How do I set boundaries between work and personal life, especially as my business grows?

Setting boundaries between work and personal life becomes crucial as your business grows, especially if you're transitioning from a corporate environment to freelancing or entrepreneurship. Here's an approach based on my journey and the frameworks that helped along the way.

1. Define Your Non-Negotiables: Start by identifying what's most important to you outside of work—whether it's time with family, personal health, or hobbies. These non-negotiables form the foundation of your boundaries. When I left corporate life, I made a pact with myself to have dinner with my family every evening. It sounds simple, but setting that rule early on helped maintain a crucial balance.

2. Create Visual Triggers: Designate a workspace separate from your personal life, even if it's a small corner. This physical boundary acts as a visual reminder to differentiate work time from personal time. I remember setting up a specific "work zone" in my living area. When I’m in that zone, I’m in work mode; stepping out of it means I leave work behind for a while.

3. Leverage Technology Mindfully: Use tools and technologies to your advantage. For instance, schedule emails to send during business hours or use apps that remind you to take breaks and log off at a specific time. Also, communicate your availability to clients upfront—let them know your working hours and stick to them.

4. Establish Routines and Rituals: Develop morning and evening rituals to signify the start and end of your workday. For me, starting the day with a short walk and ending it by reviewing my Capture, Develop, Expose tasks provided structure and mental separation between work and personal time.

5. Practice Saying No: As your business grows, more opportunities will come your way. It's vital to develop the skill of selectively saying no. This doesn’t only preserve your time but ensures you’re focusing on what aligns with your values and goals.

6. Reassess Regularly: Boundaries aren’t static. As your business evolves, so should your boundaries. Regularly check in with yourself—are you feeling stretched too thin or missing out on personal priorities? Adjust as necessary.

Remember, redefining success on your terms means understanding that growth doesn’t have to come at the expense of your personal well-being. Embrace the flexibility that comes with being a freelancer or entrepreneur but temper it with discipline to protect your personal life. It’s not always easy, but building these habits early can pay dividends as your business scales.