How to Create More Time for the Work You Love
One of the biggest reasons many of us start a small business is because we love what we do.
But somewhere along the way...
It’s easy to get buried under emails, invoicing, marketing, admin tasks, and endless to-dos.
If you feel like you’re spending less time doing what you love — and more time just managing your business — you’re not alone.
The good news?
You can take back your time — and protect it — so you can get back to the parts of your business that light you up.
Here’s how:
1. Get Ruthlessly Clear on Your Priorities
Not all tasks are created equal.
Some tasks move your business forward; others just keep you busy.
Ask yourself:
What activities actually generate revenue or build relationships?
What tasks only feel urgent, but aren’t truly important?
Focus on the few things that make the biggest impact.
Everything else can be streamlined, delegated, or dropped.
2. Create (and Stick to) a Weekly Time Budget
Just like you budget your money, you should budget your time.
Try this:
Block out time for your highest-value work first (client projects, sales, marketing)
Set specific times for lower-priority tasks (like checking email or admin work)
Leave white space in your calendar for creativity, thinking, and unexpected needs
Boundaries create freedom.
Protect your best hours for your best work.
3. Automate Where You Can
If you’re still manually sending invoices, chasing appointment confirmations, or posting on five different social media platforms...
It’s time to automate!
Simple tools like:
Accounting software (like QuickBooks Online)
Scheduling apps (like Calendly)
Email marketing platforms (like Mailchimp or Flodesk)
...can free up HOURS each week.
Automation isn’t cold — it’s smart.
It lets you focus on the work only you can do.
4. Delegate and Outsource
You don’t have to do it all yourself. (And honestly, you shouldn’t.)
Think about:
Hiring a virtual assistant for admin tasks
Partnering with a bookkeeper to handle your finances
Working with a marketing pro for content and strategy
Even if you start small — handing off just one thing — the mental and emotional breathing room you gain is priceless.
5. Learn to Say No (Without Guilt)
Every "yes" you give is a "no" to something else.
If you want to protect time for the work you love, you’ll have to say no to:
Projects that don’t align
Clients who drain your energy
Opportunities that sound exciting but distract from your goals
Saying no isn’t selfish — it’s strategic.
It makes space for your best, most joyful work to thrive.
Final Thoughts: Time Is Your Most Precious Asset
You started your business because you wanted freedom, impact, and joy — not because you wanted to drown in admin and busywork.
By getting clear, setting boundaries, and getting the right support, you can create more time for the parts of your business that truly light you up.