Three Things Entrepreneurs Can Do to Reduce Stress

Running your own business can be both rewarding and fun. But it doesn’t end there. Alongside all the joys and the rewards are pressures that make doing business very stressful. Stress is harmful on many levels – it can harm you physically, mentally and emotionally.

For many entrepreneurs, the most common source of stress is the workload. Many entrepreneurs are finding they work harder and longer. And the pressure is different if you are running your own business than working 40 hours a week for someone else.

Another stressor is the financial aspect of the business. Seldom do we see businesses without debt. This causes great stress on the part of the entrepreneur; balancing of funds and converting all the expenses into income. Wanting to get back their investment quickly adds stress to the entrepreneur as well.

Remember that you often have to make crucial decisions correctly and quickly, and you can’t make correct decisions if you’re tense. And for those who are only beginning to introduce themselves to this kind of environment, it may be especially stressful.

Here are three tips for helping you reduce stress:

• Start at your desk: Clutter can contribute to stress; you can waste a lot of time looking for things you need. So the first thing you want to do is clean up all the mess and put away the things that do not have to be on your desk. A clean desk will be more pleasant to work on. (Look for my upcoming blog with several organization tips!)

• Multiply yourself: If you think you can’t do an enormous task on your own, hire or joint venture with people who can help you. Remember that successful entrepreneurs know when to seek help. Two heads are better than one and four hands are better than two, right?

• And finally… relax: Take time to breathe and clear your mind from all the worries in front of you. Go for a walk or do any exercise you enjoy. If you’re finding yourself burned out, take a few days off and get into some new surroundings. The income you think you might be losing is nothing compared to losing your health. And you never know – if you’re rested and relaxed you just might come up with that next great idea. Or you might meet someone who could be a possible client or joint venture partner, who you never would have met at home. Here’s a blog I wrote on why entrepreneurs should take a vacation.

Soon enough, you’re back on track, better and livelier!