Use Play-Time as a Reward

“You can't build a reputation on what you are going to do.” ~ Henry Ford ~

Some days it's just hard to get going.  During the lazy days of summer you just want to be outside relaxing by a pool, lake or ocean.  Stop day dreaming!  Taking time for yourself is important so make sure you do it -  just don't overindulge!  Find a good rhythm for work and play.  Use play as your reward for getting things done that will build your dreams.  Lower your stress by just getting to it.  Great leaders will use play to balance out work but never in place of work.  Think about how great you will feel and how much more relaxed you will be if you just get a few things done before you spend time with family or friends. 

1. Close your eyes
2. Breathe
3. Empty your mind
4. As thoughts come in, acknowledge and whisk them away
5. Focus on your breathing
6. Think about the affirmation:

I will use play as a reward for smart work.

Work-Life Rhythm

Perpetual devotion to what a man calls his business, is only to be sustained by perpetual neglect of many other things. ~ Robert Louis Stevenson, Virginibus puerisque, 1881 ~

Being singularly minded will help you gather success…but only, in that one place.  Well-rounded success means that you tend to all areas of your life.  Success in business can be a lonely road if you do not fill it with other interests besides your business.  It can make you off kilter.  Keep in mind, though, finding balance may never happen.  It's like multi-tasking in that it assumes you can do many things at the same time but, it's impossible to hold more than one thought in your mind at a time. 

In the pursuit of balance, it is also, not always possible to be at work, at play, with family or taking care of yourself all at the same time.  It's impossible to give everything equal time.  Instead of beating yourself up trying to find balance, which can be stressful and unhealthy.   Look to find a rhythm, instead.  Some time is better than no time.  As a leader you should set  the example of success and health.  Which can be accomplished by devoting regular time away from your business and toward other meaningful pursuits.

1. Close your eyes
2. Breathe
3. Empty your mind
4. As thoughts come in, acknowledge and whisk them away
5. Focus on your breathing
6. Think about the affirmation:

"I will  pursue and devote time to non-business activities."