Stress Relief for Entrepreneurs

You’re an entrepreneur. Every day, you hit the ground running, but you find yourself burning out. It never seems like there are enough hours in the day. It’s easy to get caught up in your clients needs and forget your own. And often, you find yourself spending more time stressing than pursuing your passion.

Does this sound familiar?

Here are some tips to reduce stress in your entrepreneurial journey.

Track Your Stressors

According to the American Psychological Association, it can be beneficial to track your stressors. Note the situations that cause you stress throughout the day, as well as your response. This can help you notice patterns in your own behavior, and help you find the most effective way to deescalate stressful situations.

Establish Boundaries

Creating boundaries can help provide a healthy work-life balance. Take some time to set a schedule for yourself. Allow yourself some free time – maybe even time away from your phone, computer, and email. As small business owners and entrepreneur, it may feel like you are always on call. Making sure you have boundaries in place, and time to relax can make a huge difference in your mental health.

Prioritize and Organize

Take time at the beginning of the week, or even the beginning of each day, to prioritize and organize. Set small goals for yourself, establish clear timelines, and keep your calendar up to date. When you have a schedule, it is much easier to stay on track.

This is where prioritization is key. Sometimes, things come up that weren’t part of your schedule or plan. Learning to prioritize can help you see what is truly important and what can wait until later.

Learning the skills of organization, scheduling, and prioritization can eliminate a lot of stress and prepare you for the chaos of an entrepreneurial lifestyle.

Practice Mindfulness

According to an article with Harvard Health Publishing, practicing mindfulness can help you cope with stress at work. Placing yourself in the present moment, and opening your mind to all possibilities can help you connect with yourself and the world around you. It can help you let go of your stressors and find some moments of peace during a hectic day.

Try using a mindfulness app, practicing guided meditation, performing deep breathing exercises, or even practicing yoga.

Take Care of Your Physical Health

Eat a healthy diet and get enough sleep. These may seem like foreign concepts to a small business owner. Taking the time to get 7 to 8 hours of sleep each night can actually increase your productivity, so you can accomplish more.

You’ll be at your best when you’re properly fueling your body with fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Keeping simple, nutritious snacks near by can keep you fueled throughout the day, and prevent you from reaching for that candy bar in a moment of crisis.

Entrepreneurs and small business owners often have hectic lives. Set yourself up for success by staying organized, making time for yourself, and taking care of your body. It can make a world of difference