As a business owner, you probably invest so much time in your business that “me time” isn’t something you prioritize. But it should be.
There’s only one “you”. If you’re not taking care of yourself, who else will? When you’re at your best, the people around you can be at their best too, which is ultimately good for every aspect of your business.
Here are four reasons why making time for yourself is good for everyone.
You’ll be healthier
As a business owner, you’re working long hours, juggling responsibilities, and mitigating risks. Sooner or later, the stress you’re facing at work will show up in others aspects of your life, including your health.
According to Bob Rosen, author of Grounded: How Leaders Stay Rooted in an Uncertain World, strong physical health was a common trait among the leaders he interviewed for his book. They’re all aware that in order to sustain their busy work and travel schedules, they need to take care of themselves. Beware of the need to check your email before bed, which doesn’t allow you time to unwind and fall asleep—or sleep well, further putting your health at risk. Blocking out a few minutes every day for yourself to unwind in your calendar can help you tackle the rest of your day with peace of mind and a healthier body to boot.
You’ll be more productive
Your to-do list is neverending. Although it may be tempting to try and cross one more thing off that list each night, you should think twice. Projects expand to fit the amount of time allowed to them so you’ll get it done, but it’s not worth losing sleep over and jeopardizing your health. Spending an extra hour at night may sound like a great way to get the job done, but getting an extra hour of sleep instead will help you do the same job faster in the morning. Prioritize your own well-being on that list of to-dos and you’ll be able to work more efficiently through your workday.
You’ll be happier
Many people feel guilty about putting themselves first. But what if you were as selfish about your happiness as you are passionate about building your business? As entrepreneur Richard Branson best put it, “Many assume my business success has brought me happiness. But the way I see it, I am successful because I am happy.”
Investing in yourself allows you to invest in your business. When you make time to focus inward, you show up to your relationships a much happier and more authentic person. People want to be around positive people, so when you’re happy, this sends a ripple effect across all of your relationships at work creating positive morale. You’ll be more pleasant to work with, more receptive to feedback, and more understanding of work-life balance.
You’ll be more present
Making time to focus inward also means you’ll show up to work less fatigued, more recharged, and more present in your day-to-day interactions. Using your “me time” to create a quiet space to unwind from the daily grind helps you experience a change of pace and makes you aware of your natural balance, which helps to improve focus, creativity, energy, temperament, and productivity.
Being a good leader also means it’s your job to take care of yourself. Taking time out for yourself helps to improve your health, happiness, productivity and focus on and off the job. So be good to yourself and take some “me time”—it’s a necessity, not a luxury.
