You’re a franchisee. How can you manage your workload to prevent burnout?

The great thing about being a franchisee is that you have a system that works, a franchisor who is invested in helping you succeed, and a network of others who have been where you are now. Focusing on the tasks that need to be done first and following the system helps to reduce your workload. Considering which tasks are required, and which ones will be nice to include once you're established is a good way to keep your workload at a manageable level. Engage your franchisor in the goal setting process - they should be able to provide guidance on what's most important at your specific stage of the business.

No point trying to do it all at once. Managing workload and preventing burnout starts with setting realistic goals. Focus on areas you control and prioritize ruthlessly. Break down big goals into measurable milestones and celebrate every achievement. Don't be afraid to seek support from your franchisor or fellow franchisees, and automate tasks where possible.

Tener muy en claro que acciones serán de gran impacto en el negocio. Hacer foco en esos temas con metas desafiantes pero realistas en cuanto a la obtención de resultados. Si no se puede medir, no se puede mejorar! Cada meta debería tener "un dueño" que trabaje en equipo para obtener resultados

Don't think you will be able to handle everything and let the experts handle certain business areas such as marketing, payroll, and accounting. Get comfortable in delegating some of your work to your managers and staff and focus your efforts on growing the business. Most staff are eager to help out and are looking to try new things and learn more about the franchise business. I refer back to this management quote often in both my CPA and Franchisee career - “If something can be done 80% as well by someone else, delegate!” - John C. Maxwell

Un Franquiciado no puede estar o tener el control de todos los temas al mismo tiempo. Delegar es crucial y armar equipos de trabajo exitosos permitiría no solamente una operación exitosa sino también dejarle tiempo libre al Franquiciado para enfocarse en la estrategia de su negocio.

The ability to delegate is one of the most valuable skills to have as an entrepreneur. Too many entrepreneurs burn out by trying to "do it all". Instead, focus on what you're best at, and keep in mind that delegating certain tasks to other professionals/specialists means you can get the "best of the best" in each area vs. one person trying to be the best at everything.

Many franchisees get caught in the trap of being the "owner." As the owner, it's easy for your employees to defer their decision making to you. Years ago I worked for a franchise company who trained their franchisees to do sales calls on the way in to the store in the morning, or to go see a customer. This forced the staff in the store to learn how to operate the business without the owner being there. Don't let yourself get wrapped into making every decision and coming up with every good idea. Hire well and your employees can do those things too!

La frontera entre el tiempo de trabajo y el personal suele estar "difuso" en un Franquiciado. Pero éste debería tener la capacidad de saber delegar y poner ciertos límites claros entre trabajo y vida personal. No poner esos límites generará problemas en ambas áreas impactando negativamente en su persona. El tiempo personal debe ser "sagrado" y ser utilizado al 100% sin interferencias laborales.

Toda marca con una Franquicia exitosa cuenta con una "Red de Contención" para sus franquiciados. Lo más común es un Consultor de Franquicias que es el primer contacto con el que cuenta éste para llevar el negocio de manera eficiente. Esas marcas también cuentan con mucha información que puede resultar de mucha ayuda al franquiciado con algún tema en particular.

Consider attending franchise conferences to learn more about the industry and learn from your peers. Take the opportunity to network with some of your fellow franchisees at regional meetings.