When you follow your passions and create a business, it’s easy to believe that life will be easier and less stressful. Because, yes, being an entrepreneur means that you are in charge of how you spend your work time. Unfortunately, it isn’t always easy. There will be times when the sheer volume of tasks to tend can cause a lot of business stress. And when that happens, it’s so easy to keep pushing yourself until not only are you overwhelmed, but you’re on the edge of burnout.
It’s so important for your mental, emotional, and physical health to manage business stress in a way that’s healthy. Know that the reality of life – and owning a business – means there will always be challenges. So, while you can’t eliminate all your stressors, you can learn ways to manage your stress levels.
With that in mind, here are some of my go-to tactics to relieve the pressure, stay engaged in your business, and remember that you deserve a life that is loving and nourishing.
One – The First Thing to Do When Business Stress Feels Overwhelming is Take a break
No matter how much work you have to do, and no matter how tempted you are to stay rooted at your desk, know that taking a break could be the best thing you do. By taking time out to clear your head, have something to eat, and embark on a little exercise, you will be able to return to your desk feeling rested and refreshed, with a greater capacity to deal with any challenges that are part of your day.
When talking about taking a break, we aren’t only talking about those 15-30 minute intervals during your working day. You might also want to take a day off occasionally, or even longer, as despite the needs of your business, there may be times when your mind and body need a longer resting period to give you the capacity to cope. By following the next step, taking a longer break could be something you could realistically do if you need time away from the office.
Two – Examine Your Workload and Stop Doing Unimportant Things
For most people, starting their own business came from a space of desiring more freedom. Yet, the reality is that you often find yourself working ALL the time. Not just late in the evenings, but on weekends as well.
Sometimes, the tasks we have on our plate aren’t always necessary. Or Important in the scheme of things. So, if you’re constantly feeling the pressure of your business stress, it’s time to take a step back. Do you REALLY need to do EVERYTHING?
This is critical, because you want your business to survive the long haul. And you really need it to support your life in a way that feels nourishing. Otherwise, you’re going to become frazzled, exhausted, and facing burnout. And let me tell you, darling, burnout is hard to recover from. Worried you might already be IN burnout mode? This article can clue you in if you have some of those common signs: https://millo.co/7-signs-youre-approaching-business-burnout.
Three – Look at Delegating Some Responsibilities
If there are tasks on your list that you must do, consider delegating some of your workload. While this may mean that you need to hire some employees. Or outsource tasks to an expert. Often, a professional, like an accountant or web design person, can do the work we struggle with more efficiently. This is a two-fold solution, by the way. It relieves some of the pressure of business stress. And benefits your business by allowing a professional to make your work shine more brightly.
If you’re concerned about manage staff, know that it doesn’t have to be too challenging. There are a lot of great apps and software that can help. Like accounting software such as Quick Books. OR a schedule maker – like this one I’ve tried: https://getsling.com/blog/work-schedule-maker/ .
Four – Talking About Your Business Stress Can Help
When your business stress becomes overwhelming. Or you know you’re on the edges of burnout. Don’t keep it inside! It will only fester and grow. That’s why, sometimes, it’s best for your both your mental and physical health to talk to someone about what’s going on.
So, pick up the phone and talk to somebody. You can hire a coach, reach out to a friend, or talk to a trusted family member. And consider, too, that you might need a business mentor. If you don’t have a mentor, here’s some great advice from Entrepreneur Magazine on finding one: https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/318024 .
One thing to know is that you don’t have to share all of the details of what’s causing your business stress. Sometimes, the answer lies in being able to simply connect with another human being. Don’t underestimate the value of friendly banter or a few comforting words to relieve the pressure. Then, you’ll be ready to return to work with a sense of buoyancy.
Five – Fuel Your Mind (and Heart) with Inspirational Wisdom
While the internet can be full of distractions, it can also be the source of great insight and practical tips for dealing with not only business stress, but your life. When you find an article that feels helpful, like this one, take a few moments and look at the other articles on the website – like how to recharge your mind, body, and soul.
When you are an entrepreneur, it helps to remember that you are not along in dealing with business stress.
And though we can overwork ourselves to the edges of burnout, you can learn to halt those feelings of overwhelm before it goes too far. Turning to the simplicity of these tips is the reminder that the quality of your life matters. So, whether you just need a break, to delegate some work, or read an informative article, there are ways to deal.
Because you, my darling, deserve to live a nourishing life. And have a business that supports that goal.
