stress

While many business owners are passionate about what they do, they may eventually reach a point of overwork, stress, and burnout.

Burnout is not a diagnosable medical condition and is classified as an occupational phenomenon by the World Health Organization (WHO). They have even outlined the characteristics of burnout as:

• A reduction in professional efficiency,
• An increase in negative feelings like cynicism in relation to one’s job,
• A lack of energy and exhaustion.

If left unaddressed, burnout can negatively impact an individual’s mental well-being and affect a business’s ability to operate at its best. As a small business owner, it’s important to take a step back from work in order for your business to operate efficiently in the long run.

Read on for tips on avoiding burnout and taking care of your mental health.

1. Take a Break

Taking regular breaks is not a waste of time, despite popular belief. In fact, it’s been found to improve productivity and overall performance. You should also indulge in activities close to the heart, whether catching up with a friend or starting a hobby.

Also, ensure to plan holidays and vacations. This means refraining from official communication unless it’s an emergency.

2. Learn to Identify and Deal With Stress

Stress is one of the primary reasons many small business owners experience burnout, so it’s necessary to nip it in the bud.

The symptoms and signs of stress at work can be physical, psychological, and behavioral. Make sure to identify what triggers stress and work on ways to manage it. Keeping it at bay can boost productivity at work and improve your mental wellbeing.

3. Stay Organised at Work

Not having things organized and in place can leave business owners in no man’s land. If you’re not sure where to find work-related files and folders or a structured workday, it can lead to distraction and more stress.

4. Make a Checklist

If you find that you constantly have a lot on your plate, consider making a checklist of all the tasks and activities that need to be done. You can also add notes, prioritize by deadlines, and mark completed tasks. This will help you stay organized and on top of things.

5. Set Reminders

Despite having a checklist of all the things you need to do, some tasks and activities could remain incomplete. However, setting reminders will help you ensure tasks are completed and on time.

6. Take a Power Nap

Avoiding burnout is essential to the success of a business. For a small business to operate and function productively, it is vital for its owner to remain both mentally and physically healthy.

Research has shown that including power naps in your day can lead to many benefits, including an increase in productivity.

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