Written by Chris DeLuca, Owner of All Pro Window Tinting in Atlanta, Ga., and Tennessee Film Solutions in Chattanooga, Tenn.; Edited by Chris Collier, Director of Communications at Autobahn, Huper Optik, and Edge
When is enough actually enough?
Separation anxiety is real for industries across the board. This is an issue that all business owners face.
We all battle with the balancing act of life—work, life, family, and our own wants and needs. When do we break away and pursue what makes us really smile? And how do we do it?
No One is the Same
People handle different situations differently.
We all have “things” going on in our lives. Good and bad. For those of us who own and run a business, the work issues can compound the personal ones.
They can also help alleviate some of those issues. It’s hard to stop, and take a break. If I/we are not working, we aren’t making money. But I would safely say that money doesn’t fix or solve everything.
Making time for others and ourselves outside of work is huge! Taking a step back to breathe and re-group is critical. Self-care keeps us going.
Vacation. Family time. Golf. Hanging with friends and sharing a few beers after work. Watching your kids in their hobbies and sports. Date nights with your partner.
All of these things mean so much more than tinting one more car.
Step Away
The drive and the will to succeed is what keeps the wheels greased so to speak. We all want to reach, meet, and exceed goals. But we can’t take money and success with us, so why does it all matter? I’ll tell you why! No one wants to be looked at as a slacker. We all want to be remembered or described by our ethics.
At the same time, adding the extra install, driving the extra miles, and trying to make the customer happy is the reason we get stressed. Look at some of the largest companies in the world that existed and were seen everywhere we looked. They disappeared overnight.
We are only given so much time on this planet. I don’t want to be remembered for how much time I spent at the office or on a job. I want others to remember the fun, the laughs, and the memories that we shared.
Disconnect and Reconnect
As redundant as this all sounds … breathe. Learn how to separate business and pleasure and start living your best life. Enjoy what you do–but enjoy not doing that thing even more.
Keep setting your goals but make sure fun is one of those goals.