As if starting and running a successful business isn't challenging enough, sometimes life throws curveballs. Whether it be illness, an accident, world events, or caring for family, entrepreneurs must prioritize their health and well-being. These practices can also be expanded to form a well-being program to include the employees who keep your growing business afloat.
Your business and family depend on you. Here are mindful self-care practices for entrepreneurs when life feels overwhelming.
Individual Desk Practices
By setting aside small moments in your day for these daily practices, you'll show up better for your clients and employees. Use your phone's timer to make sure these practices stick.
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Work in a healthy environment. Invest in ergonomic office chairs and ensure that you're sitting with good posture, enjoying natural light, and stretching a few times during the day.
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Follow the 20-20-20 rule. Every 20 minutes, look at something that's 20 feet away for 20 seconds to reduce eye strain.
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Vary your physicality and environment. Get up and walk around 5 minutes within every hour or take breaks outside.
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Pre-plan healthy meals and eat them away from your desk, especially on those days when you feel like you don't have time for a break. Take 10-15 minutes, at least, to focus on your body's sustenance.
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Prepare for the next day. Set aside some time to straighten your desk and create a task list for the next day.
See also: How to Stay Positive in a Negative Situation
Practices for Working with Others
Colleagues and clients can help solidify your self-care practices or distract you from them. Try these tips to protect your wellness when working with others.
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Use creative problem-solving. When working through a challenge, use the opportunity to brainstorm, where no answer is a wrong answer. These creative exercises can be uplifting and positive experiences.
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Start fun traditions. A weekly event such as a happy hour or breakfast with the boss can be an activity that everyone looks forward to.
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Set boundaries with clients. When clients stay within your scope, you and your employees will feel happier about doing the work that's required.
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Enjoy walking meetings. Movement increases creativity and honesty. Plus it gives everyone a break from sitting at their desk all day.
Set Priorities and Limits
Instead of doing it all yourself, take the time to assess your limitations and what's important. That may mean it's time to hire someone to do that one part of your business that you loathe doing so you don't have to feel anxious about it. Perhaps it's time to outsource activities such as your bookkeeping, accounts receivable, or marketing so that you have the time to have dinner with your family or walk the dog before bed. The oxygen mask analogy applies to entrepreneurs too - you cannot take care of everything and everyone unless you take care of yourself first.
