The first month of 2017 is almost over and just like everyone else's January, mine has been "busy!" Lately, I have been making a conscious effort to come up with a real response when people ask how I'm doing (why is that so difficult?!), so instead of telling people that I'm "busy" I have tried to come up with a few substitutes. Most of my friends know that I am working on freelance events and marketing projects now, but I haven't had the chance to talk to some people in detail so of course they are curious when we run into each other. If I have time to give an explanation of what I have been working on lately or tell them about the things I've been doing, then I am happy to chat with them and give them a life update. If someone is just making small talk and asks how I'm doing... I struggle! Please tell me what tips you have for not giving a generic response like "I've been busy" or "I'm just working a lot." PS. Those sound terrible! If that's your true answer and work is all you do, then let me encourage you to cut back and find a hobby! 

As I am creating my work flow for the year and looking at which projects to accept, I have to keep in mind that I didn't start doing freelance work so that I could work 80 hours every week and make a ton of money. I started doing this so that I could earn a living and have a flexible work/life balance that allows me to enjoy my work and still spend time with my friends and hobbies that I love. Balance is key! If you're a freelancer or entrepreneur, I would love to hear how you maintain balance- especially if you work from home!