As the owner and manager, you are the number one resource of your business. The success of your business depends on your being able to keep yourself mentally and physically ready to run the business. Do this starts with you taking some time out for yourself. As the owner, you are always encouraged to get away from the daily operations to think about long-term strategy and planning. However, you also just need to get away. You should spend some time every day doing something nonbusiness related. You should also work at least some mini-vacations into your schedule. If you are the only employee, send your calls to voice mail and set your computer to respond that you will reply in a couple of days. Most customers who contact your business will not get upset if they need to wait a couple of days?just make sure that when you get back you respond as quickly as possible.
Some other ideas include:
- making lists of work and personal commitments. Prioritize that list, and check it often.
- finding what energizes you and including it in your daily schedule.
- being selective in what you add to your to-do list.
- remembering to include friends and family in your schedule.
Taking care of your business means taking care of you. Make it a daily priority.
