How to Prevent Burnout as An Entrepreneur

As an entrepreneur, the propensity to do it all, whether it’s because you’re Type A or can’t/won’t hire support, will have you running on fumes. But burnout doesn’t have to be the status quo as a business owner.

Stop Burnout Before It Happens

As a former corporate executive and serial entrepreneur, I’ve experienced my fair share of burnout moments. So I’ve put together some tips for staying motivated and, most of all, sane as you navigate your entrepreneurial journey.

• Work with a purpose. If you enjoy and believe in the work you do, you are less likely to burnout.
• Delegate and Ask for Help. If you can’t do it all, don’t. Better to ask for help early-on then to let yourself or others down.
• Take a Vacation. Whether it is a long weekend or a two-week vacation…a true break from work is often exactly what you need.
• Prioritize Self-Care. Exercise daily, eat healthy, drink plenty of water and most of all, get your rest.

Remember, recognizing and mitigating burnout is crucial to showing up as your best self for your business.

Stop Overscheduling Yourself

There is nothing more daunting than an overscheduled week. Here are a few tips to help you take control of your schedule.

• Start and end each day with some free time to tackle emails, phone calls, etc.
• Block lunch out so you have guaranteed downtime midday, every day.
• Schedule your self care activities on the calendar (e.g. workouts, dog walks, massage) – and do not allow yourself to book over them.
• Allow a few minutes between each meeting to grab a cup of coffee or take a bathroom break.
• If you are driving between meetings make sure that you allow enough time for traffic – I put an extra 15 min between meetings just in case.
• If you have too much scheduled in one day then reschedule to the following week if not pressing or better yet, delegate!

Remember, having a manageable schedule makes you more productive and effective as an entrepreneur and leader.

Stop Focusing On Just The Money

Don’t get me wrong…money is important and has been a big motivator in my career, however there are times when money truly isn’t enough. I’ve had highly paid roles that in the end made me miserable and no amount of money would have convinced me to stay. I’ve also had very rewarding jobs that weren’t as well paid as others.

The lesson here? We spend the majority of our waking hours working and although the extra cash can bring some level of joy and an improved standard of living, no amount of money can make up for being unfulfilled and/or unhappy. So choose your path carefully and make sure it aligns with your personal values and your goals.