In Nigeria today, being an entrepreneur is no small feat. From chasing customers to managing staff, handling finances, and still showing up for family and friends—it can feel like you’re being pulled in a thousand directions. Many business owners are so focused on survival and growth that they forget to rest, eat well, or even spend time with their loved ones. But the truth is, if you don’t find a way to balance work and life, you may burn out.
Read more about Career
Work-life balance is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. A successful business means little if your health suffers or your relationships fall apart. So, how can Nigerian entrepreneurs find that sweet spot between chasing business goals and enjoying life? Let’s talk about it in simple and honest terms.
1. Accept That You Can’t Do Everything
Many Nigerian entrepreneurs try to be superhuman. You’re the CEO, the marketer, the delivery person, the accountant—and the cleaner too. But the truth is, you can’t do it all. Not for long.
Start by accepting that it’s okay to ask for help. Delegate what you can. Hire a virtual assistant, train a team member, or use technology to automate tasks. When you free up your time, you make room for life outside work.
2. Create a Simple Daily Schedule
Time is precious. If you don’t control it, it will control you. As an entrepreneur, one of the best ways to balance work and life is to plan your day.
Start your day with a to-do list. Divide your time between business and personal tasks. For example:
- 8:00 am – 10:00 am: Client calls and emails
- 10:00 am – 12:00 pm: Product delivery or market run
- 12:00 pm – 1:00 pm: Break and lunch
- 1:00 pm – 4:00 pm: Admin work or meetings
- 4:00 pm – 6:00 pm: Exercise, family time, or rest
Stick to the plan as much as possible. Having structure helps you stay focused and avoid overworking.
3. Set Boundaries
In Nigeria, especially when you work for yourself, people assume you’re always available. Family members can call at any time. Clients want quick responses, even at night or on weekends. But if you don’t set boundaries, people will drain you.
Decide your work hours—and respect them. Don’t take calls after 7 pm if it’s your rest time. Let your clients and team know when you’re available. Protect your peace. Your business will not collapse if you take time to rest.
4. Use Technology Wisely
Your phone, laptop, and social media can either help or harm your balance. Use tools like WhatsApp Business, Google Calendar, and email scheduling to make your life easier. Automate messages, track appointments, and reduce the need to always be online.
But also learn to switch off. When you’re with your family or taking a walk, put the phone down. Be present. Life is more than business.
Sign up for the Connect Nigeria daily newsletter
5. Take Care of Your Health
Many Nigerian entrepreneurs work themselves into sickness. No time to rest, no time to eat well, no time to move. But your body is the engine behind your hustle. If it breaks down, your business suffers too.
Start small:
- Drink water regularly
- Take short walks during the day
- Eat balanced meals (even if it’s ewa agoyin and plantain)
- Sleep at least 6–7 hours a night
- Go for regular health checkups
Your health is part of your business plan. Don’t ignore it.
6. Make Time for Family and Friends
What’s the point of working so hard if you lose the people who love you? As a Nigerian entrepreneur, it’s easy to forget birthdays, anniversaries, or even school events. But relationships matter.
Schedule family time like you schedule meetings. It could be a Sunday lunch, evening walks, or movie nights. Your loved ones want your presence, not just your money.
7. Celebrate Small Wins
Don’t wait until you hit a big milestone before you take a break or reward yourself. Every small win matters—closing a deal, getting good feedback, learning a new skill.
Celebrate with a treat. Maybe a chilled bottle of malt, a new pair of shoes, or a day off. Joy fuels motivation. Learn to pause and enjoy the journey.
8. Know When to Say “No”
Not every opportunity is worth your peace. As your business grows, more people will come with “urgent” requests, partnerships, or events. Learn to say no to things that don’t align with your goals or values.
Saying no is not being proud—it’s protecting your time and energy.
Register to attend the CN Business Mixer
Final Thoughts
To balance work and life as a Nigerian entrepreneur is to take your health, happiness, and relationships seriously—just as you take your profits. It’s about choosing rest without guilt and choosing presence over pressure.
Your business matters. But so does your life.
So, breathe. Work smart. Rest well. Love deeply. And never forget—you are not just building a business. You are building a life worth living.
And in that life, balance is not just possible—it’s necessary.
Featured Image Source: HULT International Business School
Got something you want to read about on our platform? Contact us: [email protected]
