Your Wellbeing is Your Business’s Secret Superpower

Let’s get real for a moment: running a business is exhilarating, challenging, and, at times, downright exhausting. As online service providers, we often find ourselves juggling clients, deadlines, and a never-ending to-do list, all while trying to keep some semblance of a personal life. But here’s the thing – if you’re not looking after your wellbeing, all those spinning plates are at risk of crashing down.

Imagine trying to run a marathon on a few hours of sleep. You wouldn’t do it, right? Yet, many of us push through our workday, convinced that powering through is the only way to keep up. Spoiler alert: it’s not. In fact, ignoring your wellbeing can actually stifle your business growth. 

Here’s why prioritising yourself is not just a good idea, but a business strategy in its own right.

The Sneaky Signs of Burnout

Burnout doesn’t usually announce itself with a fanfare; it sneaks up on you like a ninja in the night. One minute you’re smashing your goals, the next you’re staring at your screen wondering if you’ve forgotten how to spell your own name. Sound familiar? If you’re noticing a constant feeling of exhaustion that doesn’t go away with rest, a lack of motivation even for things you usually enjoy, or that you’re becoming increasingly irritable, you might be teetering on the edge of burnout.

Other signs include brain fog (when even the simplest tasks feel like wading through treacle), frequent headaches, and a general sense of detachment from your work. These aren’t just random bad days; they’re your body’s way of waving a red flag that something needs to change. 

And it’s not just about feeling lousy. Burnout can lead to a decline in the quality of your work, strained client relationships, and ultimately, the very thing you’re working so hard to build – your business – can start to suffer.

The Science Behind Wellbeing and Business Success

Here’s where it gets interesting. There’s a growing body of research showing that when we prioritise our wellbeing, we actually set ourselves up for greater success in business. When you’re well-rested, nourished, and mentally balanced, your brain functions at a higher level. You’re more creative, better at problem-solving, and more resilient in the face of challenges.

Cortisol, the stress hormone, is a key player here. When you’re constantly stressed, cortisol floods your system, and while a little bit of stress can be motivating, too much can cloud your thinking and impair your decision-making. 

Practices like mindfulness and meditation have been shown to lower cortisol levels, giving your brain the space to think clearly, make strategic decisions, and approach challenges with a calm, collected mindset.

Mindfulness, in particular, is like a supercharger for your brain. It strengthens the prefrontal cortex, the part of your brain responsible for executive function – that’s things like decision-making, problem-solving, and controlling impulses. It also boosts your emotional intelligence, helping you to navigate the ups and downs of business with grace rather than reactivity.

Practical Tips to Nourish Your Wellbeing

So, how do you go about nourishing your wellbeing when life feels like it’s moving at a hundred miles an hour? It doesn’t have to mean taking on even more tasks, or carve hours out of your day. Instead, it’s about integrating small, sustainable practices into your daily life.

Start with mindfulness. You don’t need to meditate for an hour every morning (unless that’s your jam). Even just taking five minutes to breathe deeply, check in with yourself, and reset your mind can make a world of difference. Try incorporating mini mindfulness breaks throughout your day – when you’re making a cup of tea, between client calls, or even while you’re brushing your teeth. These little pockets of peace can help you stay grounded and centred, no matter how chaotic your day gets.

Next, think about how you’re fueling your body. Are you living off caffeine and junk food? When we’re busy, it’s easy to reach for something convenient, but it’s not sustainable in the long run. Aim to eat nourishing, balanced meals that support your energy levels and overall health. And don’t forget to stay hydrated – it’s amazing what difference a glass of water can make.

Movement is another key player. Whether it’s a yoga session, a walk, or a quick dance around the living room, moving your body helps to release tension, boost your mood, and increase your energy levels. Plus, it’s a great way to shake off that mid-afternoon slump.

Finally, sleep. Good quality sleep is essential for cognitive function, emotional balance, and overall wellbeing. If you’re finding it hard to switch off at night, try a bedtime routine that includes some gentle stretching, a bit of light reading, or a few minutes of meditation.

The Ripple Effect of Wellbeing

When you prioritise your wellbeing, the effects ripple out into every area of your business. You’ll find you have more energy to devote to your clients, more creativity to inject into your projects, and more resilience to weather the inevitable storms. Your business will grow, not in spite of you taking care of yourself, but because of it.

Remember, you are your business’s most valuable asset. By investing in your wellbeing, you’re not just ensuring your own happiness and health; you’re setting your business up for sustainable, long-term success. So next time you’re tempted to push through that all-nighter, ask yourself: is this really the best thing for me and my business? The answer might just surprise you.