The Best Way to Get Out of a Business Funk
Nov 04, 2024In a recent episode of the "Keep What You Earn" podcast, Shannon delves deep into this issue. Drawing from her six years of experience in running her business, Shannon discusses the cyclical nature of these funks and offers practical solutions to overcome them.
The cornerstone of Shannon's strategy to break free from the funk is a recalibration of her calendar. She starts from scratch, questioning every meeting, task, and time commitment to ensure they align with her priorities and goals. According to Shannon, "Where you spend your time is where your focus goes." This means it's crucial to evaluate if your current schedule reflects your business and personal priorities.
One practical tip involves creating a daily theme. For example, Mondays might be dedicated to team calls and setting weekly intentions, while Tuesdays could be reserved for deep work without interruptions. By segmenting your week into specific focus areas, you can minimize context switching – the mental shift required to move from one task to another – which can drain your energy and productivity.
Incorporating movement and personal time into your daily schedule is another key strategy. Shannon emphasizes the importance of getting up from your desk regularly and engaging in physical activity, whether it’s walking the dog, going to the gym, or simply taking a stroll outside. These breaks benefit your physical health and clear your mind, reduce stress, and boost creativity.
Shannon also touches on the importance of reassessing the frequency and necessity of meetings. For her clients, especially those who are well-established, she reduces the number of regular check-ins and relies more on asynchronous communication tools like Slack. "More isn't always better," she notes, explaining that fewer, more purposeful meetings often lead to greater efficiency and satisfaction for both her and her clients.
Setting boundaries is equally significant. By not taking any calls before 10:00 AM Mountain Time, Shannon ensures that her mornings are reserved for activities that fuel her energy and creativity. This might include walking the dog, engaging in deep work, or simply having some quiet time before the day’s hectic schedule kicks in.
Ultimately, managing your energy is crucial in avoiding and overcoming business funks. Many entrepreneurs, especially those transitioning from a corporate environment, carry over the misconception that a packed calendar equates to productivity. However, this often leads to burnout. Shannon’s approach is to consciously create a schedule that allows for both productivity and downtime, ensuring her energy levels remain balanced.
Feeling stuck in your business is not just common; it's part of the journey. But as Shannon emphasizes, it doesn’t have to derail your progress. By resetting your calendar, incorporating movement and personal time, reassessing the necessity of meetings, and managing your energy more effectively, you can navigate these funks and come out the other side more focused and motivated.
If you’re struggling with a business funk, take a page from Shannon’s playbook. Start from zero, reassess where your time is going, and ensure your schedule aligns with your priorities. In doing so, you’ll not only break free from the funk but also create a more balanced and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey. For more insights and tips on growing your business, saving money in taxes, and simplifying your financial life, be sure to listen to the "Keep What You Earn" podcast. Remember, the journey of entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Take it one step at a time and give yourself the grace to adjust and adapt along the way.
What you'll hear in this episode:
05:51 New employees require decreased check-ins over time.
10:47 Optimize meeting days; flexible Friday work schedule.
12:29 Optimize calendar for energy-efficient time management.
If you like this episode, check out:
3 Ways to Become a Better Small Business Customer
Don't Make This Huge Mistake with Goal Setting
Don’t Stop Playing the Long Game
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The information contained in this podcast is intended for educational purposes only and is not individual tax advice. Please consult a qualified professional before implementing anything you learn.
