Lisa Hawkins is the founder of Life Balance Essentials, a bespoke service specialising in inbox management and life admin support for senior executives and successful business owners. With over a decade of experience, Lisa is passionate about helping clients reclaim their time and focus on what matters most. Known for her strategic approach to organisation and productivity, she has recently launched a membership platform and provides workshops designed to empower individuals with time management skills.

Can you tell our readers about your background?

I’ve always been drawn to roles that require organisation, problem-solving, and helping others. My career began in administrative roles within the corporate sector. Over time, I realised I had a knack for managing complex schedules, streamlining processes, and anticipating the needs of busy professionals. My own personal life experiences also made me realise that I have a special skill for getting jobs done efficiently and delivering results. This led me to start Life Balance Essentials in 2013, where I’ve been able to channel my skills into making a real difference for my clients.

What inspired you to start your business?

The inspiration came from seeing how overwhelmed many professionals were by their day-to-day responsibilities. I noticed a gap in the market for personalised, high-level life administrative support that could adapt to the unique needs of individuals. I wanted to create a service that not only handled tasks but also provided peace of mind, allowing clients to focus on their priorities without worrying about the details.

Where is your business based?

Life Balance Essentials is based in Melbourne, but thanks to the flexibility of remote work, I’m able to support clients globally. This setup has allowed me to connect with a diverse range of professionals.

How did you start your business? What were the first steps you took?

Starting my business involved a lot of planning and research. At the time, I was based in Tasmania and leaned heavily on the support of local mentors who guided me through the process. The first step was identifying my niche and understanding the specific needs of my target audience. I then built a website and began networking to spread the word about my services. My initial clients came through referrals, which underscored the importance of building strong relationships and delivering exceptional results. I am still in contact with these mentors today, and their insights continue to shape my approach to business.

What has been the most effective way of raising awareness for your business?

Word of mouth has been incredibly powerful for my business. When clients see the value of my services, they’re more than happy to recommend me to their colleagues and friends. Additionally, hosting workshops and speaking at events has helped position me as an expert in time management and productivity.

What have been your biggest challenges and how did you overcome them?

One of the biggest challenges has been managing growth while maintaining the bespoke nature of my services. To overcome this, I’ve focused on setting clear boundaries and being selective about the clients I take on. This ensures I can give each client the attention they deserve while staying true to my business values. Hiring the right employees is also a challenge. Finding that perfect balance of quality and quantity, especially with the level of privacy required, means we need to make sure we have the right people. This involves thorough vetting and ensuring that new hires align with our values and standards.

How do you stay focused?

Staying focused requires a combination of discipline and self-care. I rely heavily on time-blocking and prioritisation to manage my tasks. Regular breaks and mindfulness practices also help me stay energised and avoid burnout. I also try to attend a gym class daily, which helps to clear my head when that fog sets in.

How do you differentiate your business from the competition?

My business stands out because of its highly personalised approach. I don’t offer cookie-cutter solutions; instead, I take the time to understand each client’s unique needs and tailor my services accordingly. This level of customisation, combined with my extensive experience, sets Life Balance Essentials apart.

What has been your most effective marketing strategy to grow your business?

Building authentic relationships has been my most effective strategy. Whether it’s through networking events, social media, or one-on-one conversations, I’ve found that genuine connections lead to long-term clients and valuable referrals.

What's your best piece of advice for aspiring and new entrepreneurs?

Don’t be afraid to start small and grow organically. Focus on delivering value and building trust with your clients. Listen to your heart and give those ideas a go—you never know what will stick. My girlfriend once said to me, "If you don't do it, someone else will." Also, remember that it’s okay to ask for help. Surround yourself with mentors and peers who can provide guidance and support.

What's your favorite app, blog, and book? Why?

I believe the best apps are those that genuinely help you stay organised day-to-day. Don’t be attracted to the latest shiny thing, as it often takes time to learn. The most basic apps offered on your phone, like calendars, notes, and emails, are the best ones to start with. I enjoy blogs from fellow entrepreneurs I know and seeing what people are up to. As for books, “Atomic Habits” by James Clear is a favorite because it offers practical strategies for building good habits and breaking bad ones.

What's your favorite business tool or resource? Why?

I’m a big fan of Zoom for virtual meetings. It’s user-friendly and has been instrumental in connecting with clients and collaborators, especially in a remote work environment.

Who is your business role model? Why?

Kate Reid, the founder of Lune, comes to mind as I recently saw her speak. She is a huge inspiration to me. Her story of perseverance and passion resonates deeply, and I admire how she’s turned her unique vision into a globally recognised brand.

How do you balance work and life?

Balancing work and life is an ongoing process. I set clear boundaries, such as designated work hours, and make time for family and self-care. Delegating tasks and saying no to unnecessary commitments have also been crucial in maintaining balance.

What’s your favourite way to decompress?

Spending time outdoors is my go-to way to unwind. Whether it’s a walk in nature or a weekend camping trip, being in the fresh air helps me recharge and refocus.

What do you have planned for the next six months?

In the next six months, I’m focusing on expanding my membership platform and launching new workshops. I’m also working on creating more digital resources to help professionals improve their productivity and time management skills.

How can our readers connect with you?

Readers can connect with me through my website and social media platforms. I’m always happy to engage and share insights about productivity and work-life balance.

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