Owning a small business can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also wear you out. You likely work long hours and constantly think about decisions and responsibilities. You may face financial pressure even when things are going well, and being responsible for not only your business, but also those you employ, can take a toll on your mental health. Burnout can build up through chronic stress, fatigue, and emotional exhaustion. It is important to find ways to keep it from overtaking your state of mind. Here are six tips for helping prevent burnout as a small business owner.
1. Set Boundaries
It is important to set boundaries when you own a business. You may find that you're “always on” by default with emails after dinner or weekend calls, but over time, this can affect your mental recovery and contribute to burnout. Set defined work hours and decide when your workday ends and your personal time begins. Then, follow the schedule as consistently as possible.
2. Don't Be Afraid to Delegate Tasks
When you own a business, you wear many hats, but delegate tasks to employees if you can. Trying to handle too many things at once can increase stress, so if you have people who are qualified to take on certain duties, let them do so. If training is needed, take care of that or consider hiring new employees or freelancers. Outsource tasks if needed. Identify which responsibilities you should focus on and determine whom to delegate the rest to. This may help create more time for higher-level planning and strategic thinking.
3. Make Time for Hobbies
During your off time, make room for hobbies. They can keep your mind stimulated and bring enjoyment outside of work.
"To maintain a healthy work-life balance, cultivate a rich, satisfying life outside of your job," says CO— contributor Rachel Barton.* "Find hobbies and interests entirely unrelated to your career without feeling the need to monetize them. For instance, if you work in finance, try something artsy. Not only will your activities bring you joy and boost your mood, but they can also strengthen your identity and sense of self outside of work, which can reduce your stress from the job."
4. Take Care of Yourself
Take care of yourself both mentally and physically. Be sure you're getting enough sleep and movement. Eat regular meals because eating inconsistently can contribute to stress and fatigue. Incorporate plenty of fruits and vegetables. Take walks, lift weights, or follow other regular exercise routines. Drink water throughout the day to stay hydrated. Meditate or practice mindfulness. Take time to focus on your breathing. Visit your doctor for routine wellness checkups. Remember, physical and mental wellness contribute to emotional resilience and may help reduce burnout.
5. Identify Stressors to Better Deal with Them
Burnout often comes with an abundance of stress. Determine the things that are causing the most strain and learn how to better handle them.
"There are probably certain things that you don't love about your job, so you probably procrastinate and put them off as long as you can," says Alyssa Gregory at The Balance.** "Then when you finally tackle them, they take longer and are much more painful than they need to be. Be able to identify what these
stressors are, so you can create a plan for getting them done and off your list
as quickly as possible."
6. Don't Measure Productivity by Hours Worked
Productivity does not have to mean working long hours. You may see it as dedication, but chronic overwork can lead to diminishing returns and mental exhaustion. Focus on outcomes rather than time spent working. Identify which tasks move the business forward and prioritize them. Try to work in ways that are more efficient rather than simply longer.
Burnout can happen to any small business owner, even when you are passionate about what you do. The key is to balance your work and personal life and know when to ease your own workload.
* https://www.uschamber.com/co/grow/thrive/daily-habits-to-prevent-burnout-for-entrepreneurs
** https://www.thebalancemoney.com/avoid-burnout-in-small-business-2951618
