Running a business or working in sales doesn’t leave much time for yourself. The struggle to find a healthy work-life balance is more challenging than ever, which makes the idea of taking long baths more often or escaping to read a book seem unreal…unachievable.
The reality is: you can’t take care of business or your clients if you don’t take care of yourself.
Even though you’re busy and focused on business, you have to make time for self-care.
So how do you recharge your batteries to stay passionate, motivated, and productive? How do you start taking better care of your physical, emotional, and mental health?
Here are 10 ways to practice self-care as a sales leader:
Sleep.
It may sound counterintuitive, but if you want to be more productive you need to get enough sleep. Sufficient sleep will help you power through rough days. On the other hand, fatigue will interfere with your performance. Try putting down your phone an hour before you go to bed, and aim for 7-9 hours a night.
Bonus: correcting your sleep will help you shed that extra weight (if that’s your goal).
Take breaks.
If you’re stuck at a desk all day, work stretch breaks into your schedule. Go for a walk on your break or eat lunch outside. Do some stretches. A few minutes away can give your brain the relief it needs.
Bonus: drinking plenty of water is healthy for you, but will also help you take more frequent bathroom breaks. Just remember to take the long way back to your desk.
Learn to say no.
You can’t do it all. If you’re a chronic overscheduler like I am, you need to practice saying no. It’s easy to overwhelm yourself and struggle to get things done when you’re juggling a hectic schedule. Saying no can be liberating.
Bonus: before you say yes to a new project or event, consider if it aligns with your goals. Does it even benefit you? If it doesn’t, that’s an easy “no”.
Practice gratitude.
Gratitude is a powerful motivator. If you want to stay in a positive mindset, focus on the things you’re thankful for.
Make “me time” a part of your routine.
Is there a hobby you enjoy? Whether it’s baking, cooking, photography, or video games, find a way to incorporate regular “me time” into your schedule. Everyone needs time to pursue the things they love.
Bonus: our hobbies keep us interesting!
Exercise.
Staying active at least 30 minutes a day isn’t just a physical benefit, it can also benefit you mentally. Exercise can even boost your mood. Put it on your calendar. Set an alarm. Find a way to move your body.
Bonus: find something that you enjoy. Decluttering the house is something I enjoy, and if you think moving bags of donations, furniture and boxes isn’t exercise, I don’t know what is.
Eat well.
Taking care of your body means nourishing it with healthy food. Cut back on processed food and enjoy more fruit and vegetables. I love cooking and remaking meals I would normally enjoy at restaurants. Variety keeps your diet interesting and enjoyable so don’t be afraid to try cooking something new.
Bonus: services like Hello Fresh helped me get into the habit of cooking more often.
Care for others.
This might seem like a strange addition to a list about self care, but giving back is actually one of the best forms of self care. Focusing entirely on yourself is draining. Doing nice things for other people not only uplifts them, it will increase your happiness too.
Delegate.
Remember when I said, “you can’t do it all”? The best leaders know how to delegate responsibility to maximize their impact. Give yourself a manageable amount of work, focusing on your strengths and where your energy is best applied, and delegate the rest. Don’t be afraid to ask for help when you need it.
Live in the moment.
As sales leaders, it’s easy to get ahead of ourselves and feel overwhelmed by the future. Mindfulness is all about living in the now. Try a guided meditation in the morning. Find ways to ground yourself when you feel your mind wandering and worrying.
Bonus: You know yourself best. I personally don’t meditate, but I know what helps me clear my head, reset and focus on what’s in front of me. What is that thing for you?
I hope these tips help make your days less stressful. What are your favorite things to do for self care?
