(Photo credit: Pexels)
By Amy Collett from Bizwell.org
As an entrepreneur, it can feel as though there are no hours left in the day for proper self-care. Between managing your workload, fielding client inquiries, attracting new clients, and everything else, work can quickly become all-consuming. However, to be the best in your field, something has to give. Giving yourself the permission to take adequate breaks to care for your well-being and mental health is essential. In fact, feeling less stressed on a daily basis can boost your mood and creativity, which can help take your business to new heights.
Delegate and outsource as much as possible
Perhaps one of the most powerful self-care strategies that any entrepreneur can use is to delegate and outsource as much as possible. This move can directly and indirectly eliminate stress. By taking tasks off of your plate (especially those you do not find enjoyable), you’ll not only feel the relief of not having to perform them, but you’ll have more time to practice self-care.
If you are someone who feels like you need to do it all, you don’t. No entrepreneur can take on everything and realistically expect to succeed. There just aren’t enough hours in the day. Wise leaders are empowered with the ability to admit when they need help, and then ask for it.
Start by examining the day-to-day activities of your business to see where you can begin delegating/outsourcing. Common services to outsource include virtual assistant tasks, graphic design, bookkeeping, and social media management. You can also consider outsourcing tasks in your personal life. From cleaning to grocery delivery, you can literally add hours back into your weekly schedule.
Start practicing mindfulness
Research has shown that mindfulness is extraordinarily beneficial in a number of ways. By focusing on being present in each moment — without judgement of the experience — you can relieve stress, lower your blood pressure, enhance the quality of your sleep, and boost your resilience.
To get started, take anywhere from 5 to 10 minutes per day to complete a mindfulness meditation. These can be found on popular mindfulness apps. Whether at home or in the office, you can immediately reduce your stress levels, and improve your health over the long-term.
Make changes to the structure of your business
Although it sounds a bit unusual, making changes to the structure of your business can ultimately help you relieve stress.
If you’ve been worried about how much liability you personally have with your company, there is a quick and easy way to solve this concern: form an LLC. Not only can forming an LLC be good for business, but it can also relieve stress as well, as you’ll have limited liability, tax advantages, less paperwork, and increased flexibility. This one move could save you countless hours of worrying, and significantly improve your overall well-being.
If you do choose to pursue the formation of an LLC, you can avoid hefty lawyer fees by filing yourself — or by using a formation service. Because each state has different regulations around forming an LLC, check the rules in your state before moving ahead.
Support your mental health
Above and beyond anything else, be an advocate for your mental health. Whether you face anxiety, depression, or any other mental health condition, your business cannot grow if you do not take care of yourself first. Making therapy appointments, going to the doctor to get medication, and taking time for yourself are never signs of weakness. Instead, exceptional leaders aren’t afraid to admit that they are human, and that they need care to thrive.
Although it can be a challenge, scheduling regular self-care into your day is of the utmost importance for your health — and for the health of your business. It is only when you feel your best that you’ll be able to perform at your peak.