Stress Relief Tips for Small Business Owners

A study of small business owners found they are more likely to feel the impact of stress and poor mental health than the general population. One of the main reasons? Small business owners are never truly “off the clock,” as the majority of them don’t – or can’t – separate home and work.

As the first quarter of 2018 comes to a close, it’s an ideal time to reevaluate and implement stress management techniques for the rest of the year. As a small business owner, it’s crucial to avoid burnout so you can keep boosting your business.

Change Your Opinion of Stress

We typically think of stress in a negative light, but our perceptions may not be accurate. During her popular TED Talk psychologist Kelly McGonigal discusses how to make stress your friend. She urges listeners to set their mentality to see stress in a positive light because it can actually help them perform better and connect with others.

A recent study also suggests a little bit of anxiety can actually help improve your memory.

Know What Stresses You Out

If you’re feeling more stressed than usual, Jared Lindzon recommends first figuring out what triggers your stress. From there, you can begin to discover the most effective methods for handling stress and in turn leverage stressful situations for more productive results. It’s not too late to start healthy stress management routines.

Implement Healthy Habits

Some of the most successful business people in the world all handle stress in their own unique way. Test out a few methods before settling on what works best for you.

1. Focus on the positives, even the smallest accomplishments.
2. Prioritize your schedule and delegate tasks when possible.
3. Eat right and avoid ‘comfort’ foods.
4. Get physical and exercise.
5. Meditate.

Time management, fatigue, sales, operations, money – all of these things can cause stress at some point for small business owners. Ultimately, it’s all about building resilience to stress and choosing stress management techniques that help you stay calmer and channel stressful energy in positive ways.