Owning a small business is a big undertaking that requires a lot of hard work and dedication. It can be very rewarding, but it is important to get the work-life balance right so that the business is manageable and you have the time to enjoy your life outside work.
The COVID-19 pandemic had a major impact on the way small businesses work, with many people shifting to remote work and facing new challenges when it comes to balancing their work and personal lives. With the cost of living changes, inflation and countless other factors currently in play in the UK at the start pf 2023, trying to find a balance is even more important, especially if you run a small business.
Having spoken with our clients and being a micro business as well, as well as being hit directly by the impacts of Covid-19 & long Covid, we thought it would be worth recapping on why the work-life balance is important.
Why is work-life balance so important for small business owners?
A work-life balance is important if you run your own business for many reasons:
- Improved mental health. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can help to reduce stress and improve overall mental health. When you’re constantly working long hours and not taking breaks, it can lead to feelings of burnout and anxiety, which can harm your personal and professional life.
- Increased productivity. Achieving a good work-life balance can help you to be more productive at work. When you have time to relax and recharge outside of work, you’re more likely to feel energized and focused when you’re on the job.
- Better relationships. Maintaining a healthy work-life balance can also help to improve your relationships with your family and friends. When you’re not constantly working, you’ll have more time to spend with the people you care about, which can help to strengthen your bonds and improve your overall sense of happiness and fulfilment.
- Increased job satisfaction. Finally, achieving a good work-life balance can help to increase your job satisfaction. When you feel like you have a good balance between your work and personal life, you’re more likely to feel fulfilled and content in your job, which can lead to increased job satisfaction and a better overall quality of life.
So how do you run your business and get balance?
Here are some simple steps you can take to achieve a good work-life balance as a small business owner:
- Set boundaries: It can be easy to get caught up in work and let it consume all of your time, but it is important to set boundaries and make time for other activities that are important to you. This might mean setting aside specific times of the day or week for work and other times for personal activities.
- Delegate tasks: As a small business owner, you may feel like you need to do everything yourself in order to ensure that things are done correctly. However, this can be overwhelming and lead to burnout. Instead, try to delegate tasks to others who can help you. This can help to free up your time and allow you to focus on the most important tasks.
- Use technology to your advantage: There are many tools and technologies available that can help you work more efficiently and effectively. For example, you can use project management software to help you stay organized and on track, or you can use video conferencing tools to meet with clients and team members remotely. We have some details of how technology can help you get a better balance in your working day here.
- Take breaks: It is important to take breaks and give yourself time to rest and recharge. This can help to prevent burnout and ensure that you are able to work effectively. If you work frmo home, take 15 minutes to wander round the garden, make a brew to get away from the computer, chat with the neighbours or just focus on you.
- Find ways to disconnect: It can be hard to completely disconnect from work, especially when you are running your own business. However, it is important to find ways to disconnect and relax. This might mean taking a walk, practising meditation, or engaging in a hobby. Our favourite disconnects are hitting the rowing machine, splitting firewood or playing with guns on the XBox!
By following these steps, you can help to create a better balance between work and other areas of your life. This can help you to be more productive and fulfilled both personally and professionally.
