Entrepreneurs and small business owners all have two things in common — passion and exhaustion. Without that devotion, you wouldn’t have gained success thus far, but this dedication to your work could result in burnout. 

It’s important to recognize that your constant exhaustion is not sustainable in the long term. It affects your business in many ways — from your creativity to your decision-making and productivity. When you aren’t at your best, your business isn’t either. While long hours and sleepless nights have fueled your progress so far, it's time for a shift in focus: Adding self-care as the foundation to support continued professional success.

Audit Your Habits

First, take an in-depth look at your typical day to become aware of your current habits. What do you usually eat for breakfast? Do you even eat breakfast? How frequently are you on your feet throughout the day? Are you sitting at a desk all day? If so, what does your seating arrangement look like? Awareness of the habits that keep you from a more healthful day is the first step toward positive modifications.

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Prioritize the Changes

Change is hard, so it may not be realistic to address all fatigue-causing habits at once. Start small and gradually adjust your routine. For example, make workspace changes that encourage more movement, such as incorporating some of the following:
 

• Sit less – Consider a standing desk, but incorporate it slowly. Research shows prolonged sitting is detrimental to health, but sustained standing can also have negative effects. So, when making a change like this, listen to your body, knowing it’s ok to do a little of both.
   
• Stretch – While at your standing desk, use a half-dome like this one for calf stretches throughout the day.  You can also add a balance board to your office space, hopping on for intermittent strengthening and a mental focus boost.
   
• Change positions – When seated, use a stability ball or a chair that encourages different positions, such as cross-legged, kneeling or squatting.
   
• Walk-and-talk – Some people find success with small walking treadmills that fit under standing desks. Or you can simply have one available in your office, so it is accessible for walking during phone calls or meetings, for example.
   

Start by incorporating movement into your schedule as it already exists. Once you’re moving more throughout your typical days, it will be easier to take the step toward bigger habit changes.

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Time Management for Self-Care

Entrepreneurs’ calendars are full, and many only do what’s scheduled. To add movement or exercise to your day, put it in your calendar to ensure it happens.

Schedule time for walks, gym visits and even grocery shopping and meal prepping. Blocking out time signals a commitment — and guarantees you have space reserved in your life to make your wellbeing a priority.

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Don’t Ignore Symptoms​

Entrepreneurs and small business owners don’t have time to get sick, so when they do, they often work through it. This can prolong symptoms in the long run, so it’s important to address any illness early. Membership associations, like the Southern Consumers Alliance (SCA), offer benefits such as access to telemedicine services, prescription savings and vision discounts. For example, SCA members can speak with registered nurses by phone at any time for help with health concerns. These resources are designed to support members in managing medical issues quickly and effectively when time is limited.

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Accountability Checks

Find ways to make you more likely to stay on track with your health and fitness. Perhaps you know other entrepreneurs or small business owners who also want to improve their health and focus. As a group, you can schedule walks, making everyone more likely to join. And studies show that feeling accountable to others helps individuals stick to their wellness goals.

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Attending group fitness classes or hiring a personal trainer are also great ways to make sure you continue to show up for yourself. 
 

It’s Possible to Make Change

Small, consistent changes help you be your best — both for yourself and your business. Remember, a healthier you means long-term business success. To learn more about SCA’s wellness benefits, visit southernconsumers.org.

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Articles in this newsletter are meant to be informative, enlightening and helpful to you. While all information contained herein is meant to be completely factual, it is always subject to change. Articles are not intended to provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Consult your doctor before starting any exercise program. Benefits may not be available in all membership levels. For more information or to upgrade your membership, please call 800.387.9027.