Are you a workaholic? Or maybe you just wish you had a few extra hours a week to spend with your family or invest in your social life.
According to a survey conducted by Harvard Business School, a staggering 94 per cent of people reported working more than 50 hours per week; nearly half of those said they work more than 65 hours per week. And those numbers don’t include business owners.
As an independent retailer, you’ve probably had days, weeks or even months where you spend more time at the office than you do at home, both physically and mentally. One of the most important things you can do for your health, your family and your business is to develop a healthy work-life balance. Here are five tips to avoid burnout and achieve one that fits your lifestyle:
Unplug and Relax. Whether it means spending a few hours at the gym, getting drinks with friends or hanging out with loved ones, it’s important to unwind on a daily basis. When you feel your best, you’re better able to put your best foot forward and be the best you can be for your friends, your family and your business. And remember, always leave work at work.
Work Smarter, Not Longer. Instead of working longer, harder hours in the hopes of achieving success, change your structure so you make smarter work decisions. It’s all about prioritization, productivity and excellent communication between you and your employees. As an added bonus, you’ll find that the more efficient you are, the more profitable your company will be.
Determine Values. What is most important to you? Do you want to make it home for dinner at 5 p.m. every night? Or be able to leave your store at any time and know that everything will be OK? Or is it all about sales and profits? Figure out what you value most and plan your work life around it– not the other way around.
Set Boundaries. While it’s nearly impossible for business owners to turn their phones off and not respond to emails, it’s important to find a way to set boundaries with your staff. Consider giving supervisors and managers more responsibility and authority so your employees don’t have to rely on you for all of the answers, all the time – especially when you’re not at the workplace.
Ask for Help. Whether at home or at the office, you can’t do it all yourself. Try delegating tasks – to both employees and family members – so you can maximize what little free time you have. One of the reasons you got into business for yourself was freedom and flexibility, so why not make the most of it?
