I felt guilty about not spending enough time with family and friends. But when I did, my heart and mind weren’t there.

By: A Staff Writer

Updated on: Oct 25, 2024

The Guilty Go-Getter: FamilyFirstFail, Nairobi, Kenya

I felt guilty about not spending enough time with family and friends. But when I did, my heart and mind weren’t there.

Jambo! I’m FamilyFirstFail from Nairobi, Kenya. As a passionate entrepreneur, my startup consumed my life. While I longed for quality time with loved ones, when I did manage to carve out a few hours, I found myself constantly checking emails and mentally revisiting work problems.

How I Found Balance (and Presence):

• Scheduled dedicated family time: I blocked out specific days and times in my calendar for family and social activities, treating them as non-negotiable appointments.
• Set boundaries with work: During family time, I turned off work notifications, put my phone away, and fully engaged in the present moment.
• Communicated my needs: I explained my situation to my loved ones, letting them know that I valued their time and wanted to be fully present when we were together.
• Practiced mindfulness: I incorporated mindfulness techniques into my daily routine to improve my focus and reduce anxiety, allowing me to be more present in both work and personal life.
• Accepted imperfection: I realized that I couldn’t be perfect at everything all the time and that it’s okay to have days where work takes priority over personal life, as long as it’s not the norm.

Entrepreneurship can be all-consuming, but it’s important to prioritize relationships and personal well-being. By setting boundaries, communicating your needs, and practicing mindfulness, you can find a balance that allows you to be successful in both your business and your personal life. Remember, quality time is about being present, not just physically there.