Let’s face it my friends. Being a small business owner can feel like running a marathon every single day.
You’re the boss, the bookkeeper, the marketer, and sometimes even the janitor.
It’s really easy to let your own needs slide when there’s just so much to do.
But here’s the thing: if you don’t take care of yourself, everything else suffers.
Self-care isn’t just about feeling good.
It’s about keeping yourself healthy, focused, and ready to tackle whatever comes your way.
When you’re at your best, your business runs better too.
Why Taking Time for Self-Care is a Must for Small Business Owners
Imagine trying to run your business on an empty tank.
Exhaustion takes over, stress builds up, and even simple decisions feel overwhelming.
Sound familiar?
Now, imagine starting your day feeling refreshed and ready to go.
You’ve had a moment to breathe, move your body, or just enjoy a quiet coffee before diving into your tasks.
That’s the difference taking time for self-care makes.
It’s about giving yourself the energy and focus you need to not just survive, but thrive.
Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish—it’s smart.
When you’re healthy and balanced, you make better decisions, come up with creative solutions, and manage stress more easily.
It’s a win for you AND your business.
How to Make Self-Care Happen in a Busy Schedule
So look, I totally get it—your schedule is packed.
But taking time for self-care doesn’t have to mean hours at the spa or week-long retreats.
Although, how nice does THAT sound??
It’s the small, everyday actions that make the biggest difference.
Here are a few simple ideas:
Start your day on the right foot
The way that you start your morning totally sets the tone for your entire day.
So, maybe instead of rushing straight to your email or to-do list, take 10 minutes for yourself.
Stretch, journal, meditate, or just savor your coffee on the deck without any distractions.
This little moment of calm can make your whole day feel a whole lot more manageable.
MOVE!
Look, you are NOT a tree.
But exercise doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming.
Go for a walk, do a quick yoga session, or even do a dance-off in the kitchen to your favorite song.
Moving your body helps clear your mind, reduce stress, and boost your energy.
I’ll even give you bonus point if you take it outside! Especially the dance-off.
Imagine what the neighbors will think!
Take a break!
Raise your hand if you’ve ever worked straight through lunch.
Or worse, ate your lunch at your desk. Tsk tsk.
So, let’s break that habit, shall we?
Set an alarm every couple of hours to step away from your desk, even if it’s just for 5 minutes.
Stretch, grab a snack, another cup of coffee, or just stare at the sky.
Taking even a quick break all helps to refresh your brain and keep burnout at bay.
Fuel your body right
Your brain works best when your body is fueled with good stuff.
Swap the sugary snacks for some fruit, nuts, or veggies.
And don’t forget to hydrate—water is life, my friend.
Yes, even I will drink some water in there throughout the day!
Set boundaries like a boss, because, well…you ARE the boss!
Your inbox doesn’t need you at 11 p.m., but your brain does.
Create “off” hours and actually stick to them.
Use that time to hang out with loved ones, binge your favorite show, or just do nothing.
Your brain and your body will thank you!
Why taking time for self-care is the secret key for small business owners
Let’s connect the dots: when YOU are thriving, your business is thriving.
Why?
Productivity boost
Taking time for self-care and recharging your energy lets you tackle those tasks faster and with more focus.
Think of it like hitting the refresh button for your brain.
Creativity, baby!
When you’re not constantly “on,” your mind has room to breathe.
A lot people have shower ideas.
I text a client last week with a list of ideas that popped into my head while I was trying to melt my brain while that hot water was running over my tired head.
I just had to jump out and shoot that text off right away!
That’s when the best ideas show up—often out of nowhere.
Connections, connections, connections
Clients, employees, partners—they all feel the difference when you’re in a good headspace.
Have you ever noticed that when you are full of energy, so is everyone around you?
Your energy and positivity are contagious!
Business ownership is a marathon, not a sprint
Burnout doesn’t just affect you.
It can absolutely derail your entire business.
Taking time for self-care ensures that you’re in it for the entire marathon, not just the sprint.
I know what you’re thinking.
Self-care sounds great in theory.
But as a busy small business owner, you might be thinking, “That’s nice, but who has the time?”
The truth is, self-care doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated to make a big difference.
Even small, simple changes can help you recharge and stay at your best.
Self-care tips for the super busy (that’s you, my friends!)
If you’re short on time (and let’s face it, you are), here are some quick self-care ideas that pack a punch:
Take a power nap: Even 15 minutes can leave you feeling refreshed and ready to take on the business world.
Breathe It Out: Try box breathing—inhale for 4 counts, hold for 4, exhale for 4, and repeat.
Celebrate small wins: Write down one thing you accomplished today and give yourself credit.
Unplug Hour: Turn off your phone and enjoy a guilt-free hour of quiet time.
Look, we all know that running a small business is no easy feat, but taking time for yourself makes it a whole lot easier.
When you prioritize taking time for self-care, you’re not just helping yourself—you’re giving your business the best chance to succeed.
Remember, you can’t pour from an empty cup.
Start today—you’ve got this!
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