How did you turn it off?

By Dana Phillips.

Like many of you, I loved my business. I loved building a field organization, working with my team, and helping others reach their dreams and goals. Moreover, I loved the recognition. It was easy for me to work a lot because I loved what I was doing. It was hard to turn it off. Before long, I realized that I wasn’t spending time with those I loved most or doing the essential things for me. I knew it was time to get some balance back into my life. Here are the three things I did that made the most significant difference.

I began by revisiting my priorities. I made a list of them and put them in order. I knew that my faith and family were the top two. If this were true, why was my business taking over everything? I saw that I was letting my business come first, which wasn’t working for our family or me.

I set office hours. This was the easiest way to let my team know when I would be available for them. I ensured they had all training calls and meetings on their calendar because I knew many of their questions would be answered there. I learned to let phone calls go to voice mail and returned them during my office hours. I realized I was doing many things that weren’t that important to me because I couldn’t say no. I politely quit accepting outside activities just because someone asked me, and I stayed focused on doing those in my passion zone.

I prioritized spending time every day with my kids. From 3:00-6:00 in the afternoon, I spent focused time with the kids. Maybe we did homework, read a book, or drove to an after-school activity. During that time, I let calls go to voice mail and gave my attention to the kids and their needs. After dinner on most evenings, I was on my way to a party, so this was a critical time for us. We also planned fun things to do as a family often. Most weekends were spent at the lake, camping, or a sports tournament.

Will You Say “Yes” to Working Smarter?

The Direct Selling Leaders’ Network is the Facebook group for leaders like you. This social learning community is the premier online community for direct selling leaders, future leaders, and those who want to create their future. Leadership is a way of life, not just a position. Join us as we add new FREE content every week! Recruiting, Getting Your Team to Work, and Tips on Working Smarter, Not Harder. NOT A MEMBER? Please join some of the best leaders in direct sales.