We can become very much like a computer with too many windows open, eventually something has to crash. So as you would log off and shut down your computer to allow it to reboot, you need to also do the same for yourself.

It is no surprise that home based businesses are on the rise.  The desire to be your own boss has become a reality and this is compounded by the lack of security in today's workforce. It is questionable whether any role would last the life of a person these days, and so many of us find ourselves as directors, managers and owners.

Once upon a time, people who found mentors were considered lucky. The more formalized approach to mentoring that exists today is testament to just how important a good mentor can be. As Amy Gallo wrote recently in the Harvard Business Review blog, the commonly held belief that mentoring is only for those beginning their career is a myth¹. So is the idea that mentors are limited to the world of work; in fact, mentoring is becoming increasingly relevant to our lives outside the office.

We've all heard of business mentors, but what exactly is a healthy life mentor, and why might you need one?

As a business owner a lot of emphasis is put on following a fluid business plan, having an ever-evolving marketing strategy, effective sales techniques and constantly refining the niche, to mention a few of the core aspects. However, there is one other extremely important factor to consider – who are you in your business?

Is this the same person that runs the home or gets the children off to school, most likely not. It is another role, another hat that is worn throughout a day on our journey to gaining a successful business and fulfilling life.

What can you do to maximise who you are without compromising on the quality, the passion and the determination to provide the results to your business?

I tend to be a procrastinator. I also know that I am not alone!  I decided this week, to give myself a challenge and put into action something that I have been delaying - Clearing Clutter - one thing that really does get me down, living in clutter – potential chaos even!

When we talk about de-cluttering, people usually start thinking about the most obvious places in need, their desk and work area, the kitchen or wardrobe. There are many areas in our lives which need to be de-cluttered that are not so obvious such as areas in the garden or garage, activities which no longer serve us, newsletters we subscribe to, files on our computer, to-do lists and even people!

If you consider the big picture of your career and the jobs within it, you could see a pattern on how you make career decisions. When I reflect on mine, I have clarity about what matters to me, that is, my values have driven my career decisions.

I value well being, honesty and empowerment and contribution to others to make a difference. People who have worked with me have valued my courage to work through difficult situations, with integrity. In hindsight, I'm sure I could have handled some situations differently, and it's important to learn from your errors.

We can all recall a time where we felt completely alive and about to burst with so much focus and energy. We smile when we think about it because it sometimes feels a little silly and even has a childlike quality. The best part about this state is the results that we were able to achieve and the people we inspired along the way purely because of our disposition and the inspiration that oozed from us.

So, what inspires you to play at 100%?

Where would you like to see yourself, career wise, this time next year? Do you make plans and never follow through? This article will give you ten tips to choose from - choose ONE of them to get started on your renewed career journey. Each step will require some effort on your part to research yourself or information about your career interests. If you could do one action that would make a difference – what would it be? This is they key for you to get started in your career growth. Make a commitment and take action today.