The reality is, both raising a family and developing a business are full-time jobs. So, how can you give 100 percent to each and still maintain your sanity?

First of all, set aside a special time each day or week that is designated as “family time.” During this time, don't accept phone calls, don't set appointments, and don't even think about your business. You might not even want to stay near your office. Consider going out to dinner and sharing the three best experiences had by each family member during that week.

If you feel you can incorporate your family into parts of your business, you might help family members to better understand your needs and constraints. It's one thing for your spouse or children to see you completely stressed out; it's quite another for them to be in your office when that high-volume order comes in on short notice. It would be a positive experience for your children to observe your commitment to your work.

Dealing with Challenges

You'll need to develop the skill to work around any obstacle or challenge, and the best way to accomplish a good balance between work and home life is to learn to follow a time-management program. Scheduling your time is the best way to make sure that everything gets done. The rest is just recognizing that it is possible to have two loves: your business and your family.

What should you do in the event that a client or customer wants to meet during one of your special family times? You can handle it one of two ways:You could rearrange your family time; or, better yet, you could simply say, “I already have a meeting at that time. Is there another time that works for you?” Others will respect your attention to commitments, and you never have to offer any further explanation as to whom you're meeting with. However you decide to work your children into your business life, one thing is for sure: There will never be a time without challenges or interruptions.