We hear so much advice about giving ourselves and our staff a better work life balance, but seldom do we get practical advice on how to actually balance career, home life, partners, children and everything else that makes us human. US parent-preneurs and CEOs Ed and Ellen Schack give their take on how to successfully balance business endeavours, marital relations and family life.
Today many in HR strive to ‘have it all’ with respect to personal and professional life but, all too often, this shotgun effort leads to disappointing results on many—if not all—fronts. The Schacks point out, “The complexity lies in creating abundance in your life while still being able to relax and enjoy life to its fullest.” Individual business owners and parents of three, the Schack’s have blended their families, work lives, and personalities in a way that complement each other, and serve as a model for other couples and families striving to do the same. The serial entrepreneurs now share some of their key principals that have helped them successfully balance family life with growing businesses.
Embracing difference—the spice of life. One of the most important components of life is to recognise how very unique each one of us is and how we can actually harness these individual qualities to add greater strength or capabilities to a relationship. Whether it’s a spouse or a child, it is important to pay appreciate differing characteristics and personality. This may mean modifying a discipline or communication approach that lead to the necessary changes that generate a positive family impact and outcome.
Are we having fun yet? Life is far too short to be too serious about it. Life is supposed to be fun and work is too. Ed and Ellen’s philosophy is to make everything in life a worthwhile experience, lived moment to moment. Be present in those moments and make them as memorable as possible. Also keep a peaceful state of mind by purposely relaxing—rather than waiting for random chances to present themselves.
Open communication. Communication is vital to any healthy relationship whether business or personal. The Schack’s have embraced their business coach’s philosophy: WIFLE—What I Feel Like Expressing. This mantra, part of every weekly meeting where employees get to talk about whatever they want about CEOs, employees, themselves, the company and so on, can also be applied in a more informal way at home with family and children. Make sure there is resolution on each topic presented so that no one is confused and be sure to reach a decision that provides one answer.
All hands on deck—operating with respect, balance and recognition. When looking for inspiration in one’s life, it is important to have go-to people to lean on in both career and non-career aspects. This may mean using a business consultant who can take the business to the next level or a personal confidant who can help you make personal changes, improve communication, resolve issues and become a better person.Tied to the principle of recognising the value in others and accepting other’s opinions is the overriding principle of being respectful in every aspect of life. Have respect, let it go. Never stay angry. Don’t get crazy over little things.
Shelter against the storm—finding your neutral zone. It is not easy to maintain happy and healthy relationships on a personal or professional level. There will be discord and disagreement, so finding a neutral zone is important where each side can go to get away from stress. Think about your home or other location as a sanctuary that is replete with peace and positivity. Establish a place of escape from life’s difficulties, so that you can clear your head, regroup and productively deal with the situation at hand.
Shift change—keeping home and businesses separate. It is important to create boundaries that keep work and home life separate, so that couples can carve out as much quality family time as possible. This helps to reduce anxiety and stress in the family unit. Those with home-based businesses can still establish work hours and then, after that time, close up shop and focus on the family—for the health and happiness of all involved.
More than skin deep—social responsibility on the inside and out. Establishing a business and a family life based on a philosophy of social responsibility can generate a great deal of satisfaction. Whether it is the idea to ‘pay it forward’ by helping those who are less fortunate or creating a bucket list based on what you can do for others—rather than yourself—not only makes a difference in others’ lives, but it also enriches your own life and makes it feel more fulfilling. Doing these activities as a couple, family or work unit is also a unique bonding experience.
Paul Arkwright
Publisher
