When people think of owning a business, they often picture someone doing the work they love: a baker baking, a designer designing, a translator translating.
But the truth is, there are two sides to every business—and successful solopreneurs know they need to wear both hats.
As a certified translator, I have a deep passion for language. I love the precision, the nuance, the clarity that comes with transforming one message into another.
But there’s another side of my business that’s just as important—running it.
The Two Parts of a Business
- The Specialized Work (Your Craft)
This is your zone of genius—the part of the job that you trained for, love doing, and likely started the business to do in the first place.
In my case: translating with accuracy, professionalism, and care. - The Business Work (The Machine That Keeps It Going)
This includes all the behind-the-scenes tasks:- Bookkeeping and invoicing
- Marketing and client communication
- Planning and goal setting
- Tools, technology, and file organization
- Legal and administrative obligations
Without the second part, the first part struggles to survive.
Finding the Right Balance
There are seasons when the craft takes the lead—you’re deep in client work and loving it.
Other times, the business side needs attention—updating your invoicing system, refreshing your website, doing follow-ups, or tackling taxes.
And that’s okay.
Being a solopreneur means learning how to shift gracefully between those two roles.
5 Tips to Manage Both Sides of Your Business
1. Time-block for business tasks
Block off a specific time each week to tackle tasks like invoicing, organizing files, or catching up on emails—don’t save them for late nights when your energy is running low. For me, this time is usually Saturday mornings, accompanied by a hot, delicious cup of coffee. It’s a simple routine that helps me stay on top of things without feeling rushed.
2. Automate where you can
Use templates for quotes and invoices to save time and keep things consistent. Set billing reminders so nothing slips through the cracks. Personally, I like using Excel for my bookkeeping—it’s simple and familiar. But I’ve heard great things about tools like Trello and Wave for managing recurring tasks and staying organized. I also make good use of CANVA and ChatGPT when it’s convenient—they’re great for quick content creation and idea development. And when it comes to staying connected and organized, I really enjoy working in Microsoft Office 365, especially OneDrive, OneNote, and Copilot. These tools make my workflow smoother and more accessible, wherever I am.
3. Don’t wait for emergencies
Keep your bookkeeping up to date. Review your rates. Check your business goals every few months. Prevent small issues from becoming big headaches.
4. Learn just enough business to feel confident
You don’t need an MBA to run a successful business, but having a basic understanding of things like taxes, marketing, and client management can make a big difference. I completed a Marketing Certificate through Athabasca University, and I make it a point to attend workshops or conferences whenever I can—continuous learning helps me feel more confident and stay sharp.
5. Treat your business like a client
Schedule time to work on your business, not just in it. Whether it’s updating your profile, nurturing your mailing list, or cleaning up your digital files—your business deserves attention too.
A Personal Note
As a full-time school principal, my time is precious. I run my translation business in the margins—after school, on weekends, during the summer.
So I’ve learned to be strategic and realistic.
Some weeks, I’m in translation mode. Other weeks, I’m catching up on admin or reconnecting with past clients.
I’ve learned not to guilt myself for the shifts. That’s part of the rhythm of solopreneurship.
And the beauty is this: you get to build a business that fits your life—not the other way around.
Final Thought
Being a business owner means mastering both your craft and the engine that drives it.
It’s not always easy, but it’s deeply rewarding. And with a little structure, a lot of patience, and a dose of courage—you’ll do just fine.
So here’s your reminder:
You are the technician, the bookkeeper, the administrator, the social media expert, the client care specialist—and the owner.
You wear every hat, juggle every role, and make it all work.
Own them all. Balance them with grace. And never forget why you started.
Your business is not just what you do—it’s a reflection of who you are and the passion that drives you.
Written with the support of ChatGPT by OpenAI to help shape and clarify my ideas.