We define Solopreneurs as those individuals who do it all on their own. If you own and run your own business (or you’ve always dreamed of doing so), then you aren’t just a small business owner. You’re a solopreneur.
But being the sole operator of your own business many times means neglecting your personal health and well-being for the health and well-being of your business.
That might work for a while, but in the long term, it can mean a lot of trouble for both.
Self-care is important for everyone, especially for small business owners and those who are doing it all on their own. And while self-care can conjure up images of lying about in a spa while your business is put on hold, that’s not at all what self-care is about, although a day at a spa certainly can’t hurt.
Actually, self-care is defined as the practice of taking an active role in protecting one’s own well-being and happiness, in particular during periods of stress. And if there’s anything a solopreneur can relate to, it’s stress. Business News Daily says, “Stress can have negative effects emotionally, mentally, and physically, and failure to manage it as a business owner can even have detrimental consequences to your company.”
Where to Begin
If you’re not sure how well you’re coping with the stress of being a business owner, or if you need some guidance on how and where to start on your journey to better self-care and well-being, it’s a good idea to speak to a professional
You can start by exploring online therapy options. Online therapy is secure, private, and less of a commitment than in-person therapy. When you choose to see an online therapist, you’ll have a wider variety of licensed professionals to choose from, save time on travel, and pay less for mental health care. Many therapists also offer quick free consultations to ensure you find the right match.
Simplifying Your Business
Consider forming your business as an LLC. Not only can forming an LLC be good for business, but it can relieve stress as well, as you’ll have limited liability, tax advantages, less paperwork, and increased flexibility. You can avoid hefty lawyer fees by filing yourself or by using a formation service. States have different regulations around forming an LLC, so check the rules in your state before moving ahead.
If you’re stressing about getting paid on time for your services, switch to online invoicing where customers can pay balances online with the click of a button, and you can easily track where the invoice is in the queue from anywhere. An online invoice generator allows you to choose from pre-made templates to create customized invoices that include text, photos, your logo, and more. Look for an invoice generator that also allows you to download your invoice in your preferred format.
Good, Everyday Practices
Exercise like getting in your 10,000 steps a day or practicing relaxation programs like Yoga and Tai Chi can be scheduled into just 30 to 60 minutes out of your day. Learn to meditate or find a relaxing hobby that’s as far away from your business as it can be. Anything that can take your mind off of work for an hour will help you reset and recharge.
Getting enough sleep is critical for your physical health, mental well-being, and productivity. To get enough sleep, it’s important to set a schedule, like going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Create a bedtime routine that would give you enough time for relaxation and remember to limit your screen time before bed, usually turning off all your electronics one hour before bedtime.
A tired, worn-out, burned-out solopreneur is a recipe for personal and business disaster. Taking care of yourself can be one of the most important investments you’ll make.
We hope you agree.
And if you want to follow on our solopreneur journey, make sure to join the email list here!
