When was the last time you had fun with your family or friends? Or how much time do you allocate for yourself every day? Whatever it is, I bet it is not enough. Like most entrepreneurs, you may be very dedicated to working hard for the growth of your business. But little do you know your business is already taking over your life. Recognise the indicators before it’s too late.
How You Can Tell Your Business Is Running You
Symptoms of Stress
- Headache
- Low energy
- Body pains
- Rapid heartbeat
- Tense muscles
- Upset stomach
Physical symptoms of stress are the first sign that your body is reacting in such a way that is no longer healthy. The symptoms of stress can give you a hint that something is not right. Work stress, which is common to most people, can be life-threatening if not taken care of properly, and immediately. Make sure you also allow yourself time for you. An effective thought leader is someone who’s able to manage both their work and life.
Long Work Hours
Starting a new business may cause you to work long hours. It’s normal. But once you do it continually, it will become a habit which will lead to an unhealthy practice. Working for a period that is longer than usual reduces productivity. It does the opposite of what you are aspiring for. It may seem like a good idea at first, but chances are it will only work for a short period. Before you know it, you already find yourself in a trap which is hard for you to get out of. Always remember that there is life outside of work. And one way of freeing yourself some workload is by consulting and getting help from the right individuals. Hiring an online business manager, for example, may free some of your time.
Protect your time while you protect your business.
Change in Emotion and Behaviour
Once you experience pressure from business, you will also start to feel out of balance. When suffering for a prolonged period, emotional pressure can lead to chronic stress. A change in behaviour is a good indicator that something might be getting out of control. You become moody, frustrated or easily agitated. When your business demands a lot from you, you feel overwhelmed. You find it difficult to quiet your mind or even to relax. You start to avoid others, and you feel bad about yourself. So when your business begins to take over your life, the first thing to do is to slow down. Ask help. There are people out there who can help you get your life back, so you can concentrate on making more money. Good leadership requires a sound body and mind.
It’s No Longer Fun
When you always find yourself in the office, or when you’re running to and fro but still dealing with work, then it’s time for you to stop. Go out. Spend some time with friends. Go for a walk. Get some sun or do what I did, get on my bike. Have something to look forward to outside your business. Outsourcing is one way of gaining the freedom you need in your business. An online business manager will help you work things out and free up your time. Once you know how to outsource, you will find the right balance and be a much more effective entrepreneur.
Your Next Steps
By having a good mix of work-life balance, you can benefit more, and get all that you want both from your life and business. As you make time for your business, also make time for yourself. Remember that in the end, investing in your business is as significant as investing in yourself.
What are you doing to stop your business from running you? Leave a comment in the section below
