Do you want to work less and earn more?
This 2-part podcast is based on my eBook, 7 Secrets to Working Less and Earning More. To get your free copy, visit https://olindaservices.news/7secretsgift.
“I can’t do it all.”
My despair was real. I was utterly overwhelmed. I knew I had to do something!
Running your own business or non-profit is downright HARD work. If you are a non-profit with a volunteer board, it can really be frustrating. You know what needs to be done, but there is only so much of you to go around. How do you get it all done?
Often people recommend hiring employees. I say,
Don’t let your business stop growing just because you are not ready for employees. The secret is to work smarter, not harder. – Lisa Olinda
Managing staff can bring its own overwhelm. You will reach that point, but there are several back of the house things to consider first.
Today, let’s focus on some tools you can use to drag you out of the overwhelm loop.
Here are three thoughts to provoke you, two ideas to inspire you, and one item to act on!
Three Thoughts to Provoke
Number One. Social Media Tools
First off, a timer!
You do not need to scroll mindlessly through Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, Pinterest, Tik Tok, and more. I recommend that you set a timer. How long do you have to invest in the social media scroll?
An app called Buffer is an excellent tool for scheduling posts. There is a free version you can trial or even use if you have three or fewer social channels and only a few things to post. This tool allows you to post when you want rather than trying to do it while sitting in the parking lot picking up your child.
Number Two. Spend Some Money
I work very hard to keep a low budget for my business. It can be hard to let go of some of those hard-earned dollars!
Do a little calculating, however. How much do you charge per hour? Now, how many hours does a specific task take? Which is more cost-effective for your business?
I was manually doing invoices, following up, tracking payments, and processing fees. I figured it took me around 4 hours per month. The cost for a month of QuickBooks Online is $40. You do the math!
Number Three. Use Tech
Using less tech can be tricky. Last week I posted Technology: Do you own tech, or does tech own you? Technology can be a great time-saver, but it can also be a time suck.
I love to set up tech, but I waste a tremendous amount of time playing with it and tweaking settings.
Some tech recommendations to save you time:
- LastPass – stop using the same password for everything. That is the easiest way to get hacked. Yes, I know you can remember PA$$W0RD, but so can everyone else. Start with their free version.
- Security Key – 2 Factor Authentication is a great way to keep your information safe. Invest in a security key that you can plug into your USB port or even scan with your phone. You can automatically authenticate your LastPass, Dropbox, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, and other programs.
Keep your tech simple. It is tempting to download every app and test it out. Keep it lite. You probably can easily use the default apps.
Two Things to Inspire
Number One. Work-Life Rhythm
I firmly believe you need a work-life rhythm, not necessarily balance. Your rhythm will change with circumstances.
Enjoy your dance.
Maybe you are doing a two-step with things right now due to COVID. I feel like I am doing the waltz by traveling between home and South Carolina. It is for a season.
I always try to remember the Persian adage, “this too will pass!”; the good and the bad. Enjoy your work, enjoy your personal.
Number Two. Work Smarter
I raised five children. Many of the tactics I employed with them, I use in my business.
Byron Dorgan says, “Working hard and working smart sometimes can be two different things.”
I always encourage you to work hard, but sometimes we need to focus on working smarter.
Your Action Item
Write down the top five things that are overwhelming you right now. Can you find a tool that will help you streamline the process?
If you can’t think of anything, please email me or schedule a quick call with me to brainstorms solutions.
Additional Resources:
Unplug. How? – Last week’s post
Content Marketing Tools – https://olindaservices.com/content-marketing-tools/