I’ve started a second business this summer and it’s been one helluva road thus far. It’s been both- exciting and stressful at the same time, but I finally feel like I’ve got a grip and wanted to share some of the things that helped me the most.

#1 Separate

If you’re currently trying to mangle multiple businesses, the best thing you can do is to have a clear separation between them all. I’ve tried to do it all and would end up having to complete various tasks on each day, but soon I’ve started to feel like I can never do enough. For the last few weeks tho I’ve been trying a different technique where I spend two days a week working on one project before I move on to do my best to conquer the next one for the other two days. I then dedicate my Fridays to learning something new or planning/working on the business that seems to need more attention that week. This works like a charm. I feel like I work less, but at the same time, I’m able to do way more.

#2 Celebrate

No matter how big or small each project you’re working on is- it’s important to recognize & celebrate the achievements of each. With a new business, it was hard for me to understand how the beginnings usually aren’t financially profitable. I was running my own business for years and I was used to receiving a steady paycheck by now. It took me some time to understand that I can’t compare the two and instead, I should be glad to observe them separately and be equally satisfied with each one’s achievements.

#3 Create business plans

Moving forward with different projects can be hard if you don’t have a clear plan. Get a piece of paper and start writing. Create yourself a schedule- set clear deadlines for the big and small tasks you need to complete every day to make each project grow, list your current stats & the income you make. Count your expenses & figure out how much you should make in order to live comfortably. Be realistic here. I’m sure if you do well, you will grow your income in no time, but for now- stick to essentials only. Once you know the money you need to make, you can start focussing on the money you wish to make. Each business can be separate bigger or smaller goals, but the plans you make will help you keep up with what needs to be done and feel satisfied with the progress.

Read: How To Plan Your Blog + Business Tasks Effectively

#4 Hire

So you might be used to doing everything on your own, but if you end up running separate businesses, it would be a great idea to consider inviting others to join your team. Sharing your day to day tasks with people you can trust is the game changer. Not only it will help you keep yourself sane, but you will also find spare time to plan ahead and bring ideas that will help your businesses grow further.

#5 Don’t forget to have a life

Ok, so this is the most important bit. Hustle is NOT sexy. As much as I get obsessed with the projects I’m working on, I now that the only way to stay sane is to actually remind myself that I need to have a life separated from my work. This might not sound romantic, but setting up a reminder to arrange dinner plans with your partner or book that day at the spa is a must. Taking time off to relax properly can help you come back to the tasks you must complete with twice as much energy and your overall performance will actually increase. Trust me on this one!

Are you currently running multiple businesses? What is the number one tip you can give to the rest of us?