"I wanted freedom from a boss so I started my own business. Now I need freedom from my business because it's running my life." Sound like you?

Here are three tips to help you find that freedom.

1. Put your stake in the ground. Where are you headed with your business? Can't answer because you're too busy working on yesterday's problems? Stop and do it now. Much of your freedom is being eaten up by activities that won't get you where you want to go. Define where that is and work toward it.

2. Set boundaries. Don't take on work that steals time you should be dedicating to focusing on sales of your core product or service. Sometimes you just have to say "no." Be careful about performing business functions that "don't cost anything." Put a dollar value on your time. Outsource. It will cost you less in the long run.

3. Take action. Talking and thinking about doing things that will grow your business are necessary. Writing them down and making them happen is even better. Identify the critical steps you must take now to get closer to the freedom you seek.