Being Boss: Take Control of Your Work and Live Life on Your Own Terms

Your word is your wand: This bit of wisdom comes from metaphysician Florence Scovel Shinn. The idea is that the things you say out loud (or think to yourself, really) will become your reality. If you want to manifest a productive and creative reality, say and think productive and creative things.

I gave up organized benefits for flexibility. I gave up a dependable paycheck and low-risk employment for doing work that compensated me in ways other than cash. None of it was easy, but I can promise it’s been worth it.

• DO YOGA EVERY WEEK DURING BUSINESS HOURS • STOCK UP ON SALADS AND PREP YOUR MEALS FOR THE WEEK • START THE DAY WHEN YOU FEEL LIKE IT • TAKE A DAILY WALK • HAVE A GREEN SMOOTHIE • WORK FROM A COFFEE SHOP, YOUR KITCHEN TABLE, OR BY A POOL

It’s only when you incorporate elements of self-care (things like spending time in nature, quieting your mind through meditation, and incorporating elements of fun into your day) that you feel inspired to create the type of business and life you want.

When you commit to enjoying the process, you’re doing work that energizes you and living a life that you love.

Take stock: How do you currently begin your day? What works? What doesn’t? • What are you doing in the morning that is NOT helpful or productive? • What makes you feel energized and grounded in the mornings? • How much time do you need for your ideal morning routine?

morning, or even a short cleaning session to tidy up your home or office at the end of your workday. When we

Habits and routines anchor you in your day and root you into your role as a creative entrepreneur. They’re the antidote to the feelings of fear and uncertainty that plague us all.

Bosses insist on a healthy lifestyle in which personal health is a priority, including getting enough sleep, eating well, and listening to their bodies. Bosses have hobbies outside work that keep them learning and challenging themselves in ways that make them lifelong learners. Being boss means that you’re intentionally multifaceted, and you have t