I’ve learned to balance a full-time job with running three blogs. It’s a tricky task, but it’s what I love and makes me happy. My first blog in the medical field started because my wife got diagnosed with endometriosis and fibromyalgia. Then, my second blog in home décor took off quickly And this blog was created because I love writing about blogging.
In today’s world, many people dislike their day jobs. They worry about losing their jobs and not having enough money. Blogging is a way for me to follow my dreams and make extra money1.
The Struggle of Balancing Work and Passion Projects
Having a full-time job and working on passion projects, like running three blogs, is tough. I’ve been there and know how hard it is to handle many tasks while keeping a good work-life balance2.
Juggling Multiple Responsibilities: A Common Challenge
I work about 47 hours a week at my main job, and that might grow near the holidays2. Plus, I spend around 2.5 hours each night on my side hustle, which includes my blogs2. It’s hard to keep up with my main job and still make time for my passion projects.
The Importance of Finding a Harmonious Balance
But, I’ve found that balancing work and passion projects is key for my well-being and blog success. Studies suggest3 it might take years to see income from blogging, and making good content takes a lot of time and effort3. I aim to manage my tasks well and avoid burnout.
To stay organized, I plan my Instagram posts a week ahead with the Planoly app, aiming for a month’s content by the new year2. I also try to schedule blog posts a day early, aiming for a month’s content ahead2. These methods keep me on track with my content, even with many tasks.
My goal is to earn enough to switch to a less demanding job2. Studies indicate3 balancing a job with blogging is tough, and too much work can cause burnout. It’s vital to take breaks3.
To keep myself well, I use tools like a Stress Away roller for focus, a diffuser for calming scents, and a Thieves roller for immune support2. Essential oils like Peppermint and Citrus Fresh help me stay focused and energized2.
Many professionals face the challenge of balancing a job and side projects. But, it’s doable with the right strategies and mindset. Studies show4 side projects show initiative, tenacity, and motivation, which employers value4. By caring for myself, setting realistic goals, and improving daily, I believe I can excel in work and life234.
Running 3 Blogs Balance Full-Time Job
Running three blogs while working full-time might seem tough, but I’ve made it work with hard work and planning5. I use my skills and knowledge to grow each blog into a successful online business5. This shows how good time management and a strong drive can make dreams come true.
As an entrepreneur, I balance my job and blogging by managing my time well5. I work 25-40 hours a week at Island Jay, a company that sells beach clothes and accessories5. Blogging takes 5-15 hours a week, including writing, shopping online, and promoting on social media5. My ETSY shop needs 5-10 hours a week for tasks like adding products and fulfilling orders5.
To manage everything, I have a plan for my blogs5. I use Reward Style links to make money and focus on bringing people to my site5. I plan my content with the seasons in mind and get ideas from my followers on Instagram5. By focusing on two tasks at a time, I can handle my job, ETSY shop, and blog without getting overwhelmed5.
My job’s flexibility helps me balance everything, which has helped my ETSY shop and blog grow5. I make new products for my ETSY shop using affordable materials that fit my brand5.
Running three blogs while working full-time has been tough but rewarding6. Over ten years, I’ve worked full-time and blogged, showing my dedication6. By blogging once a week and using tools like Hootsuite, I stay motivated and manage my work well6.
To balance a full-time job and multiple blogs, you need good time management and a strong plan7. Prioritize tasks, work in batches, and find a system that fits you to achieve balance between work and your passions7.
Remember, balancing a job and blogging is hard, but with the right mindset and tools, you can make your dreams come true7.
Prioritizing and Time Management Strategies
Effective time management and prioritization have helped me balance my job and blogging. I plan my days and weeks carefully, setting aside time for blogging and avoiding distractions8.
Creating a Structured Schedule and Sticking to It
This disciplined approach lets me use my time well and meet my blogging goals8. Keeping a time log helps me see how I spend my time8. Studies show that being disorganized can harm our well-being and time management8.
It’s important to schedule time for important tasks and know when you work best8. Delegating tasks helps me focus on what I’m best at8. To avoid putting things off, I start with the toughest tasks and break them into smaller parts8.
Managing distractions is key, like using voice-to-text and setting email times8. Taking regular breaks improves productivity and mental health9. The 80/20 rule shows that most of our work comes from a small part of our efforts9.
The Pomodoro Technique helps me work in focused 25-minute intervals with breaks, making me more productive9. A time audit shows how much time we waste on unproductive activities9. Doing important tasks first makes a big difference in time management9.
Having a to-do list for the day boosts productivity9. Delegating tasks helps with time management9. Timeboxing, or setting time limits for tasks, increases productivity9.
It’s smart to focus on urgent but not important tasks less, delegate them, or drop them9. The Pomodoro Technique, with 25 minutes of work followed by a break, boosts productivity10.
Time blocking, like Elon Musk uses, structures time for tasks, improving time management10. Prioritizing important tasks over less important ones increases productivity10.
Delegating tasks to team members based on their skills and workload helps with time management10. Using productivity apps and software helps organize tasks10. Celebrating small wins boosts morale and motivation, helping with time management10.
Training programs can improve time management skills10. Time audits help us see our progress and find areas to get better at time management10.
Focusing on one task at a time increases productivity10. Reminders for deadlines and appointments help keep a structured schedule and better time management efforts10.
Batching Tasks for Improved Efficiency
As a busy professional, I manage a full-time job and run three blogs. Batching tasks has changed the game for me, boosting my productivity and efficiency11. I group similar tasks like email marketing and content creation together. This makes my workflow smoother and cuts down on time spent switching between tasks11.
Using themed work blocks or weeks has been super helpful11. It lets me focus on certain tasks or areas. This not only improves my time management but also lowers mental fatigue from switching tasks too often11.
For instance, one week might be all about content creation, like writing blog posts and making social media content12. The next week, I’ll focus on admin tasks, like invoicing and organizing12. This plan keeps me on top of my work and in control, even with a full-time job and side projects.
Batching is great for repetitive tasks, like social media posting12. By dedicating time to make and schedule posts all at once, I’m more efficient and consistent online. I don’t get overwhelmed by always needing new content12.
Handling a full-time job and multiple blogs is tough12. But, using batching has changed everything for me13. It saves time, reduces mental fatigue, and keeps me organized and focused on what’s important13.
If you’re juggling a lot, I suggest trying batching13. It might take some time to get it right, but the benefits in time-saving and efficiency are huge13.
The Power of Delegation and Outsourcing
As my blogs grew, I learned how valuable delegation and outsourcing are. At first, I did everything myself. But I saw tasks where I could use strategic partnerships and help from others14. This has given me more time and let me focus on what I love about my blogs.
Knowing When to Ask for Help
Learning when to ask for help has been key for me. Delegation and outsourcing have made me better at managing my time and being productive. They’ve also helped prevent burnout and kept my work and personal life balanced15.
By using others’ skills and resources, I focus on what I do best. This lets me grow my blogs and give my readers better content14. It’s a smart way to work.
Benefits of Delegation and Outsourcing | Key Considerations |
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Using delegation and outsourcing has helped me grow my blogs and keep a good work-life balance. It’s a smart strategy I suggest to any entrepreneur with many tasks141615.
Leveraging Tools and Automating Processes
In today’s digital world, there are many tools and technologies to help make blogging easier. I use different platforms and software to automate tasks like social media, email, and content optimization17. These tools let me save time and focus on the creative parts of my blogs17. Automating tasks has changed how I manage my job and hobbies.
I’ve started using Robotic Process Automation (RPA) software like UiPath for tasks like tracking stocks and processing orders17. This has made my online store run better and given me more time for important tasks18.
AI tools like Planful Predict help me make smarter financial choices and understand customer feelings and trends17. Tools like Otter.AI and Vowel have also made meetings better by providing transcripts and summaries17.
Using automation and these tools has made my work more efficient and helped me balance my job and hobbies17. It’s important to keep looking for new tech that can make things easier and give you more time for what’s important.
Tool | Use Case | Benefits |
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UiPath | Robotic Process Automation (RPA) for repetitive tasks like stock tracking and order processing | Improved efficiency, reduced manual labor, and freed up time for high-value activities |
Planful Predict | AI-powered financial decision-making and analysis | Improved financial planning and decision-making |
Viable | AI-driven customer sentiment and trend analysis | Optimized content and marketing strategies based on customer insights |
Otter.AI, Vowel | Real-time meeting transcription, summarization, and action item identification | Enhanced meeting productivity and collaboration |
By using automation and productivity tools, I’ve made my work easier, more efficient, and balanced my job and hobbies17. It’s key to always look for new tech that can simplify things and give you more time for what’s important171819.
Setting Boundaries and Saying “No”
As a professional juggling a full-time job and running three blogs, I’ve learned the importance of setting boundaries. This helps me manage my time and energy20. I took a pay cut to switch to a full-time editing role for stability and benefits20. Cutting down my work hours improved my work-life balance and gave me more time for my hobbies20.
Saying “no” is a key lesson I’ve learned21. Job satisfaction is key since we spend a third of our lives at work21. But, with 63.4% of workers feeling burned out in 2022, setting boundaries is vital21.
I’ve shared how I set boundaries with my manager20. I’ve also used strategies like removing work apps from my phone and having a dedicated workspace20. These steps have greatly reduced my anxiety compared to my academic days20.
The Art of Prioritizing Your Time and Energy
Managing a full-time job and blogs is tough21. Meetings have gone up by 69.7% since 2020, making our calendars full and productivity down21. We work an average of 47.6 hours a week, adding 276.3 hours by year’s end21. That’s why setting personal boundaries is key for a good work-life balance21.
Healthy boundaries lead to better job satisfaction and emotional stability21. Without them, we feel overworked, drained, and resentful at work21. TV producer Shonda Rhimes said, “I’m sorry, no, I’m not able to do that.”22 This mindset helps me focus on what’s important to me.
By setting clear boundaries and saying “no” to non-essential requests, I keep a healthy balance between work and life21. This approach lets me excel in my job and dedicate time to my blogs202122.
Finding Inspiration and Staying Motivated
Running three blogs while working full-time can be tough on the mind and heart23. That’s why finding motivation and inspiration is key to keep my passion alive. I look for ways to keep my energy up, like connecting with readers, learning new trends, and celebrating my achievements24. Keeping a positive outlook and balance in life and work is crucial for overcoming challenges.
Setting clear goals and celebrating my wins keeps me going24. I get inspired by my readers and the difference my work makes in their lives23. Looking back at my progress keeps me focused and motivated, even when it’s hard.
Using productivity tips and taking care of myself also helps a lot2423. By organizing my tasks, sharing some work, and doing things that recharge me, I stay sharp and motivated. This way, I can handle my job and blogs without getting overwhelmed.
At the end, what keeps me inspired and motivated is a strong sense of purpose and resilience. Facing challenges, celebrating small wins, and always looking to improve keeps my drive and enthusiasm alive232425.
Self-Care and Work-Life Balance
Running three blogs and a full-time job has taught me the value of self-care and work-life balance. It’s easy to get caught up in work and projects, but ignoring my well-being can lead to burnout and less productivity26.
To keep myself in check, I make sure to include self-care in my daily routine. This means doing things like exercising, meditating, and taking breaks from work26. These intentional breaks help me avoid burnout and keep my productivity and creativity up26.
Avoiding Burnout by Taking Breaks
Finding the right balance between work and life is a constant effort, but it’s key to doing well in both areas26. I’ve found that planning ahead and being proactive with deadlines helps keep my work-life balance in check26.
Some people might be more focused on meeting deadlines, but I’ve learned to be more proactive. This approach helps me avoid last-minute stress and missing deadlines due to poor planning26. By focusing on self-care, I can keep my motivation and energy up, even when things get tough26.
At the end of the day, balancing productivity, planning, and self-care is key to a healthy work-life balance26. It’s a process, but I’m committed to it for my long-term success and happiness in both my work and personal life26.
Self-Care Practices | Work-Life Balance Strategies | Benefits |
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Recent studies show that 73% of Americans became more aware of self-care in 2020, and 69% plan to do more self-care in the future27. This shift highlights the growing importance of self-care and work-life balance in staying well and preventing burnout27.
However, finding the right balance can be tough, especially for those focused on meeting deadlines26. With work and personal life blending more, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic, the need for good self-care and work-life balance strategies is more critical than ever28.
By putting my well-being first and making choices to live a healthy life, I’m better able to handle the demands of my job and side projects27. It’s a journey, but it’s vital for my long-term success and happiness in all areas of life26.
Productivity, Planning, Self-Care & Work-LifeBalance Requires PlanningThere Is No Work-Life Balance, There’s JustSelf-Care and Work-Life Balance262827
Celebrating Small Wins and Milestones
As I balance my full-time job and multiple blogs, I focus on celebrating small wins and milestones. Reaching new subscriber milestones, getting brand partnerships, or making content that connects with my audience is big for me29. I take time to acknowledge and appreciate these achievements. This keeps me motivated and shows me how far I’ve come towards my goals30.
Having a positive mindset and celebrating small wins is key to keeping up the pace and staying motivated30. Thomas Edison tried about 10,000 times before he invented the lightbulb. This shows how important perseverance is and how failures are steps towards success30. By celebrating small steps, I stay focused and energized, even when things get tough.
Keeping track of my progress helps me stay motivated and see how far I’ve come30. Writing down my small wins is a way to reward myself and stay on track30. Celebrating these victories gives me more energy and motivates me to do more30.
Celebrating small wins and milestones is a powerful way to feel accomplished, boost morale, and keep a positive outlook31. By recognizing my progress, I stay resilient and inspired, even when faced with challenges31.
Having a growth mindset and enjoying the small victories is key to balancing work and passion projects31. By celebrating these milestones, I keep a healthy pace and move closer to my long-term goals31.
How to Celebrate Success at WorkHow to Celebrate Small Winsto Achieve BigHow Do You Define SuccessfulMilestones and Celebrate Accordingly293031
Building a Supportive Network
Having a strong support system has been key in balancing my job and blogging. I’ve made connections with other bloggers, mentors, and people who get what I go through. They offer advice and support, making me feel less alone and more motivated32. This network has made my work and personal life better32.
The Importance of a Solid Support System
As someone juggling many tasks, a supportive network has changed the game for me. My blogger friends and peers get the challenge of working full-time and pursuing hobbies33. They listen, give honest feedback, and help solve problems33. This community keeps me motivated and inspired, helping me stay on track34.
Being part of this support system means I have people to talk to and share my wins and struggles with33. It also opens doors to new projects, collaborations, and job chances33. A strong support network helps me handle my job and blogs better32.
In the world of blogging and starting your own business, a solid support system is a must for your mental health34. It can be a group of bloggers, mentors, or people who think like you. These connections give you the support, accountability, and advice you need to do well32. By focusing on building and keeping up with this network, you’ll get better at balancing work and life. You’ll also find new chances for growth in your career and personal life323334.
Monetization Strategies for Multiple Blogs
As I’ve grown in my blogging journey, I’ve tried different monetization strategies to make steady revenue streams from my blogs. By spreading out my income sources, I’ve made more passive income. This has helped me rely less on my main job and move closer to living off my blogs35.
Affiliate marketing is a big part of my monetization strategies. I promote products my readers like and earn money when they buy them36. This way, I make money without much work, especially in areas like insurance and finance36.
I’ve also looked into sponsored content to make more money. Working with brands that match my readers’ interests helps me earn more while giving them useful content37. It’s important to make sure the sponsored content fits well with my blog’s style37.
Creating my own digital products, like e-books and courses, is another way I make money. Using my knowledge and my blogs’ loyal readers, I’ve made content they’re willing to pay for. This brings in passive income and helps me connect more with my readers37.
Learning to spread out my revenue streams has been key. Not just sticking to one way to make money has made my blogging business more stable. This has helped me move towards blogging full-time, giving me the money and freedom to focus on what I love35.
For successful blog monetization, it’s important to know what your readers want and give them valuable content. By always making quality content and using different revenue streams, I’ve turned my blogging into a strong business3637.
As I keep growing my blogging empire, I’m excited to try new monetization strategies and add more income sources. By being flexible and quick to adapt, I’m sure I can keep a good balance between my job and my blogging. This will help me reach my goal of being a full-time blogger and entrepreneur35.
Embracing Flexibility and Pivoting When Needed
Running multiple blogs while working full-time has taught me the value of embracing flexibility and pivoting when needed. As things change, I’ve had to adjust my plans and try new things. This entrepreneurial mindset keeps me strong when challenges come up and lets me grab new chances as they appear.
Being able to change is key in the fast-changing world of online work. What works today might not work tomorrow. Flexibility lets me quickly adapt to new trends and find fresh ways to connect with my audience and grow my blogs38.
When some plans didn’t work out, I didn’t hesitate to pivot and try something new. This openness to change has made me more adaptable and resilient38.
Sometimes, I’ve had to make hard choices, like stopping certain projects. It’s tough, but pivoting is sometimes necessary for success. By always being open to change and checking my goals, I keep a good balance between work and my passion projects38.
Having an entrepreneurial mindset has helped me deal with the ups and downs. I see challenges as chances to grow and get better. This flexibility has helped me succeed in my blogs and made me a better employee38.
The ability to pivot and stay adaptable has changed the game for me. It lets me take advantage of new opportunities, get past obstacles, and keep a good balance between work and life. By adopting this mindset, I’ve made a fulfilling life that combines blogging with a stable job38.
Tool | Feature | Cost |
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TubeBuddy | YouTube channel management tool for keyword research, analytics, and competitor analysis | 38 |
ThriveCart | Online course and membership hosting platform with a lifetime license | 38 |
Flodesk | Email provider with 50% off for the first year and unlimited email subscribers | 38 |
Honeybook | Platform for Virtual Assistants and Freelancers with templates for contracts, invoicing, scheduling, and client management | N/A |
LLC Formation | Cost for a straightforward process to create an LLC for an online business | 38 |
By being open to flexibility and pivoting, I’ve managed to balance my full-time job and blogs. This entrepreneurial mindset has been key to my success, keeping me adaptable and resilient. I’m thankful for the lessons and opportunities this journey has given me.
Lessons Learned and Advice for Aspiring Bloggers
Looking back on my journey of balancing a full-time job and blogging, I’ve learned a lot. I want to share these lessons with those starting out. The path has had ups and downs, but I’ve found key lessons. These include the importance of prioritizing, delegating, automating, and keeping a good work-life balance39.
To those starting out, I suggest making a detailed schedule and being flexible. Always keep your passion alive, as it’s what keeps you going. With the right strategies and mindset, you can reach your entrepreneurial dreams and do well in your main job40.
From my own experiences, I’ve seen that success in blogging isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being consistent, flexible, and open to learning. Facing challenges and celebrating small victories helps build the resilience needed to make your blog successful41.
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