Long, irregular hours and trying to do everything at once can lead to burnout sooner than you think. This, of course, can have a negative effect on your mental and physical health as well as the success of your business. Here are five strategies to help you to reduce your risk of burnout in 2019.
1. Stay organised
Keeping track of your goals and deadlines can help reduce unnecessary stress. You could start by writing all your current tasks down and prioritising them. The act of planning your workload can help you visualise how much time and effort each task is likely to take and make your days more efficient. This may make it easier to stay on top of things moving forward.
2. Find time for breaks
Once you are on top of your tasks, make sure you take time for yourself. One of the quickest ways to fast-track burnout is to grind through signs of stress. That’s why it’s important to listen to your body when it asks for rest, and recuperate. Set aside periods to relax and regroup, whether that’s by spending time with friends and family, going for walks, reading books, or meditating. Taking this time out will ultimately help you be more productive, ensuring you are refreshed and inspired when you return to work.
3. Transform your workspace
Your work environment can greatly influence your mental state. If your desk is messy and cluttered, it might become more difficult to think clearly. Turning your office into a pleasant and efficient space will help keep you focused and motivated while you work. Begin by clearing your desk and organising paper and stationery items. If you can, let in as much natural light as possible and spruce up your work space with plants, art, or photographs. This can help keep your mind stimulated.
4. Make use of the slow stretches
It’s important to remember that every business has its ups and downs. There will likely be some slower periods as well as busy ones. But instead of worrying, you can use these slow stretches to take stock of your progress, streamline your processes, and work on your strategies. If you feel stuck, don’t be afraid to ask your friends, family, or industry connections for help rather than trying to solve everything on your own.
Also, remember that saying ‘no’ to new business is always an option during busier periods. It’s better to turn down an inappropriate opportunity than stretch yourself too thinly and neglect other projects – and your well-being. In the end, it’s all about balancing your workload and having realistic expectations.
5. Celebrate small victories
It can be easy to get so caught up in your work that you ignore smaller and sometimes even bigger milestones. Taking a step back to celebrate your achievements will help you mark your growth, stay inspired, and remind yourself why you set off on this journey in the first place.