Entrepreneurs are known for working day and night. After all, most entrepreneurs start their own businesses because they have big goals and visions that push them to do what others think is impossible. If they aren’t careful, however, entrepreneurs can end up burnt out. Here are some simple ways you can avoid burnout as an entrepreneur.
- Set a schedule
You may have become an entrepreneur to avoid set schedules, but following a schedule is important, even when you work for yourself. Having strict business hours to operate within will allow you to set boundaries around your time. Whenever possible, do not work outside of your business hours. Instead, use that time to rest, recharge, and enjoy life.
- Be self-aware
Entrepreneurs must be hyper self-aware. You need to know when you’re close to burning out and have the wisdom to hit the brakes. It’s critical for your business that you stay sharp, which requires rest. When you feel yourself nearing the burnout zone, take the day off.
- Get accountability
If you’re prone to workaholic tendencies, get some accountability in place. Your accountability could come in the form of a business partner, a spouse, or a friend. Be sure to tell this person that you’re worried about overworking and that you need them to help you. This person should be someone who isn’t afraid to dish out tough love, even in the face of opposition. Chances are high that if you’re overworking, you’ll resist the suggestion to rest, but commit to listening to your accountability partner— no matter what!
- Don’t compare yourself to other entrepreneurs
Being a workaholic is basically a status symbol these days, but don’t allow comparisons with others to drive you to burnout. Your friend boasting that they worked 100 hours last week is no reason to try to do the same. Likewise, don’t compare your organization’s results with others. Remember, even if a competitor seems to be achieving success faster than you, you can’t catch up by burning yourself out.
- Don’t be afraid to delegate
It’s easy to assume when you own a business that no one else can do the work as well as you, but that assumption is naive. You can and should hire people you trust. If you hire someone who specializes in a certain area, there’s a good chance that they will do the work even better than you.
As the owner of your business, there are certain tasks that only you can do and are worth your time. Everything else should be delegated or outsourced.