As a busy mom entrepreneur, you’ve probably heard about the importance of a CEO date. But implementing this crucial habit can be challenging. In this post, we’ll dive deep into what a CEO date is, why it’s vital for your business, and how to make it a non-negotiable part of your weekly routine.

What is a CEO Date?

A CEO date is a dedicated block of time you set aside weekly for high-level planning and strategic thinking in your business. It’s your opportunity to step back from client work and daily tasks to reflect, set goals, track progress, and develop strategies that drive your business forward.

Why is a CEO Date Important?

1. It prevents overwhelm by giving you a dedicated time to address big-picture issues
2. Ensures long-term growth and success by focusing on strategic planning rather than just day-to-day operations
3. Allows you to approach each workblock with confidence and clarity, knowing you have a clear direction for your business

Did you know? Companies that plan grow 30% faster than those that don’t, and for every hour of planning, you save 10 hours in execution!

5 Ways to Make Your CEO Date a Habit

1. Make it a Standing Appointment

• Set a consistent day and time: This helps your brain associate that specific time with your CEO duties
• Aim for 2 hours weekly, with one 4-hour session monthly: This allows for regular check-ins and a deeper dive once a month
• Set reminders and alarms: Use multiple reminders (e.g., day before, 2 hours before, 30 minutes before) to ensure you don’t forget

2. Make it Fun

• Get out of the house: Choose a location that’s free from your usual distractions
• Grab your favorite coffee or drink: Create a positive association with your CEO date
• Create a custom instrumental playlist: Music can help you focus and get into the right mindset
• Use a new notebook or fun pens: Invest in tools that make you excited to plan and strategize

3. Start Small and Build Up

• Begin with reflection and brain dumping: Start by simply getting your thoughts on paper
• Gradually incorporate more elements: Add goal-setting, progress tracking, and strategic planning as you get comfortable
• Increase duration over time: Start with 30 minutes if needed, and work your way up to longer sessions

4. Get Accountability

• Find a business bestie or accountability partner: Schedule regular check-ins to discuss progress and challenges
• Join a coaching program: Get professional guidance and support in implementing your CEO date practice
• Use a habit-tracking app: Log your CEO dates and track your streak to stay motivated

5. Create a Structured Routine

• Follow a consistent process (e.g., Reflect, Plan Ahead, Track, Get Strategic): Having a framework keeps you focused and ensures you cover all important aspects
• Keep your routine documented and easily accessible: Create a checklist or template you can refer to each time
• Refine your process over time: Adjust your routine as you learn what works best for you and your business

4 Ways to Protect Your CEO Date

1. Communicate Its Importance

• Explain the value to family and team members: Help them understand how this time contributes to your business success
• Treat it as a non-negotiable appointment: Approach it with the same commitment as you would a client meeting

2. Eliminate Distractions

• Choose a quiet, dedicated workspace: Whether at home or out, find a space that allows you to focus
• Turn off notifications and avoid client work: Resist the urge to check emails or respond to non-urgent matters
• Use focus apps or browser extensions: Block distracting websites during your CEO date

3. Arrange Support

• Schedule a babysitter if needed: Ensure you have uninterrupted time to focus on your business
• Delegate tasks to free up your CEO time: Identify tasks that can be handled by team members or family
• Prepare meals or other household tasks in advance: Minimize potential interruptions or stress

4. Prioritize Self-Care

• Boosts energy and focus: A well-rested, healthy you is more productive during your CEO date
• Reduces burnout risk: Regular self-care helps maintain your enthusiasm for your business long-term
• Improves boundary-setting: Prioritizing yourself makes it easier to protect your CEO date time

Remember to do regular “capacity checks” by asking yourself:

• What’s going well right now?
• What’s not going well?
• What do I want more of?
• What do I want less of?
• What can I do to get more of what I want and less of what I don’t?

Consider how your future self will feel when making commitments.

Put yourself in that future moment and ask:

• How will I feel about this commitment when the time comes?
• What else is happening around that time that might impact my energy or availability?
• Is this aligned with my long-term goals and vision for my business?

By implementing these strategies, you’ll be well on your way to making your CEO date a powerful tool for business growth. Start today by scheduling your first CEO date and watch your business transform from chaotic to strategic, from overwhelmed to purposeful.

Your future self will thank you!

Thank you for spending part of your day with me.

And as always, mama, I am here rooting for you and you are not alone on this journey.

Complimentary Episodes:

1. Ep 171. Implement Weekly CEO Dates For Strategic Growth
2. Ep 123. What to Do During Your CEO Day
3. Ep 83. The Importance of a Personal CEO Day

Resources:

1. Transform your hectic days into a purposeful, balanced life with the Ideal Week Blueprint. This is your roadmap to time mastery and goal achievement.
2. Join the Profit Shift Challenge – 14 Day challenge to to Optimize Your Limited Time & Maximize your Revenue as a Mompreneur 
3. Need support managing your time well and creating systems to streamline your Photography Business? Join the Efficient Mompreneur (12 Month Group Coaching Program)
4. Message me on Voxer (My username is afreehan)
5. Have a question for me? Or a specific struggle you’re dealing with? I’ll address your question on the podcast. Submit your ‘Ask Ashley’ question here
6. Local to Gilbert/Mesa Arizona (For Mom Business Owners) Join our in person membership community