The VA Edge: Summer Productivity

1. Time-Block Your Schedule

Set specific blocks for your business and family time. Define your working hours and communicate them clearly to clients and team members. Your digital calendar is gold! Use it to:

• Book focused work sessions

• Include breaks and family time

• Set reminders so nothing slips through the cracks

2. Streamline Your Daily Tasks

Identify recurring or low-priority tasks that can be simplified or scheduled for later. Create a daily priority list, then:

• Tackle your most important task first

• Use productivity tools like task managers or to-do apps

• Limit multitasking and focus on one thing at a time (try the Pomodoro Technique)

3. Pre-Schedule Content and Communication

Stay consistent without being constantly online by planning:

• Schedule your social media posts and newsletters in batches

• Draft email responses to common inquiries

• Use templates or canned responses for efficiency

4. Plan Ahead for Time Off

Whether you're taking a day or a week off, planning ahead reduces stress:

• Set up an out-of-office message with clear return details

• Notify clients in advance and manage expectations

• Tie up loose ends on active projects before your break

5. Know When to Ask for Help

You don’t have to do everything alone. If you're feeling overwhelmed, consider getting support from a part-time employee or virtual assistant (VA) to manage tasks like inbox organization, scheduling, or client follow-ups.

You don’t have to choose between running your business and enjoying summer with your family. With smart planning and consistent habits, you can stay productive, protect your time, and still create memories that matter.

Summer can be a juggling act for business owners who are also parents. Between kids out of school, family vacations, and client needs, it’s easy to feel stretched thin. But with a few intentional strategies, you can stay productive and present, both at home and in your business.

Here are some practical tips to keep things running smoothly.