Running a small business sometimes feels more like a lifestyle than an occupation. It can influence your thoughts, decisions, and how you spend your time. And for all the joy it brings, sometimes, work may get in the way of your health. Entrepreneurs face higher levels of stress than other workers, and experiencing high levels of stress takes a toll on your mental and physical well-being.
Think of your habits and how you prioritize your wellness. Do you feel like your health falls by the wayside? Most of us can use help in this department! While it sometimes seems daunting to take on more tasks, these suggestions will help you implement positive changes in your work-life balance:
- Be mindful about your time:
Time is one of our greatest assets. When running a small business, time really is money. So how do you use it? Intentionally blocking off time to focus on work tasks versus personal needs can greatly benefit your health. Compartmentalizing and focusing clearly on tasks at hand can assure you spend time in a quality way. For example: if you need to accomplish a task, commit to fully working on that and minimizing outside distractions. When it comes time for your personal care, rest mindfully! Stay in the moment, try reducing thoughts about work, and feel grateful for the opportunity to enjoy the moment you’re in.
2. Lean on your social support system:
Support from friends and family can greatly reduce stress. Studies show that “The more social support a person receives, the less impact job stressors will have on that person.” Unwinding with loved ones and having a safe space to vent can take weight off your shoulders. Social benefits apply to the office as well; This CEO saw positive change when he involved his employees in his health journey. He emailed workouts, meditations, and recipes to his team, creating a solid support system for everyone.
3. Pay attention to your body’s cues:
This goes hand-in-hand with the first suggestion about mindfulness. Our bodies have ways of alerting us when something feels off, but stress from the outside world often dulls these messages so much we don’t notice them.
When you have hunger cues, make intentional food choices and savor every bite! When you feel exhausted and overwhelmed, turn off your computer and get the rest you need. When you feel stress, call a friend or spend time outdoors clearing your head. The human body is a super machine that can carry us through the highs and lows of life. Learning how to notice when the “maintenance lights” go on can help you deal with physical or mental problems before they become unbearable.
Taking care of your body and behaving like a warrior in pursuit of better health can vastly improve quality of life. When things get tough, though, make sure you and your employees have the absolute best in supportive coverage for your medical care. Apply for HealthChoice of Michigan’s small business program for the coverage you need!