(stress management – 5 minute read)
Hi Accounting fans, let’s talk about stress.
Stress comes from a lot of things. If you’re a small business owner, this is unfortunately part of the job. Heck, I can’t think of a single job (or activity) that doesn’t induce even just a little bit of stress! You can’t eliminate stress from life, but here are some tips that I use to manage stress in my life:
Self care is important for stress management
Have you ever looked at your work and felt ‘ugh, no more!’. That’s usually a good indicator that its time to take a break. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of running a small business, but it’s important to take care of yourself first. Make time for activities that help you relax and recharge, such as exercising, spending time with loved ones, or indulging in a hobby.
Don’t feel guilty for not doing work. You are allowed time to relax and pursue other interests instead of just chaining yourself to your business. Sit back, relax, watch a show or play a game – whatever suits you. You’ve earned it!
Stick to a routine for stress management
Admittedly this one is hard. But the payoff is quite big. Establishing a routine can help you stay organized and reduce the feeling of being overwhelmed. This can include setting aside specific times for tasks, taking breaks, and setting boundaries for when you’re “off the clock.”
Whip out your calendar and block out time for breaks in between your working hours. Set aside time for exercise, lunch, or even just watching shows and playing video games. Stick to that schedule and I promise you won’t feel overwhelmed!
Delegate the stress away
As a small business owner, it’s natural to want to be involved in every aspect of your business. However, it’s important to recognize when it’s time to delegate tasks to your team or hire additional staff. This can help alleviate some of the burden and allow you to focus on the tasks that truly need your attention.
Remember, no business ever became successful from the work of one individual alone. It takes a team to create a thriving business! Sometimes it’s better to make less money for yourself if it means that there is someone else who will take the burden off of you.
Getting support for stress management
It’s okay to admit that you can’t do it all on your own. Seeking support from mentors, fellow business owners, or a therapist can provide valuable perspective and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of being a small business owner.
No business owner is an island. I personally have found a lot of value in having a business coach AND a counsellor to help me through some tough times. A smart business owner knows when it is time to ask for help!
Manage stress, don’t let it manage you!
Stress is part and parcel of running a business. It helps keep you focused and motivates you to achieve your goals. Remember to stay disciplined and I’m sure you’ll be handling your stress like a pro in no time!