Balancing our energy and income needs is at the core of the top challenges introverts and sensitive souls face in their solopreneur business. Let’s challenge some energy vs. income assumptions here.
This balance question came up for me recently when I was wondering about setting bigger goals for my business, but I immediately thought it’s not possible because I was equating growth with more energy output. My brain said no to that. But my business coach reminded me I was making assumptions that it would require more energy, and it was time for some creative thinking.
Growth does not have to equal exhaustion!
Knowing your right priorities brings balance.
It’s too easy to end up scattering our energy, trying so many things to grow a business, and then it leads to exhaustion. I know I can’t work like that, and I don’t want that for you either.
Part of the problem I see in myself and in others is not getting really clear on the right priorities. I have been so guilty of that in the past. I have found a better way to set priorities, and it’s what I help my clients do too.
Your business priorities need to meet ALL THREE criteria:
- Actions that are effective or likely to be effective.
- Are at least not draining, and maybe even energizing or fun.
- Only a small number of priorities, like 3 project priorities per quarter.
Aha, that’s a big thing I just said. Yes it takes effort to find it, but that effort is so worth it.
Knowing those priorities is the question you need to be able to answer in order to be successful in business. And to have balance for your energy.
Finding this sweet spot is doable.
Choosing well is exactly the kind of thing I help my business coaching clients with, often in just one session. We also do this priority setting process together in my business coaching group. What fits your criteria is unique to you and I enjoy drawing out your answers.
Why only 3 priorities at a time? This:
Then there’s the getting it done part. 🤓
Umm, tricky sometimes.
Clear priorities that align for you is definitely part of the puzzle to stay motivated. But even then, it can still be hard to stay focused and get the most important things done.
Ya know? I so get it. Luckily it’s been better for me the last few years.
I’ve been able to stay with the priorities and get them done. Feels so nice!! I’m enjoying more flow thanks to calm clarity of priorities, aligning projects with my energy, and having camaraderie with kindred spirits.
Because I know camaraderie is so helpful, I include weekly co-working time for all my clients, as a time to come together and do the work alongside each other over Zoom. Co-working energy is kinda magical for us. I’m also there for any stuck places that might arise.
Think about what helps you get things done. Name it for yourself. And if you want more focus in your life, see if there’s a way to do a little bit more of that.
Free Gift: Guided Grounding Before Focus Time
To help you get ready for some concentrated focus time, I’ve created a recording to clear the cobwebs in the mind, and bring some calm which leads to better focus.
It’s on Insight Timer, a free (and ad-free) app with many recordings you might like, from guided meditation to supportive talks.
► Brief Grounding Before Focus Period
(5 min, by Val Nelson)
