As a busy entrepreneur, you likely feel there’s simply not enough time in a day. Running a company can be all-consuming, and for many business owners, work never seems to stop even when you’ve technically clocked out. A recent study indicates that small business owners struggle to leave work issues at work and typically spend an average of eight hours per week just worrying about their enterprises in addition to working time.
Given that information, it’s not surprising that so many business owners tend to shortchange themselves when it comes to self-care. It is understandable you want your venture to succeed, and you’re willing to make sacrifices to ensure that success. However, by neglecting to take care of yourself, you may be doing your enterprise more harm than good. The Honey DARE invites you to read on to learn how taking time out for self-care can give your business a boost.
1. Physical Activity Increases Productivity
Sure, the last thing you want to do is try to find time in your schedule to exercise. However, research consistently confirms incorporating physical activity into your routine reduces fatigue and raises overall energy levels. Exercising has also been shown to increase concentration and improve productivity. So, while working out takes time, the benefits for you and your business typically result in a substantial return on the investment.
You don’t need to hit the gym for hours each day to get these rewards. It only takes about 30 minutes per day, five days a week, to maximize these perks. Any kind of physical activity counts, from running or walking to dancing or shooting hoops, so choose an activity you enjoy. Be sure to bolster your physical activity by eating healthy foods, stocking your home and office fridges with plenty of filtered water, and watching your portion sizes. Remember, a healthy mindset at home and in life, ultimately extends to work.
2. Conscious Relaxation Enhances Cognitive Function
Many high-level CEOs make time to think, plan and clear their heads a priority in their daily routines. Conscious relaxation techniques, such as meditation, yoga, visualization, and mindful breathing, can elevate mood, reduce stress and frustration, increase confidence, and improve problem-solving ability.
With a clear mind, you’re more likely to pick up on patterns and understand causal connections that might otherwise get lost as you focus on the day-to-day aspects of running a company. As a result, you may be able to reach solutions and develop strategies to dramatically improve your business.
3. Streamlining Your Business Improves Efficiency
You’ve heard the advice to work smarter, not harder, and the cliché is popular for a reason. Smart entrepreneurs simplify their business procedures to improve work-life balance and create time to focus on self-care. Try these tips to make your company more efficient:
- Delegate time-consuming tasks. Don’t waste valuable time struggling with payroll or trying to handle your taxes. Outsourcing these duties is well worth the investment.
- Create a “doing business as” name. A DBA name often makes it simpler to branch out into new areas by allowing your company to sell and market goods and services under a different name. It can also alleviate the headache of trying to find an available domain name. Be sure to follow your state’s requirements for your fictitious name registration.
- Utilize technology. Take advantage of software platforms and mobile apps that allow you to automate as many tasks as possible.
If you’ve been putting off self-care to spend more time on your business, rethinking your priorities could substantially pay off. You are, after all, your business’s most valuable asset. Regular self-care benefits you and your company.