How to Create an Interiors Business in Alignment with your Season in Life
If you're anything like me, you want your work to be something you’re passionate about, something you truly enjoy. But, when that work starts to feel overwhelming, it can quickly lose its appeal. That’s why it's crucial to regularly check in with yourself, especially when your business is growing or you're just getting started.
Recognizing Your Season of Life
I began my journey in 2009 when my youngest was just three years old, and it taught me valuable lessons about creating a business that works with your life, not against it. At first, I co-owned a gift and homewares store, working around my kids’ schedules. Later, as my children grew and their needs changed, I shifted to property styling.
Whether you’re balancing young children, a full-time job, or caring for elderly family members, it’s important to ask: Is my business working for me, or is it creating unnecessary stress?
My Advice for Aligning Your Business with Your Life
Evaluate Your Current Situation Start by taking an honest look at your current life circumstances. Are you a parent with limited free time? Do you have reliable help, or are you managing it all on your own? Maybe you’re trying to transition out of a full-time job to pursue your passion. Assess how much time you can truly dedicate to your business at this stage.
Get Clear on Your “Why” Reflect on what you want to get out of your business. Is it financial security? Is it about achieving success, or is it more about doing something you love, like interior design? Your motivation will help guide how you structure your business, so it works for your life rather than adding more pressure.
Plan Your Schedule Intentionally Once you have a clear understanding of your current life stage and your business goals, map out what your ideal weekly schedule looks like. Don’t forget to factor in family commitments, personal time, and other responsibilities. When you create a balance between your work and personal life, everything tends to flow more smoothly.
Review Your Services Now, take a look at the services you offer. Do they align with your time availability and income goals? For instance, if you don’t have the bandwidth for full-scale design projects, consider offering more time-flexible services like virtual consultations or styling. Your offers should reflect both your financial goals and lifestyle.
Set Realistic Income Goals Once you’ve mapped out your services, set an income target for the month. Then, calculate how many clients or projects you’d need to hit that goal. Make sure it's feasible. If it takes too many clients to reach your target, it might be time to adjust your pricing or rethink your services to create a more sustainable path.
Check-In Regularly to Stay Aligned
It’s essential to revisit this process at least once a year. As life evolves, so do your needs and circumstances. Doing regular check-ins ensures that your business continues to support your lifestyle and keeps you from burning out.
At the heart of it all, remember that building a business you’re passionate about should enhance your life, not take away from it. When you align your business with your personal life, you’ll find it’s possible to pursue your dreams and maintain balance.
Katrina xx
