A recent medical scare really hit home about the need to be ready for the unexpected. It started one Friday when, out of the blue, I felt a sharp pain shoot down my leg and a burning sensation in my knee while driving home from breakfast with a friend. By the next morning, the pain had moved to my foot, bringing numbness and tingling with it.
After a discussion with my husband, I called the doctor, who sent us straight to the ER. We headed to a nearby small hospital; surprisingly, within an hour, I was scheduled for an MRI at a larger facility. The results showed that I needed to see a surgeon for further answers, but with the holidays shutting down offices, I was stuck in a painful and frustrating waiting game.
Being propped up on the couch is BORING! During this scheduled downtime, I had plans—sewing, decluttering, and finishing setting up my newly painted workspace. I couldn’t help but think about how unprepared I was for such an interruption and realized how many daily responsibilities my husband wasn't clued into.
What if something happened during surgery? Would he know passwords for bank accounts, credit cards, insurance, utilities, etc? How would he notify my clients if I wouldn’t be able to work for them for a while?
It doesn’t take something as big as surgery to disrupt your plans. A surprise trip, a sick child, or even a tech breakdown can throw off your routine.
Here are some helpful tips:
1. Keep a Clear Schedule: I blocked off my calendar to rest and informed my clients I’d be unavailable. Do you have a system to update your clients quickly?
2. Share Key Info: Keep a secure, updated record of accounts, passwords, and essential documents, and make sure your spouse or a trusted family member knows how to access them.
3. Delegate Tasks: Day-to-day tasks like paying bills or taking out the trash aren’t glamorous, but they’re essential. Who can handle these while you recover?
4. Plan for Big “What Ifs”: What if you couldn’t work for a month? A CRM may have all of your client info, but make sure someone knows how to access it if you’re out of commission. Create a secure document with passwords, client contacts, and account details for emergencies. A trusted backup, a solid emergency fund, and clear client communication plans are invaluable.
Are you prepared for the unexpected? If you’re unsure where to start or need help setting up your systems, I specialize in creating streamlined processes that can keep both your home and business running smoothly, no matter what life throws your way. Let's talk today and ensure you’re ready for anything!