It's HARD! Most home-based working moms and other entrepreneurs are saying the same thing now, how do I do it all? How can I run a business and balance a family at the same time? The pressure of clients, busy schedules, snow days, etc., can be daunting. I know, I've been working at home since 1985 and although it gets easier, it is still a challenge.



Here are tips for finding balance. They have helped me considerably through the years and I hope you enjoy them as well.

1. Keep in mind that it's a learning process. No one is perfect. One of the greatest gifts I did learn was to no longer beat myself up so much. So what if I didn't do it all today. So what if my house didn't pass a white glove test today (or ever). I really enjoy my business. I really enjoy my family. I feel as long as I do the best I can do, I'm a winner today.

2. To be able to get it all done and enjoy your family, create boundaries, both work-related and personal. You don't want to have to do it all and once you start saying no, you'll be amazed how truly awesome it feels. When you keep in control, things run better. Plus, I believe both your family and clients appreciate knowing what is expected of them.

3. Have a schedule to follow and stick to it as much as possible. Avoid unnecessary interruptions, including constant e-mail checking. Set a timer for checking emails, message boards, routine tasks. Think of time as money. Avoid time robbers such as friends that IM all day just to chat. This isn't to say you can't have fun and friends, you want that, just keep control and don't let it interrupt your day.

4. Get out of the office and do your work whenever possible. I do a lot of writing and proofing as a publicist and virtual assistant. Instead of sitting in the office, I take it the local coffee shop, bookstore, library, outside patio, beach, etc. It feels great to have a change of pace. A good cup of java and I'm good to go. Plus, find out if you can take your kids places and work. I will often go places that my kids can play, while I work.

5. Multitask whenever possible. When I prepare dinner, I will often do a crock-pot meal with the meat designated and also prepare a meal in the oven as well so I'll get two meals out of it. You feel like you have a day off on Day 2. Also, I'll prepare my kid's lunches and my own lunch while I prepare dinner. That way I can prepare a healthy lunch and snack the night before for both of us. When I'm not in a rush in the morning, I have more time to devote to putting healthy things together. You'd be amazed how good it feels to stop and eat a pre-made salad or sandwich while working instead of grabbing for something else.

6. Take small vacations to get away. Plan a Friday, Saturday, Sunday vacation. This helps because we don't feel overworked. Also, when you're busy, don't let exercise and going to the gym be the things you give up. You need those for energy.

7. Take weekends and evenings off. It's so easy to get caught up working 24/7. But when you take this time off, you feel so much more energized. And you get to connect more with your children.

Working at home can be a challenge, but it can also be the most rewarding journey ever. I believe that not only I benefit from the experience, but my children as well. They get to see a confident positive mom who loves going to work every day. And that's priceless