Five ways to reduce stress as a small business owner

Owning a small business is incredibly stressful due to the constant demands on the owner’s time, which often leads to neglecting key business activities like marketing and development. This can cause a cycle of stagnation and increased stress. However, strategies exist to break this cycle.

Business owners shouldn’t hesitate to seek help from coaches, mentors, or organizations like The Icehouse. Prioritizing personal well-being is crucial since the health of the business is directly linked to the owner’s mental and physical state. Dr. Mark Le Fevre emphasizes the importance of self-care and recommends minimizing interruptions to maintain focus and reduce stress.

Incorporating healthy habits, such as exercise or improving the workspace, can also contribute to a better focus and less stress. Delegating tasks is another important strategy for reducing workload and ensuring the business can function without the owner’s constant input. Recognizing signs of under-delegating, like not remembering daily activities, and using a diary can help identify tasks that can be passed on to others.

Finally, leveraging technology allows business owners to work remotely, providing flexibility and the ability to take breaks from the office environment. Embracing these practices not only benefits the business owner but also the entire business, as a less stressed leader leads to a healthier work environment.