How to Care for Yourself so You Can Do Better in Business
If there’s one truth I can attest to in solopreneurship, it’s that solopreneurs constantly face uncertainty and a long list of unaccomplished goals. But if you don’t take control of your situation, the situation controls you. You need to thrive if you want to get business results. Thriving requires taking good care of yourself.
Here are small ways to practice self-care on a daily basis. Just pick a few to start with from the list below and notice how effective your mind and body can operate.
Identify your “non-negotiables.”
Ask yourself this essential question: What are the top things in your life that you would never compromise no matter how busy you are? These are your non-negotiables. They can be anything from a daily 20-minute exercise to a 5-minute breathing meditation to a weekend movie date with your spouse. Non-negotiables teach you discipline and commitment to happiness and well-being.
Resist the urge to check emails first thing in the morning.
Imagine how calmer your mornings could be if you quit the habit of checking emails as soon as you wake up! Many of us have this urgency addiction because we can’t wait to deal with an emergency that may have happened while we were away. Truth is, not everything in your emails are urgent. You’ll only end up with more stuff to do! Be more proactive and in control by setting a specific hour to check.
Maintain a healthy diet.
Do you eat the right stuff or do you just eat everything you fancy? Eating healthily is a huge driver of success, for it allows you to reap the full benefits of stuff that’s good for your body. The right nutrients will beat brain fog, supply you with more energy, and put you in a positive mood! Start small. For a start, you can switch to whole grain. Choose water over colored, sweetened drinks.
Take your dog for a walk.
If you have a dog, grab the opportunity to spend some time in nature by going on daily walks. Consider this a form of exercise for both you and your furry friend (you kill two birds with one stone). Not just that, it’s also a way to bring back your focus. People who get easily distracted report an improved concentration after immersing in an outdoor activity.
Celebrate your small daily wins.
Every step you take that leads to closer to where you want to be, even if it's a one percent progress, deserves a celebration. The idea is that you have to always find opportunities to feel good about yourself if you want to stay motivated. So how do you celebrate success that also involves self-care? Get a relaxing massage. Try a new haircut. Book a trip. Take the day off!
Surround yourself with all things motivational.
I like hanging framed success quotes on the wall. Any time of the day, I can look at them and be reminded of my potential. A few words can give you a lot of encouragement especially in times of stress and self-doubt. Why not hang quotes on your wall too? Or put together quotes in a notebook? Or get some inspirational quote magnets?
The only way to meet your self-care needs as a solopreneur is to recognize when you need them. Investing in your health and well-being helps you run a business that’ll love you back!