Running a business can quickly consume most of your time. If you're not careful, you'll put necessary self-care activities on the back burner to the point you're exhausted and unable to carry on. Instead of running yourself ragged with endless duties, inject these self-care recommendations from the Odessa Chamber of Commerce into your schedule and regain some joy in your life.
Make Time for Hobbies
Recent studies demonstrate that hobbies cause a notable decrease in cortisol levels, a significant bodily marker of stress. You don't have to be an expert artist to enjoy a creative session and boost your physical well-being and mental health. The effects are particularly beneficial when participating in groups and forming social connections. Enjoy healthy hobbies such as:
Reading a book
Gardening
Cooking
Scrapbooking
Learning a new language
Take a Spa Day
If you can't get away to enjoy a retreat, create a DIY spa day at home. Stage the evening with fresh towels and a robe. Get the family and pets out of the house so you can focus on yourself. Design a soothing playlist and light candles for relaxing illumination and aromas. Soak in the bath or shower with refreshing natural cleansers and moisturizers. After pampering yourself, relax in bed with a book for a peaceful night's sleep.
Search for Shortcuts and Timesavers
Take back your time with productivity tools for your business. Electronic signature software helps you close deals and get paid faster. Communication apps keep in touch with team members around the world in an instant instead of sending an email for everything.
When discussing larger projects using a large PDF file with multiple images, use a free PDF editor tool to make notations, highlights, and drawings. You will avoid having to spell out details in lengthy emails and avoid endless dialogs that delay action.
Dress for Success
White House Black Market reports that fashion psychology has proven that what you wear can affect how you feel. If you work primarily at home, dress in a way to boost your mood and confidence. Wearing specific attire has been shown to spark fresh ideas, aid your focus, and help you become a better negotiator. Set alerts for clearance deals on your favorite sites and take an afternoon to buy yourself a new outfit from time to time.
Get Organized
Don't let clutter pile up and rob you of your peace and joy. Less is more when it comes to mental wellness. Schedule time daily to declutter your home and office. Do a deeper cleaning every season and consider redecorating or reorganizing things to keep your mind and emotions at their peak.
Create a Business Entity
Caring for your business can be self-care since protective steps can relieve worries about the unknown. Forming an LLC gives you limited liability, less paperwork, increased flexibility, and tax advantages. The process of filing for an LLC in Texas doesn't have to be expensive. Instead of hiring an attorney, use a formation service or file on your own. Be sure you follow your state's rules for formation since regulations differ. Be aware that right now, you can file your LLC for free with ZenBusiness; all you’re required to pay are legally-mandated fees to the state.
Keep a Journal
Journaling is one of the best ways to get in touch with your feelings and identify sources of stress and anxiety. If you struggle to find things to write about, a guided journal can prompt you and get the ball rolling.
Refresh and Reduce Stress
Self-care doesn't have to be elaborate. Create the time to do things you love and help you to feel good inside and out so that you can perform at your peak in your business and personal life. And take steps with your business to make it more efficient, like registering as an LLC and using timesaving tools. Together, these efforts will help you feel refreshed and ready to take on the entrepreneurial world each day.
Chamber of Commerce