Balancing Work and Family – Tips for Making Your Home Based Business a Family Affair

Mon, Jun 14, 2010

Many articles that give tips for balancing work and family are written based on the idea that you want to keep them separated. But since these two major areas are a big part of your life, why not try to integrate the two rather than segregate them? You may find that you are more motivated and that your business becomes more successful if you turn it into a family endeavor.

When the whole family is invested you can tap into the unique talents of each member and there less chance of resentment developing over the amount of time you are spending building the business. Balancing work and family is not easy but if you work at it, you may be able to create the supportive dynamic you need to build a successful business.

Have a Family Meeting

Before starting the business have a family meeting to discuss the idea. Talk about your hopes, how having a home based business will benefit everyone and how balancing work and family is your main goal which is why you are discussing it together. Answer any questions or concerns they may have about the venture.

While you want to talk about the business in a positive light, don’t sugarcoat the truth. Be honest and let them know that in the beginning it will take a lot of work and a team effort to get the business off the ground. Don’t be afraid to solicit suggestions from them about how to make balancing work and family easier.

Let Them Help

There have been many psychological studies done which have shown that the more a person becomes invested in something the more they care about it. For example, a tactic that many marketers use is to help people visualize using the product they are selling. One a person sees themselves using a product they become emotionally invested and are more likely to make a purchase.

Getting the family involved in the business will increase their emotional investment in it. They will care about its success and having your family in your corner rooting you on is the best feeling in the world. So try to find something they can do to help. For example, one way I balance work and family is I get my kids to help me make videos for my online shopping business. Not only do I get to spend time with them but the children love being my little “business partners”.

Share the Rewards

Sharing the rewards of business success with the family is a great way to reinforce the work and family dynamic you have established. Whether it is a financial reward (extra allowance or purchasing something that has been wanted for awhile) or emotional reward (spending more time doing fun stuff because the bills are getting paid) let the family share in the fruits of your combined labors. If they see the rewards, they will be more amendable to supporting the business.

Balancing work and family is a challenge. But if you approach it the right way you can build the successful business you want and have a supportive family by your side every step of the way. One thing that can help is to find an opportunity that works around your lifestyle rather than the other way around. Visit RockYourBusinessOnline.com to learn about a business opportunity that lets you work when it’s convenient for you.

(photo credit: smallestbones)