One Hour With Teri Gault – Part Ten

This is the 10^th and FINAL part in my series “One Hour With Teri Gault”, the result of a fantastic telephone interview with Teri, the founder and CEO of The Grocery Game and TeriToday.com.

Disclaimer: Please note that I did not use a voice recorder for this conversation, so all of the answers are paraphrased from memory and very detailed notes, not direct quotes.

As I mentioned earlier, I’ve developed a coupon organization system based on the use of The Grocery Game and the social networking that goes on with other coupon clippers on blogs and message boards, as well as a charitable piece that centers on sending the expired coupons as a group to the Military Overseas Coupon Program. What advice would you give to me, as another mom starting out in business for herself?

Compartmentalize your time and do NOT let business bleed into your family time. If that means you don’t bring your laptop or cell phone along, then don’t bring the laptop or cell phone. Really keep focused and remember that the priorities of others will not always be the same as your priorities. Make sure you establish and stick to firm boundaries when it comes to your time with your family.

I try to keep on a regular schedule whenever I’m home. I make sure to take time to exercise, even if I’m multitasking and reading the trade magazines or business articles to stay current whenever I’m on the cross trainer. We both know how hard it is to be a working mom, and we’re always multitasking.

It’s also important to take time for yourself. Set aside time for yourself, make appointments if you have to, and always keep those appointments with yourself. I’m kind of a health nut. When I’m eating something, I’m thinking about whether it’s good fuel for my body or if it’s not good fuel. Obviously, it’s not possible to do this every single time, but it’s really important. If you get run down and sick, you aren’t going to be any good for anyone.

So, that’s my biggest suggestion. Make sure you compartmentalize your time and make sure you keep enough of it for yourself and your family.

Well, that’s the end of it. My hour with Teri Gault, founder and CEO of The Grocery Game. I certainly hope that this hour (or two weeks, haha) has been as enlightening for you as it has for me. I’ve really enjoyed sharing everything Teri and I discussed with you and getting your feedback and comments. Please don’t stop sharing those great ideas and thoughts here.

I’d love to hear your thoughts about Teri’s tips. What advice would you give me?

***If you sign up for The Grocery Game, give me a hand and tell them  sent you.