Being a business owner can be an incredibly demanding and taxing endeavor. There is never enough time in the day for all the tasks that must be completed, and it can often feel like you are spinning your wheels to keep up with what needs to be done. Furthermore, to grow a successful business, there is always more that could be done. Business owners must constantly push themselves and their businesses forward or risk stagnating.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, owners of small businesses work an average of 52 hours per week. This is significantly higher than the standard workweek at most other jobs. The same report states that nearly half of all small business owners work over 60 hours weekly, while over a quarter work over 70 hours weekly! Furthermore, the US Small Business Administration reports that small business owners will spend around 80% of their time on tasks related to running their company instead of focusing on growth opportunities and strategies. This statistic further highlights how much time must be devoted to running a successful business compared to other occupations.
As a result, you might want to cherish whatever personal time you have to clear your head. You can do this at home, with these activities being the best strategies:
Rest
To the average business owner, rest is nearly an impossible task. When you’re running a business, there is always something that needs to get done. Therefore, rest can seem like an indulgence or luxury you do not have the time to get. However, rest is essential for keeping your cognitive performance sharp and preventing burnout from happening. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep each night and take short power naps during the day to give yourself maximum benefit from resting.
If you think your weekdays do not allow you to rest, try to dedicate a day or two for yourself during the weekend. This can work wonders when it comes to giving your brain and body a much-needed break from all your business-related duties and tasks.
Physical Activity
Physical activity is another great way to clear your head at home. Exercise helps you stay fit and healthy, but it also has incredible psychological benefits, such as relieving stress and improving mood. Research shows that exercise increases the production of endorphins, which can positively uplift your mental health.
To make the most out of physical activity, you should consider engaging in enjoyable activities. This way, you’ll be more motivated to spend time exercising, and it will be less likely to feel like a chore or burden. Since you are busy with business, here are a few short activities you can build a habit of creating for yourself:
Working out
An hour or two at the fitness center or the home gym can be a great way to get your heart pumping and clear your head.
Meditative exercises
Yoga, breathing exercises, and tai chi are excellent methods of releasing stress and calming your mind. They can also help you stay focused when you have to switch back to business duties.
Spending time outdoors
Nature has a healing effect on the soul – take some time to enjoy the natural world. Walk through a park or go hiking in nature reserves nearby if possible. This will give you the necessary dose of fresh air and tranquility after a long day’s work running your business.
Sports with friends
Physical activity does not have to be a solo activity. Create a routine with friends where you can play sports or other activities that you all enjoy together. This way, you get the physical and mental benefits of exercise while having a great time with your friends.
Mental Exercises
Running a business can be challenging mentally as well. Your mind has to be constantly on the go and ready for any task that comes your way. To ensure it’s always at its best performance, set some time aside each day to engage in mental exercises. This can include reading challenging books, playing brain games such as chess or Sudoku, or doing puzzles.
These activities can help you clear your head while giving your mind a workout – two birds with one stone! The daily newspaper or monthly magazine usually has crossword puzzles, making it easy to find something to challenge your brain. If you want to make it a routine, you can subscribe to a company that provides “Sudoku to my door” services. It will be a great way to have an enjoyable and rewarding daily challenge.
Final Thoughts
By now, you have probably realized that being a business owner does not have to mean sacrificing all your time. You can use the hours outside of work and clear your head for the tasks ahead.