We all lead incredibly busy lives these days. Being super-connected all the time has led to incredible pressure to do more, be more – and be seen having fun while doing it. And when you throw in running your own business into the mix, it’s extremely easy for the stress to mount up.
Often we internalise a lot of this without even realising. We think of it as normal to be constantly multi-tasking and trying to squeeze huge tasks like raising a family and exercising on a regular schedule alongside building a company from scratch and all the money management that demands. We tell ourselves that this is what we signed up for and we shoulder the burden uncomplainingly. Yet sometimes, when we don’t acknowledge the pressure we’re under, and we don’t develop coping strategies, problems can build up quickly to the point where they’re unbearable.So if you’re seriously overloaded, how do you make sure it doesn’t spill over into disaster and what are the warning signs to look out for?
#1: You’re Neglecting Your Health
When there’s a constant list of competing priorities shouting for your attention at home or at work, it’s easy to put your own needs to the bottom of the pile. Running your own business often means doing many different functions yourself way before you can afford to expand and take on staff, so it’s especially tempting for small business owners to neglect themselves. There are many different ways this can manifest itself – from skipping meals or grabbing unhealthy fast food, to cutting out exercise, burning the candle at both ends and not getting enough sleep, even down to drinking too much. These all start out as fairly innocuous but it’s a slippery slope and the worst outcome is developing a serious health condition or addiction issues which may even require a partial hospitalization program or intensive recovery. So make sure you are getting the basics of self-care right on a daily basis – after all, you are reliant on your own talents to grow your business, so look after them.
#2: Your Mood Is Dipping
Everyone has the occasional down day, but if you’ve noticed a change in your moods and behaviour, you need to look closer at the causes. Should you find yourself snapping at family more, feeling increasingly irritable with suppliers or struggling to plaster on a smile when pitching for new business, that’s a warning sign that you’re under too much pressure. Make sure you practice good sleep hygiene, as without adequate quality shut-eye, you’re going to struggle to focus or be able to creatively problem solve. Also learn the power of saying no, and forgive yourself for not being able to do everything – you need to prioritise when you have a busy life.
#3: You’re Becoming Forgetful
Ever find you have no idea where your keys and phone are, or find yourself aimlessly wandering a shop aisle unable to recall what you came in for? Being suddenly much more forgetful is a sure sign that you’re overloaded. Too much on your plate and not enough downtime is the culprit. Hard as it might be, make some time for you – schedule it in so it’s just as important as any other appointment. It’s not frivolous at all – you’re protecting an important resource.
#4: You Can’t Switch Off
You know the scenario – you finally get to bed at night, feeling exhausted but you just can’t seem to find the off switch for your brain. For overloaded entrepreneurs, this scenario is common. Combat the mental load by seeking support wherever possible – if budgets will allow you to get meals delivered or have someone to help with the cleaning then do! Using a mindfulness app to help you wind down in the evenings is a great trick to clear your mind and help you get some rest.
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