depending on your circumstances.
· Make a list all the tasks that you should be doing on a daily and weekly basis.
· Enter what tasks you will complete in each blocks of time. I.e. Answer emails 9am-10am Tues – Thurs, Process orders 3 times a week.
c. Next, after you’ve blocked out your times, put them up where you can see them! Make sure your family can see them as well, and ensure that your work times are ok with everyone and don’t clash.
Focus your mind! – Now it’s time to focus on your mind! Having a positive mind set is crucial to success in business. A great way to clear your mind and to focus is by writing affirmations. An Affirmation consists of the following:
- Visualize your goals and dreams, picture yourself actually achieving your goals
- Specific details for each of your goals
- A step by step plan
Set some goals - Once you’ve defined your affirmations, it’s time to set some goals. It’s a great idea to set some short and long term goals.
- Follow the acronym – SMART- Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Realistic and Timed
- Always make sure your goals are in the present tense and have a timeframe on them
- Review your goals every 90 days and amend if necessary
Mums in Business members have access to a downloadable goal setting chart, action plans, further in depth resources and information plus how to implement these tools into your business, on the Business Essentials website.
A great way to help you successfully juggle being a MUM and an Entrepreneur would be to chat to other business mums just like you on our free mums in business forum. Get your free access by going to http://www.mumsinbusiness.net where you can also discover proven, easy-to-apply strategy that mum’s just like YOU are using every day to start & grow profitable businesses!
From Alison Basson – Mums in Business, for mums and women who are serious about business
More than a mum, I’m a mum in business
