Guest Post By: Julie Morris
Small Business Owners Should Use These 4 Ideas to Banish COVID Stress
Running a business typically causes quite a bit of stress simply because there are so many responsibilities that come with it. When you’re an entrepreneur who’s trying to run things during the uncertainty of a pandemic, stress and anxiety are magnified. Whether you’re in the process of putting together a startup or are trying to maintain success with an existing business, there are a few things you can do to protect your mental health during this time.
Here are a few tips on how to stay energized, stress-free, and positive no matter what your business throws at you.
Hold yourself accountable and achieve your goals with a Goal Crazy planner!
1. Protect your assets
Financial-related stress can bring you down pretty quickly, affecting your productivity and leaving you feeling out of control. An easy way to protect your assets and gain a little more flexibility in running your business is to form a LLC, or limited liability company. This will allow you to separate your business and personal finances and debts, and it will give you tax benefits as well. You can avoid paying attorney fees by filing yourself or using a service, but each state has its own rules and regulations, so read up on how to start a LLC to get an idea of the paperwork, filing deadlines, and necessary steps in the process.
2. Find support
While forming an LLC will provide some peace of mind, it’s important to find support from friends, family members, and other business owners. Whether you’re just starting out or are an experienced self-starter, finding a sense of community will help you feel like you’re not alone. Look online for support groups and for networking opportunities through sites like LinkedIn. Utilize social media to stay connected with other local business owners, and consider asking them to partner with you for sales opportunities that will benefit you both.
3. Take care of yourself
It’s easy to forget to make yourself a priority when you have so many other things on your plate, but it’s a good idea to practice self-care often in order to banish stress and anxiety. Staying social and connecting with other business owners is a great start, but you can also find ways to boost your confidence, energy, and overall health.
You can also find a new workout or spend time outdoors, or better yet, both at the same time. Hiking, playing a sport, running, or simply going for walks will help you recharge when you’re feeling overworked and overwhelmed. To get the maximum benefit, get outside with a loved one or with a pet and spend some quality time with them while you’re getting fresh air.
4. Set some realistic goals
Whether your goals are to get fit or to garner new customers and clients for your business, it’s essential to make them realistic. Including specific dates or deadlines will help you measure the goals, and they should be detailed plans relevant to your current needs rather than vague ideas. Clarifying your goals through a Goal Crazy planner and noting milestones will give you the motivation to keep going.
One key step in setting goals is organization, as it will prevent stress and keep you accountable at the same time. Ensure that your office space is easy to navigate and that your personal and business paperwork is kept separate. Not only will this give you some peace of mind as you work to maintain success, but it will also help keep anxiety at bay because you’ll be eliminating disorder.
Finding ways to banish stress and anxiety and focus on self-care when you’re a business owner can be tough, but it’s not impossible. Look for support and set some limits for yourself in order to prevent burnout, especially if you work from home.
Photo via Pexels
Guest Post By: Julie Morris