5 Self-Care Tips for Busy Entrepreneurs: Some May Surprise You
Are you a busy entrepreneur? Too busy for self-care? Well, you’re making a big mistake! Because self-care isn’t a luxury — it’s a necessity, especially when you’re trying to hustle and turn your business into a success. Here are some tips from the Stuck in the Middle podcast to help you fit more self-care into your already hectic schedule.
Set Up an LLC
Wait, wait — hear us out on this one! While setting up a Colorado LLC may not seem like self-care, you’ll think otherwise come tax time. That’s because operating under an LLC allows entrepreneurs to take advantage of tax credits that can save money on their business and personal taxes. Paying fewer taxes = less stress.
You can even save yourself the hassle of dealing with a lawyer by filling out forms online. Each state has its own set of rules, including Colorado. Look into these before you proceed. Then you will also have less paperwork, fewer costs, and more flexibility to look forward to.
Hire a Tax Pro
While we’re on the topic of taxes, let’s talk about the stress-relieving benefits of having an accountant prepare your next return. We get it — doing your own taxes can save some money. If, however, you make a mistake, you could end up paying a fortune in penalties — not to mention that you may have to deal with a painful IRS audit.
An experienced pro can do your taxes in no time. Plus, your accountant can help you maximize the benefits mentioned above. Then you can put the time you saved into more self-care.
Make Time for Exercise
Okay, now we’re going to get to some more basic self-care. It’s the type of self-care most people take for granted, but you need it in order to thrive as an entrepreneur. This includes regular physical activity. Think you don’t have time to workout? Here’s why you should think again.
The risks of leading a sedentary lifestyle can be severe. You’re more likely to develop heart disease, cancer, anxiety, and depression — all of which can put a real damper on your career as an entrepreneur. Not to mention these conditions can shorten your life.
Now for some good news: there are ways that even the busiest entrepreneurs stay active and fit. If you normally take an hour-long lunch break to eat or catch up with clients (that’s not a break, by the way), try using a half-hour of this time to work out. You could also take shorter breaks from your desk for jumping jacks, push-ups, or a brisk walk.
Stop Surviving on Fast Food
Just like with exercise, many entrepreneurs feel like they don’t have the time to eat healthy. That’s why you may be so tempted to hit the drive-thru or rely on processed foods. While these options may be more convenient, they aren’t doing your health or your focus any favors.
As mentioned in the Entrepreneur article linked above, proper nutrition is the key to preserving your energy levels, focus, immune system, and even how well you sleep. This is why you need to make time for healthy meals. If your schedule is super packed, you could meal-prep or you could look into meal delivery services to have fresh foods shipped right to your door.
Get Plenty of Good Sleep
If you improve your diet and fitness routines, you’re likely to sleep better. Of course, if you tend to check emails in bed you could be sabotaging those benefits. Look, we get it. Getting things done and communicating promptly is essential for success. But sometimes you need to shut off, shut your eyes, and get some real rest.
Keep your electronics out of your bedroom to improve the quality of your sleep. If it helps, pencil in those sleep hours! It may sound crazy, but scheduling sleep can make it a priority.
Self-care is not an option for entrepreneurs — period. You need it to thrive, and you really need it if you want to survive. Take better care of yourself and you can take better care of business.
For more passion, storytelling, and experience, check out the Stuck in the Middle podcast and blog.
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