I began 2020 by starting my own Finance Director consultancy service. With 18 years of experience in the Finance sector, predominantly for corporate businesses, I felt I could transfer my skills to smaller businesses who need similar support, but don’t require it full time. In February 2020 Enrich Accounting was formed.
The benefit for me was the flexibility to spend more time with my young family, but little did I know what was around the corner. Just after Boris announced the first lockdown I suddenly needed to go for a drive. No, nothing to do with my eyesight. Our fourth child was on his way. I spent the next few months home schooling and nappy changing, with only a few hours to focus on my business in the evenings. Juggling everything was much harder than I expected.
It was a difficult time to grow a new business, so in June I took on a part-time contract supporting a local school with their finances. The parallel between teachers balancing the needs of online and on-site learners with my work to balance my contract with the demands of my business and home learning kids has been striking. I created the free Power Hour offer for Chamber members in recognition that business owners have limited time to look at their finances but just one hour can be enough to come up with practical solutions to their most pressing concern.
Towards the Summer I realised that I needed guidance on marketing and building my business, so I approached Dorset Business Mentors. They found me a wonderful mentor, who is always available and helpful, pushing me in the right direction, but also ensuring that I recognise the small steps of progress made along the way. It is too easy to beat yourself up for what you haven’t done and forget your achievements, however small.
The most important lesson I’ve learnt over the last year is to get the right work/life balance. During lockdowns we’ve spent family time going for walks together and feeding the ducks, focusing on work during the evenings, when there are fewer distractions. I also make sure of some time to myself, when I go running. The running keeps me fit, gives me some headspace and provides the energy levels to cope with some full-on days. Creating a routine has also been helpful, especially when home schooling, managing expectations for each day.
2020 was a year with my focus on setting up my business and supporting my family. I’m now getting clients and can be more outward looking, so I’ve decided to do more to support the local community. It is good to have goals to aim for in business and life so I’ve lined up some challenges this year to raise money for local charities, including a 100km run for Dorset Mind in May. My Just Giving page shows you what I’ve let myself in for. Any encouragement or donations will be gratefully received!
https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/paul-lord2
https://dorsetchamber.co.uk/member-offers/use-a-free-power-hour-to-solve-your-finance-headache-with-enrich-accounting/