Running a small business takes grit, passion, and a whole lot of energy. But when you’re constantly juggling tasks, solving problems, and trying to stay afloat, it’s easy to forget one crucial thing: you!
Your wellbeing isn’t just important – IT’S CRITICAL. If you’re burnt out, stressed, or running on empty, your business will feel it too. Looking after yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s a smart business move.
Why It Matters
According to Better for Business NZ, many small business owners in New Zealand report high levels of stress and burnout. Yet only a small percentage actively take steps to protect their wellbeing.
4 Ways to Look After Yourself While Running a Business
1. Know the Signs of Burnout
Burnout can creep up slowly. You might feel tired, irritable, or disconnected - but brush it off as “just being busy.”
What to watch for:
Constant fatigue, even after rest
Feeling overwhelmed or anxious
Losing interest in your work
Trouble sleeping or switching off
What you can do:
Take regular breaks - even short ones help – a quick cuppa in the sunshine or 5 minutes playing with the kids in the afternoon.
Talk to someone: a friend, mentor, or professional.
Use wellbeing resources like First Steps NZ, designed for business owners.
2. Set Boundaries and Take Breaks
Without boundaries, work can spill into every part of your life. Before you know it you are replying to customer emails at 9.30pm and again at 5am. That’s a fast track to burnout.
What you can do:
Set work hours and stick to them (as much as possible).
Schedule time off - even if it’s just a half-day to recharge or to watch your kids in the school play.
Turn off notifications outside work hours.
Tip:
Block out “non-negotiable” personal time in your calendar: treat it like a client appointment.
3. Connect with Other Business Owners
Running a business can feel isolating. Connecting with others reminds you that you’re not alone.
What you can do:
Join local business groups or online communities.
Attend networking events or workshops.
Reach out to a fellow business owner for a coffee and chat.
NZ Resource:
Check out BNI or another local networking group near you.
4. Reconnect with Your “Why” and Set Realistic Goals
When stress builds up, it’s easy to lose sight of why you started your business in the first place.
What you can do:
Reflect on what you love about your work.
Write down your goals: then break them into small, achievable steps.
Celebrate progress, not just perfection.
Tip:
Your goals don’t have to be big. Even small wins can reignite your motivation.
Final Thought
You are the backbone of your business. Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish: it’s strategic. When you’re well, your business is stronger, your decisions are clearer, and your energy is sustainable. Sometimes sharing the load can help you feel more like yourself again – you can book in for a free 30 minute chat with one of the team.
Coming up next...
We have one more bonus post in this series coming out next to bring everything we have covered together. Sign-up here to get this straight to your inbox.
Just joined us - check out the previous posts in this series here:
Post One: Feeling the Pressure?
Post Three: Happy Customers = Happy Business
