As Family First Entrepreneurs we must be aware that we set boundaries with people we do business with and those boundaries protect what we hold dear: time with our family.  As we hold to that standard for ourselves, we must not only support it in others, we must encourage it. 

With our employees we should make it clear that it is not only acceptable, it is encouraged that they ask for what they need to stay “family first.” If we see one of our people getting out of balance, we should be willing to assist him or her to move back toward a more centered approach to work and family life.   Employees who are supported in this way will not only be more productive as a whole, they will remain loyal.  Family First companies make sense and money. 

When you are in a direct business relationship with people, don’t put demands on them that pull them from their family focus.  We all need to work, but we also need to support a work/life balance.  It’s also okay to burn that work life/family life candle at both ends every now and then, just not all the time.  Monitor what you’re willing to demand of someone.

Keep what is dear to you important and support it in others.  Support and encourage putting families first.  You will make more money, build better relationships and people will remain loyal.  It’s not only what is right to do, it is what is smart to do.