Self-Care for Business Owners in 3 Easy Steps
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Self-Care for Business Owners in 3 Easy Steps
By Katie Conroy
When you’re running a business, it’s easy to let the work consume your life. Not making the time to care for your mind and body can be very harmful to your health, though, and impact your business negatively as a result. Instead of putting it off, embrace self-care today and incorporate some of these self-care ideas into your routine, presented below courtesy of Belladonna’s Books.
1. Exercise Regularly
Entrepreneurial life can be exhausting, so it may seem counterintuitive to try and add exercise to your already-packed schedule. Studies show, though, that consistent exercise makes people more energetic. Commit to starting an exercise routine, even if you begin slowly with small steps toward your goals. When planning your exercise, keep in mind that the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults get between 75 and 150 minutes of vigorous activity or 150 and 300 minutes of moderate physical activity each week.
Although implementing an exercise routine might seem unmanageable, choosing an activity you enjoy or alternating activities throughout the week can help make getting started more enjoyable. Picking activities you can do with your friends and family will also help to make the routine more sustainable. Pairing up with someone has been shown to improve the likelihood that exercise habits will be continued over time.
2. Prioritize Quality Sleep
Many people underestimate the importance of consistent and restful sleep and how a lack of sleep can seriously impact their quality of life. According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, sleep deficiency has been linked to heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, stroke and depression. The average adult needs a minimum of seven hours of uninterrupted sleep every night, and most Americans are not getting it. Entrepreneurs, especially those just starting out, are likely to sacrifice their own sleep for the demands of running their business.
It can also be difficult to establish good sleep habits in adulthood, but technology can help with a variety of sleep issues. If you have trouble settling down to sleep after a busy day of work, a device that guides you through breathing or meditation may be beneficial in getting your mind and body ready to rest. Speakers that allow you to listen to music wirelessly are good options to explore, as are white noise machines the generate soothing noises — and there are many affordable options on the market. If you find yourself waking up due to being too hot or too cold, consider a temperature-controlling cover that can keep you comfortable throughout the night.
3. Make Time for Yourself
Time is more precious than gold when running a business, and it may feel like you haven’t a moment to spare to devote to things like self-care. The importance of a little time to yourself doing something you enjoy shouldn’t be overlooked, though. Even if it’s simply carving out 10 minutes at night before bed to read the latest bestseller, or an afternoon to yourself each weekend exploring the city, it’s essential that you give yourself the time and space to restore yourself. Studies show those who make time for themselves benefit from improved mental health, boosted self-esteem and heightened emotional intelligence, all of which will help you be a better business owner.
Your business is important, but you can’t give it everything it needs long term if you aren’t addressing your own needs. Make a plan to give yourself the care you deserve. Your body, mind, and business will be glad you did.