Being a female entrepreneur is a challenging feat. When my son was three, I decided to start my first business. And I felt like I had suddenly gone from the frying pan to the fire. In my head, I was going to be able to spend time with my son and work here and there, but the reality is I felt a tremendous amount of guilt. I came home to care for my child, who required breathing treatments every 2 hours round the clock, so it felt like I would give him a breathing treatment, set him up to play, and then try to work on my business. So I had two modes, taking care of my son or working with a bit of sleep in between.
Between juggling multiple roles, deadlines, business decisions, and personal life issues, I put self-care on the back burner. However, I learned that self-care is essential to maintain physical and mental health and allows you to perform the best in your business. If you are a female entrepreneur struggling to fit self-care into your schedule, here are some simple and practical steps that burnout required me to take:
1. Prioritizing your sleep:
Getting enough sleep is essential for good health and well-being. It's easy to burn the midnight oil as a business owner, but paying attention to your rest can lead to burnout, poor decision-making, and increased stress levels. Instead, set a regular bedtime and wake-up time and stick to it as best as possible. Block off time in the evening to wind down, disconnect from technology, and relax.
2. Incorporating exercise into your routine:
Exercise has numerous health benefits, including reducing stress, increasing energy, and improving mood. So incorporate physical activity into your daily routine. It can be as simple as a 30-minute walk outside, or you can take up a more intense form of exercise if that's your preference. The key is consistency.
3. Eating nutritious foods:
Entrepreneurs are often strapped for time, and it takes a lot of work to grab something quick and unhealthy to eat. However, a balanced and nutritious diet fuels the body and brain, keeping you energized and focused. Ensure you include plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein, and stay hydrated with plenty of water.
4. Unplugging:
As entrepreneurs, it's easy to be "always on" and feel you need to be accessible 24/7. However, taking the time to unplug can do wonders for your mental health. Set boundaries for when you'll check emails and messages and stick to them. Turn off all technology at least one hour before bedtime to promote better sleep, and set aside time throughout the day to take breaks, relax, and recharge.
5. Connecting with others:
Being an entrepreneur can be isolating, and getting caught up in your thoughts and work is easy. However, it's essential to connect with others and build social support. Schedule time with friends, family, and colleagues, and join a networking group or attend events to meet new people.
6. Taking regular breaks:
Entrepreneurship can be a never-ending work cycle, but taking frequent breaks is critical to maintaining focus, productivity, and creativity. Take daily breaks to stretch, move around, and clear your mind. It's also essential to take time off, whether a full day or a few hours, to recharge and prevent burnout.
Remember, as a female entrepreneur, caring for yourself is crucial to your business's success. When I started incorporating these simple, practical steps into my daily routine, my physical and mental health improved, allowing me to perform at my best. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it's necessary for a healthy work-life balance. By prioritizing self-care, you'll benefit yourself and everyone around you, including your business.
