Memories from my childhood surfaced yesterday while I watched my granddaughters play a game of jacks. The game is usually played with a small rubber ball and metal jacks. I reminisced about the times my friends and I were all set for a game but we couldn't find the ball. But we didn't let that stop us. We would substitute one of the jacks for the ball. We'd throw a jack in the air, pick up the designated number of jacks and catch the "ball-jack" as it came down. What a feat! And fun too!

The game of balancing business and personal life can find you missing a ball or two. You've launched the business, and your solo operation has experienced modest success, and now you want more growth.

But much of your time is spent struggling with paperwork, phone calls, e-mail and more. At home, in addition to the many responsibilities inside the house, autumn is here and the leaves need raked, the bulbs need to be covered in preparation for winter, the kids are back in school and have a slew of activities that are calling for your attention. And that's only the beginning! You tell yourself the perfect solution is more hours in the day. In trying to do everything yourself, you're bound to tip the scales of balance. You want to play the game, but something is missing. What is missing is the ball -oops, I mean part-time help. For your sanity and your sense of self and balance, it's time to hire help, and quickly!

Many times we must look to what we have available and make it work. So start where you are. Write a list of the activities you are involved with and the people associated with those activities. You will find many talented people right under your nose -in your professional groups, your social clubs or hidden among your child's playmates.

Talented young mothers want a job that pays well and offers flexible hours.

High school students are thrilled to get experience and earn extra money. By offering them work, two things happen: Your work gets done and you help the student develop self-confidence and responsibility. Check out he regulations on hiring and managing teens. Call the Department of Labor at 202-693-4650 or visit its web site at www.dol.gov/esa/welcome.htm

Also, volunteer to speak to the entrepreneur's program at a local college or university. Professors look for active business people to lecture their students, and college students enjoy flexible part-time work that won't interfere with their studies. Remember to use the employment opportunity to wear your mentor's hat.

Your membership in business and professional organizations offers "real gems" - senior citizens and retirees. They have that "been there, done that" wisdom that can help you over rough spots. Many seniors want to "look out" for entrepreneurs, and they are good sounding boards when you are frustrated or need advice. Don't forget to seek out other entrepreneurs -for proposal writing, public relations, marketing, janitorial services and gardening -so you can save time.

Whatever you do, don't give up the game because you can't find the ball. Check out your surroundings for solutions.

Whether the game you're playing is in business or at home, you can find balance and enjoyment by creating your own ball.

Let the game begin!