The life of a small business director: Juggling everything everywhere all at once

Written by Neil Betts from Go True North

Running a small business is no small feat. It’s a role that demands flexibility and resilience. The ability to run a small business is no small feat.

It’s a role that demands flexibility, resilience, and the ability to wear every hat imaginable. This past week, I lived every facet of being the “director of everything.” From strategic planning to family commitments, the week was a whirlwind of activity. Here’s a glimpse into the week that was:

• Attended a financial training session to sharpen my financial acumen. Keeping the numbers in check is vital to any business's success.
• Facilitated a senior management Hoshin workshop, aligning strategic goals with execution for a client.
• Played my favourited role: parent, with multiple school runs and attending two sixth form open days to support my child’s next big decision.
• Supported family: ran my mom and dad to a hospital appointment, took my sister to hospital, and visited her later.
• Advanced my business goals by updating content for the Vision to Venture course, ensuring it delivers maximum value.
• Engaged with peers at four networking meetings and shared insights with two small business coaching clients.
• Got creative for a lean awareness workshop—yes, Lego was involved!
• An evening out with Mom and Dad watching Dad's Army the radio show!
• Prepared for interviews with four small businesses to understand their experiences for the Vision to Venture startup program.
• Wrapped up the week with a meeting with my Australian clients, managing international relationships with care.
• A wonderful dancing weekend away with my wife.

It wasn’t all work. This week was a reminder of the complex balance required to manage business and personal responsibilities. It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, but there’s also immense pride in navigating these challenges.

The lesson?

Being the “director of everything” isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up. It’s about agility, adaptability and leaning on your support network when needed.

To all the small business owners out there doing the juggle—you’re not alone.