These days, technology keeps us in touch with one another more than ever. Blackberries are so popular, you can see them laying on the docks at cottages ‘just in case’ as their owners attempt to ‘get away from it all’. Seriously though, with all of this technology following us around, how do we not become burned out? How can we actually ‘get away from it all’? In many business situations, people don’t feel as though they can. Owning your own business is very busy and can be stressful. Losing out on a week can mean a major decline to some.
What we all must stop and realize however, is that if we are burned out, our business won’t thrive. But how can you expect clients to be happy if you’re not happy? After all, running your own business was supposed to make more time for yourself and your family, correct? Below are ten ways to help you steer away from total burn out and hopefully helpful tips to keep your business and you stay emotionally afloat!
1. Laugh – Take a mini five minute break and watch that video of the guy falling headfirst into the lake you heard about on YouTube. Laughing can immediately raise your spirits and make you more positive.
2. Balance – Like the term “take time to smell the roses”, make sure you balance your work and home life. If you work at home, make a note to leave the home office at a certain time so you can spend time with your family or friends. Take time out for yourself. Your business shouldn’t take over all aspects of your life.
3. Take those vacation days – yes even you are entitled to vacation! Everyone is entitled to a vacation whether you own your business or not. We are not made to work on an ongoing basis. We all need some time out. When you do go away, also remember to leave your blackberry at home!!
4. Have a hobby – As I mentioned, work can’t be the only thing going on in your life. Just like you shouldn’t “put your eggs in one basket”, putting your life in one category will only make you miserable in the long run. Take a course, join a team (I for one have been playing Ultimate Frisbee!), just do something on the side that makes you happy.
5. Ask for help – I understand how hard this can be. When I’m given a project, I want to run with it – alone. Giving my tasks to other people is difficult, however it’s necessary for mental health. Sometimes you just can’t do it all alone. This is where a VA comes into the situation;) But seriously ask your business partner or assistant for the help you need.
6. Leave work at work – When you are done for the day, leave it there. Don’t go home and keep working. Especially if you have a family. Your family needs your attention just as much as your business does. There is a time and place for it all.
7. Shorten the commute – Commuting great distances day after day can have a grueling effect on your emotional stability. If you are commuting everyday consider telecommuting or finding a place closer to home.
8. Go out for lunch – Yes do go out! Don’t work nine hours straight without a break.
9. Make friends – You need someone to talk to and confide in. Of course if you are married, your ‘partner in crime’ will be this person, but at work make sure you socialize. It will immediately raise your spirits and relieve stress to know there is someone who understands your workload. If you work alone, be sure you have someone to call so you can get any issues off your chest.
10. Exercise – Exercising has been proven to relieve stress and depression. So go for a jog, hop on your bike or go to the gym!
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