Balancing Business and Family Life: A Personal Journey

Running a business and raising kids is like juggling chainsaws while riding a unicycle—you have to keep your balance, or everything can come crashing down. As the owner of SCC Builds and a father to two young children,  I know firsthand how challenging it can be to manage bedtime routines, summer activities, and a full-time business. Here are some insights and tips that have helped me navigate this balancing act.

Finding the Balance

Balancing work and family life requires a mix of organization, flexibility, and a sense of humour. Here’s how I manage:

1. Routine is Key: Establishing a routine is essential for both work and family time. For us, bedtime is sacred. It’s a time to unwind, read stories, and ensure the kids are ready for a good night's sleep. This routine helps set clear boundaries between work and family time.
2. Summer Activities: With summer in full swing, keeping the kids engaged while managing work can be a challenge. Planning fun, outdoor activities like trips to the park, beach days, or even simple backyard games can keep them entertained. It’s all about finding activities that allow you to spend quality time with your kids without neglecting work responsibilities.
3. Involving the Family: Whenever possible, I involve my family in my work. Whether it’s visiting a job site or helping with simple tasks, it gives them a sense of what I do and allows us to spend more time together. Plus, it’s a great way to instill a strong work ethic in the kids.
4. Delegation: You can’t do everything alone. Delegating tasks, whether at work or home, is crucial. Erin, my wife, plays a huge role in managing our business's books and accounting. Her support is invaluable and helps lighten the load.

Tips for Success

1. Time Management: Utilize tools like calendars and to-do lists to keep track of your tasks. Prioritize your work to focus on the most important tasks during your most productive hours.
2. Set Boundaries: It's important to set boundaries between work and personal life. When you’re with your family, try to be fully present. This might mean turning off your phone or setting specific times to check emails.
3. Self-Care: Don’t forget to take care of yourself. Whether it’s a quick workout, a hobby, or simply some quiet time, taking care of your own well-being is essential to being there for your family and running a successful business.
4. Embrace the Chaos: Things won’t always go as planned, and that’s okay. Learn to embrace the chaos and roll with the punches. Flexibility and a positive attitude can go a long way in managing stress.

Balancing a full-time business and family life is no small feat, but with the right strategies, it’s possible to manage both effectively. As a business owner and a parent, I’ve learned that the key is to stay organized, set clear boundaries, and always make time for the ones who matter most.

Enjoy the summer, and remember, finding balance is the key to a happy, fulfilling life.