Finding a Balance: How I Juggle Business, Family, and Self-Care
Life as a business owner and a mom of three isn’t about achieving a perfect balance—it's more like juggling a collection of glass balls, where each day demands its own set of priorities. Managing Falco Creative Media while raising my three energetic boys requires a constant reevaluation of what needs my attention most. Here’s a candid look at how I navigate these daily decisions and why family always comes first, even if it means letting some things go.
A Year of Growth and Teamwork
This year has been one of the most exciting for Falco Creative Media! What started as a solo adventure is now a thriving and growing team effort. A year ago, I brought Molly on board to help with administrative tasks and production assistance. Her support has allowed me to dive deeper into the creative aspects of our work. This year alone, we’ve accomplished nearly 75 shoots, won an Emmy with Sheletta Brundidge, and received two more Emmy nominations. Each of these achievements reflects the collective effort and dedication of our team.
To further enhance our client services, Jenna joined us to manage marketing. Her role involves showcasing behind-the-scenes content and providing insights into what clients can expect when working with us. It’s not just about attracting new clients but also about offering value and inspiration to those already engaged with us.
Family First: The Priority Juggling Act
The reality is that no matter how well you plan, you can’t do it all, and that is okay! My family is my top priority, but sometimes it means making tough decisions about what needs my attention each day. I strive to be present at every school program and after-school activity for my boys, but this sometimes requires adjusting my work schedule. Being honest with clients about my family commitments helps me navigate these choices and find the best way to balance my responsibilities.
My husband Matt and I work together as a team and have a strong partnership that allows for the understanding of each other's business demands and responsibilities. This partnership is invaluable, especially when both of us need to shift focus between work and family. It’s about making the most of each day and recognizing that sometimes, one ball has to be put down temporarily to keep the others in the air. Our teamwork makes a huge difference!
Staying Organized Amidst the Chaos
To manage this juggling act, I rely on a few strategies. I clear my inbox either at night or first thing in the morning, so when I’m in the office, I can focus on editing and creative work. Coffee is my lifeline (yes, a lot of it), and I use a physical planner and whiteboard to track tasks and deadlines.
Preparation is also key. Each night, we get the kids’ lunches ready, organize their backpacks, and set out their shoes. This routine helps our mornings go more smoothly. Hiring out house cleaning also keeps our home organized, which reduces some of the daily stress.
Embracing the Imperfections
Even with meticulous planning, balancing work, family, and personal time is a continuous challenge. There are days when one aspect has to take precedence over the others, and that’s okay. It's about embracing the imperfections and recognizing that you can’t do it all perfectly. The goal isn’t to achieve a flawless balance but to manage the glass balls with grace and flexibility.
Date nights with Matt and monthly catch-ups with friends are crucial for my well-being, and I’m continually working on integrating regular workouts into my schedule. Self-care is important, but it’s an ongoing process of adjusting and adapting to what each day brings.
In conclusion, finding balance is less about achieving perfection and more about making thoughtful choices and being adaptable. By sharing my journey, I hope to offer a realistic view of the balancing act that many of us face and remind everyone that it’s okay to prioritize what matters most each day.