Do you feel like you’re always working?
If you’re like most online businesswomen I hear from, your work week creeps well beyond 40 hours most weeks. The irony is that you still feel like you’re underachieving, even though you’re working your ass off!
You dream of working far fewer hours while still building your business, but it seems like an impossibility.
You’ve heard me talk so much about success without sacrifice that you’re ready to entertain the possibility that you can have your nights, weekends, and holidays to yourself and still create the thriving business you really want.
If you want to build, grow, and sustain a thriving online business — while having a life outside of your work — keep reading.
First, Know You’re Not Alone
I see the tendency to overwork at every stage of the business-building process, from new entrepreneurs who put in ridiculous hours and may or may not be seeing results to more established business owners who have created systems (or none at all!) that require an intense schedule to maintain.
One of two things usually happens:
Sad Scenario A: You can’t accomplish your overly optimistic to-do list and wind up feeling like a complete loser/failure, leading to overwhelm and possible paralysis.
Sad Scenario B: You work long hours and let your business take over your life because you are a Winner who will accomplish everything she set out to do No Matter What.
I hate to see either happen to you!
This is why I want you all to know that it’s absolutely possible to make a weekly, monthly, and yearly plan that allows you to work toward your big business goals in around 30 hours per week.
Here’s how…
Stop Working so F*cking Hard
Here’s the truth, plain and simple: You don’t have to work so f*cking hard.
Don’t get me wrong; I’m all about putting in the work to serve your clients and grow your business, but never at the long-term expense of your health, family, happiness, or any other priorities you may have.
If you’re consistently working 40–60 hours (or more!) each week plus nights and weekends, or if you think you need to work that much to earn a six-figure income, I can guarantee you’re doing something wrong.
Click to TweetIf you think you have to work ridiculous hours, you’re doing something wrong.Yes, you read that right! If you’re regularly putting in that much time or think you must to hit your next big business goal, you’re doing something wrong.
It simply isn’t good for you or your business, isn’t sustainable in the long term, and frankly isn’t necessary.
So what’s the answer?
The good estimate I use with all of my clients is 30 hours per week. If, when you’re working, you’re really working with your brain fully engaged, this is more than enough time. In fact, your brain simply can’t do much more and consistently do a good job
Does this mean you can’t work 40 hours on an occasional week? Of course not. Some weeks are busier than others; just know that you must balance over-working with under-working to allow your brain to recover.
If you find yourself often working 40 hours or more, you’re likely wasting time being ineffective, scattered, and unfocused — and probably working on the wrong things.
Work Smart and Stop Wasting Time
If you’re serious about growing your business and earning great money doing the work you love, you have to take a long, hard look at how you work and get clear — and I mean SPECIFIC — on what you need to do to reach your long-term goals.
It’s All About Planning and Structure
One of the glaring problems that crops up over and over again with many business owners is the lack of smart strategic planning for the growth of their businesses. Also missing: the structure and systems required to achieve the goals they wish to achieve.
You may be clear on your short-term goals and have tactics for keeping up with your day-to-day work, and that’s a great place to be in the beginning.
But you’re probably a lot less clear about what exactly it takes to go from making a few thousand dollars a month to earning $10k month, a true, sustainable income that pays your business expenses, covers taxes, and pays you a living wage and then some (so you can save for the future, a great pair of shoes, or a trip you’re dying to take).
To get to that point in your business, you need clarity to the task level, down to the gnat’s ass. Without it, you’re likely working away haphazardly and without direction, which means you’re working harder and more than you actually need to.
Become an Efficiency Guru
If you know me at all, you know I’m a BIG fan of efficiency. The kind that comes from getting super clear on every single thing you do, why you’re doing it, and how it benefits your business in the end.
For me, that means every minute I work serves a purpose towards building a business that supports the life I want. I personally don’t do anything — not a single task, no matter how small — that doesn’t fit my vision, and especially not just to push harder or make more money. What a waste of time, energy, and creativity!
No More Screwing Around
While it’s true that creating the business of your dreams takes a lot of hard work, it really doesn’t have to take up your whole life.
If want to create a business that really works for you and your lifestyle (Yes, you can have both a LIFE and a thriving business!), it’s time to hold yourself to a higher standard standard.
That means setting boundaries around your work day (and keeping them), creating action-based goals that benefit your bottom line, and saying no to the tasks that aren’t in line with your vision.
When you commit to working this way, the entire flow of your day changes. You can spend more time creating, writing, travelling, and getting those monthly massages you’ve been promising yourself for years. You’re able to serve your clients while still caring for yourself and your family.
Most of all, you stay inspired, motivated, and energized by your business. And it feels so good!
I’d Love to Hear from You
My favorite part of writing this blog is reading your comments! Tell me…
How many hours per week do you work? Does it feel like too much?
If you are working too much, what do you think is the biggest reason why?
If you aren’t working too much, what advice do you have for someone who finds themselves constantly overworking?
Regardless of how things are now, how many hours would you like to work? And what would have to change to make that a reality for you?
I can’t wait to hear your thoughts and stories in the comments below!
This is exactly what I’ve been thinking about lately! I’m working on developing a system that works for me. Thanks for the encouragement!
Needed to hear this today. I need to learn how to work for efficiently. Just because you are busy doesn’t mean you are productive.
So true, Elizabeth. Busy does not mean productive! I know a lot of busy people who don’t get anything done, and that’s just a waste of time! Definitely start noticing where you’re wasting time — either on unnecessary tasks or by not knowing what or how to do something — and then focus your efforts on trimming that fat. Bit by bit, you’ll work smarter and have more time for life!
It’s a good thing to be thinking about, Judy! Definitely find an approach that works for you — because good hours are possible!
Got rid of the to-do list…Bill Gates doesn’t have one.
I Decide what my three most important things are the night before for the next day.
Focus on those 3.
It all boils down to daily habits and good boundaries ( like you said “say no”)
I love your column Jenny. I’ve been on your list for quite a while now. If you ever want to partner on a project, I think we would be a good match.
Businesscoachpaula.com
You do good work.
Glad you’ve been able to master this for yourself, Paula! And thank you for the kind words!
What I’m really appreciating about this post is confirmation that more working harder/longer doesn’t necessarily mean more success! I started my business working 2 days a week 11 years ago, and have naturally aimed for the magic 30 hours as it grew. Working long into the evenings just meant I got more tired, not more productive! Thanks for saying it like it is, Jenny!
Exactly, Hanna! More hours and more effort doesn’t necessarily mean more success. In small ways it can be true, but in a global way it’s just not true! I’m glad you’ve stuck at the 30 hours because you’re right, if you’re really working, you can’t put in more hours than that without productivity tanking. Glad to have you here!
I’m basically on a 30-hour-or-less schedule by necessity. Compared to when I was able to work longer hours, my business isn’t currently growing at any appreciable rate. . . so I’ll be very curious to read about how to hit those markers (a $5000 month would be lovely at this point, actually!) without putting in more time.
Good to hear you’ve got good hours happening. I’ll be sharing more about all of this in future posts and webinars, but the gist of how to get to that next level (whatever that next level is for anyone, $5k, $10k, $1M,…) is to think smarter about what you’re doing. Each of us knows what it takes to get to where we are now (even if that’s $0). To get to that next level, we have to do something different from what we’re doing now. Not more hours; just smarter, more strategic work… every step of the way.
Thanks for your blog Jenny! I know you’re right. I’m working too hard, but I’m terrified of having to go back to corporate. I only have until December to figure this out or it’s back to the cubicle and I don’t want that. If that happens, I’ll be working even more hours than I am now and will possibly have to give up my business.
P.S. How do I get my picture next to my comment?
Renee, gravatar.com is where you setup the photo…
You’ve got a beautiful website. If you want to buddy-up and email around some ideas, check out my site and let me know, we don’t have any overlap and sometimes that fresh insight can be priceless.
Deb
When you’re working “hard,” as yourself if all of that hard work is productive work. Is what you’re doing directly impacting your bottom line or do you know how it directly impacts your bottom line? Or are you just staying busy because you’re afraid to stop? (Like tornado-ing, as Bev teaches my clients in Make It Work Online.)
Make sure you have a clear plan that you know works (I know you have this plan!), then stick to it. Do the work you know you’re meant to do and keep at it…. Stick to that plan, do the work. You can do this!
Definitely one of those posts that really hits home, Jenny. As I work on figuring out how my business will work and what my days will look like once baby girl gets here, I know I can’t keep up with the pace I’ve been running with so far. (Even 30 hours a week is gonna be a stretch for at least the first few months).
So I appreciate you helping me keep things in perspective. Especially with this gem – “I personally don’t do anything – not a single task, no matter how small – that doesn’t fit my vision, and especially not just to push harder or make more money. What a waste of time, energy, and creativity!”
That will definitely be something I’ll keep in my back pocket to remind myself what matters and what doesn’t. Thanks for the nudge!
Yes, Jenna! Your soon to be much more limited time will require you to be even more strategic about how you use your time, energy, and creativity. I feel like this is one of the big gifts I got from having chronic Lyme and being so tired for the past few years. In order to keep paying the household bills, I had to work. But I had to be super smart about what I was doing because there was only so much juice to give the business. This is an exciting time for you not just because of the baby but also because of what it will do for you and your business!
Hi Jenny, YES to this!!
“But for those of you who are like me and want to have a life outside of your work while still caring about your clients, helping people, and creating a successful, thriving business… I’m talking to you.”
How many hours per week do you work?
40+, not getting results I want yet and then rebel and don’t work enough. Doesn’t feel good.
If you are working too much, what do you think is the biggest reason why?
I’m not SPECIFIC enough – on what I need to do to reach my long-term goals.
Regardless of how things are now, how many hours would you like to work? And what would have to change to make that a reality for you?
30 hrs/wk sounds amazing, making $100K+.
What would I have to change to make that a reality for me?
Learn from an experienced mentor/teacher who can help me direct my efforts and commit to applying everything I learn
Learn strategic planning for the growth of my business. Create the structure and systems required to achieve the goals I wish to achieve.
I love that the questions at the bottom of this post helped you see what your next steps are, Melissa! Sounds like it’s time to find an experienced mentor or teacher to help you do the right things in your biz so it will hit your bottom line like you want it to.
I am a member of this choir, Jenny.
25 hours is my personal utopia and I built my revenue model on 20 hours. Of course, I don’t always hit it, as I am in the growth phase, but I know that when things start cooking I’ll be able to resist booking 40 hours (or more) a week just to keep the money flowing or because I am scared it will all disappear.
My business is built to support my life; I won’t jeopardize my life trying to run someone else’s type of business.
There are absolutely phases where we go through longer hours (or shorter hours) deepening on what’s happening in the business. That’s totally okay. But making it a habit is a terrible idea! Sounds like you’ve found a great balance and like me, value your business as it supports your life! Love that.
I just had a conversation with a client about this very thing. She was feeling guilty about reading a fiction book at 10 pm because she thought she “should” be reading a business book. Needless to say, it caused her to create a whole story around Thailand and chasing wi fi…I’ll have to write about it one of these days, she has quite the imagination.
But you’re right, we have to find balance. I have decided to not do certain things that everyone else is doing because I am trying to create a business to support my lifestyle, not make my business my life.
I must admit, I could be a lot better with the systems and creating standard operating procedures, but I am doing a lot better with it and leveraging the time and expertise of VAs. #babysteps Thank you so much Jenny for always providing great information and stimulating conversation.
Our brains definitely need down time. In fact, we are more creative and more effective when we give it down time. Glad you impressed that upon your client!
Just the other day I posted the words, ” Revenue Generating Activities!” To remind myself to stay focused on the money making “ish!” I think I have gotten so used to just running in circles working for others (being productive yet overly busy) I have developed this type of working style. I am committed to focusing more on tasks that will increase my bank account. Best wishes to you all!!
Love that focus, Dionne! The more your business grows, the more important this will be. Keep it up!
Hi Jenny! You know I’m with you on this one all the way and love to shout about it from the rooftops since I coach women pulling back from burnout. We were just talking about it today in our power group – the hustle that needn’t exist. The thing I’m working on to keep myself on task with my 28hrs p/w goal is looking into how best to leverage VA support. I find that what puts me over the top in terms of hours is studying/courses and want to be more intentional about building that into my day.
It is a lot to think about and juggle, adding on courses and learning to grow your biz. Sounds like you’re doing good work both for yourself and encouraging other to do the same. Keep it up!
Thanks for te post Jenny. I’ve been thinking about this a lot. I’ve been spending time during the Summer catching up on reading, revising my goals. I’ve worked fewer hours over the Summer on the business (because of kids’ on Summer break) but have much more clarity about what I need to focus on and ‘why?’ going forward. And, the ‘why?’ is so important, I think, because that’s where the productivity comes from.
I’m curious, Debbie – Did you get any more clear on your why? What or how has that shifted things for you?
Hi Jenny, always had my ‘big why’ in mind but I’ve dug deeper into that to peel back the layers. It’s brought up loads of stuff and result has been that I have much more focus. And, with those tasks I don’t like but need to do to achieve my goals – I now just get on and do them. I relate them back to my ‘why’ and see them as the stepping stones along the way.
Love this, Debbie! Way to keep at it!
Hi Jenny,
Great article and a subject dear to my heart! I’ve developed a system and a course called Feng Shui Time Management and I use the principles in that which come from decades of strategizing how to get myself out of overwhelm and stressful situations. Thank you for your Making It Work Online course and all that you do!!
Hugs,
Karen
Always happy to hear of other women blitzing overwhelm, minimizing stress, and working no harder than necessary. Keep it up, Karen!
Thanks for this wake up call, Jenny. The art of a good work-life balance can sometimes be difficult to master. When I was in my twenties working for other people, especially for women, I looked at them and wondered, “Does she have a life I would want?” I’d rather have my staff see me enjoying my role as CEO, meeting with industry leaders, delegating whenever I can, making time for my family, and generally working smart rather than hard. I believe they would prefer to see us thriving than working night and day without any balance. Otherwise what are they aspiring to?
Great point and good insights, Julia. It’s funny how wise our youngerselves really are 🙂
I know that I am actually working too few hours right now but I am in surrender mode as my family needs me. With a new little granddaughter and babysitting and my father about to move away from this life I cope by keeping my priorities straight. Wonderful article as always Jenny. ❤️
Thank you for the kind words, Karen! I love that you know what’s right for you at this time and are following that.
Hi Jenny,
My one and only focus is the writing of my website. My problem is I am just a very slow writer. So, I feel I have to work longer hours to get it done by the deadline I have set. It feels torturously s-l-o-w. It takes so much of my time that I don’t feel effective at all! Any advice on how to write faster?
Thanks for all your great and highly useful articles!
Vivian
Thank you for your comment, Vivian. One thing to consider: Every ounce of energy you give to the thought, I’m a very slow writer, is an ounce of energy and a moment in time that you’re not putting into writing. What if you were to drop the thoughts and just write? What magic and ease might unfold? 😉