Business owners are often prone to burnout. Their to-do list seemingly never ends, and they feel like they need to be everywhere and do everything. If you run your own business, you know that life can feel chaotic sometimes. Whether you have a team of people working with you or you work solo, it’s important to carve out time to take care of yourself. If you’re running on fumes, you’re not doing what’s best for your business.

Fortunately, there are many ways you can begin to cultivate a self-care practice, says journalist Julie Bawden-Davis. When you make time for self-care, you’ll gain the energy and objectivity to examine your business and determine how to keep moving forward.

Wondering how you can possibly find the time for self-care? Read on. In this issue of Promotional Consultant Today, we outline Bawden-Davis’ easy self-care tactics for business owners—or really anyone who is feeling overwhelmed.

1. Step away. When your business feels out of control, your first instinct may be to double down on your work. However, overworking isn’t the best solution. You may love what you do but remember that your business isn’t your whole identity. Think about other things that you enjoy and make time for them. Whether you enjoy hiking, baking, painting or some other pursuit, be sure to prioritize these interests. When you step away from work and enjoy other activities, you can come back refreshed.

2. Pay attention to your physical health. Stress can take a toll on your body. If your business feels chaotic, it’s important to manage your stress. You can do this by getting adequate rest and eating well regularly, says Bawden-Davis. Replenishing your body with sleep and healthy food will keep your mind alert and focused, she adds.

3. Get moving. Exercise is another often-overlooked way to manage stress when you’re feeling overwhelmed. Bawden-Davis points out that moving the body will help you handle rough days at work. You don’t have to do the same kind of exercise, either. Try activities you don’t normally do. For example, if you usually walk around your block, try an online yoga class or go for a spin on your bike.

4. Create time for reflection. You may feel like you don’t have to sit and contemplate your business, but reflection is a valuable way to combat the chaos. Bawden-Davis recommends creating a safe, quiet place to reflect. Maybe this means spending a few minutes in the morning as you sip your coffee to think about what is going well and what you want to do differently in your business.

5. Reach out to others. As a business owner, it can feel like all the pressure is on you. That’s why it helps to connect with friends, family members or other business owners. Sometimes just talking through your challenges with other people will help you see things from a new perspective.

Running your own business can be incredibly rewarding, but also challenging at times. If you feel hectic trying to do it all, try the tips above. From prioritizing your physical health to building in time for reflection, there are many ways to care for yourself so you can show up in the best way for your business.

Compiled by Audrey Sellers

Source: Julie Bawden-Davis is a journalist and blogger who specializes in business and personal finance. She has written 12 books and more than 3,000 articles.