Avoiding Burnout in Your Small Business
A Home Business Article Contributed by Barbara Gibson
Small Business Stamina
There are many advantages to running a small business. Among them is the centralized decision-making structure, and the opportunity to be fully engaged in the process. The other side of that coin, though, is that small business owners must wear many hats. It can be as exhausting as it is exciting. When you burn the candle at both ends, it becomes quite easy to get burned out. You can take steps in advance of burn out to ensure that you are operating at peak performance, at least most of the time.
If you own a small business it is a good bet that you have chosen a venture that is important to you. Choosing a small business that feeds your spirit is an important consideration in avoiding burnout. Whether its the excitement you feel when you finally close the deal or the joy you feel when a room you are designing finally comes together you build satisfaction and stamina from your work. Still, managing even the most enjoyable and satisfying small business can lead to burnout.
Small Business Prioritizing
As impossible as this may sound, it is important to get adequate sleep each night. You are the most important asset to your small business. When you are tired you are not as productive or effective as you would be if fully rested. Although it may feel like you are getting more done by sleeping less, you are actually accomplishing less in more time. So, priority number one is you, sleep, exercise and eat. Next, you must prioritize daily plans as well as long and short-term goals.
If you have limited time to work with decide in advance what absolutely must be done. Delegate what is left, or work it in on a lighter day. One of the most important lessons any small business owner must learn is about his or her limitations. You can be a super small business person without being superman or superwoman.
Small Business Burnout
If you are burned out or fast on your way to getting there. Stop. There is something you can do to get back your verve. First, review your goals. Are you too scattered? Perhaps you need to narrow your focus, or hire additional staff. Next, review you calendar. Just as you plan meetings and other important appointments you must plan personal time for relaxation, joy and replenishment.
Abandon the idea that a vacation or break means you must leave town or have a lot of money. Sometimes an afternoon of hiking or an hour with a great book is all you need.
It is also helpful to take a look at what you are doing each day. If you find that most of your day is devoted to drudgery or menial tasks that might be farmed out, develop a plan immediately to do more of the work that charges your batteries. Its true that running a small business can require much more of you than an office job, but the rewards can be great. To maximize these rewards, place as much emphasis on your self-care plan as you do on your business plan. Each is ultimately dependant upon the other.
