As a small business owner, it is difficult to find some time for yourself. Often times, we find putting ourselves in last place after our business, family and friends. That is an easy way to feel burnt out and frazzled which will not make you the business owner you want to be. Practicing self care is important for your mind, body, relationships and business. Below are some tips to help guide you, but keep in mind that self care looks different for everyone and takes trial and error and practice. The summer months are a perfect time for you to try out what will work for you.
- Sleep: When we are stressed, sleep is hard to come by. Getting at least 7-8 hours of sleep is crucial for your well-being. An article from the Harvard Business Review states, “A deficit in sleep leads to deficits in work performance.” The article goes on to say that when you cut back on sleep, your REM sleep suffers which makes concentrating on tasks difficult and multi-tasking almost impossible. For more information on the importance of sleep, check out the American Sleep Association.
- Meditation: Whether you pray, meditate or just want some alone time, this is an important part of your day. Meditation is proven to reduce stress, control anxiety, promotes emotional health, enhances self-awareness, lengthens your attention span, and improves sleep. Studies have shown it may also decrease blood pressure, helps control pain, can generate kindness, and may reduce age-related memory loss.
- Exercise: Being active has been shown to have many health benefits, both physically and mentally. It may even help you live longer. Healthline explains that “It can make you feel happier because it produces changes in the parts of the brain that regulate stress and anxiety. It can also increase brain sensitivity for the hormones serotonin and norepinephrine, which relieve feelings of depression.”
- Starting a fun hobby or activity: Whether it’s a yoga class, work out class, golfing, swimming, crafting, or gardening, if it is a hobby that helps reduce your stress and allows you to “unplug” from the real world, do it! Having a hobby encourages you to take a break from your normal stress of life while also providing a structure to your schedule.
- Journaling: Journaling everyday or even once a week can help relieve stress. It can enhance your sense of well-being, boost your mood, reduce stress and anxiety, improve your memory and help you focus.
- Medical care: Been holding off on seeing your doctor for something? Book that appointment! Self care is important for the mind and soul but your body is what gets you to work everyday and helps your clients. Make sure it is running on all engines properly!
- Pampering: As beauticians and hair stylists, you are used to doing the pampering for your clients, but remember it is important to treat yourself every once in a while too! Get the massage, manicure, hair appointment , or eyelash appointment booked and make yourself a priority!