Successful Business Owners Tackle Preventing Burnout
Side hustles are growing in popularity. Nearly two-thirds of Gen Zers have one. Having a second revenue stream is highly encouraged since full-time roles are so unreliable– a lesson learned during Covid. While ideal in hindsight, there are downsides to managing multiple streams of income, one being burnout.
63% of business owners reported that they’ve dealt with or are currently dealing with burnout. Being in a state of mental, emotional and physical exhaustion is highly unhealthy. Therefore, we interviewed business owners with successful enterprises to give us a rundown of how to care for ourselves on the way to the top.
Shaquanna “Ms. Business” Brooks: Brooks Alliance LLC Founder
How do you treat burnout and prevent burnout?
When I started my business, I would work and work until I burned out. I quickly learned that is not the best for the productivity of my business, my creativity or my health. When I feel burned out, I know I am taking on too many tasks, and it is time to delegate them. To prevent burnout, I have set boundaries and I utilize my calendar to reinforce those boundaries. As an example, I schedule one weekly meeting with the head of each department within my business, I do not take meetings after a certain time, I only take client meetings on one specific day, and I block time on my calendar to answer emails. This method has been a game-changer for me. I recommend every business owner set boundaries and highly use their calendar.
What are some self-care practices implemented into your lifestyle?
As a CEO, self-care is non-negotiable. I cannot be everything to everyone and nothing to myself. Self-care ranges from lunch with friends in NYC to booking a week-long vacation to do whatever my heart desires. I have never regretted taking time for myself!
Are there any resources you recommend to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle?
Utilize your Calendar on your phone, or hire a virtual assistant via onlinejobs.ph, delegate the small task by hiring someone on fivver.com or hire my firm to take care of your Tax & Bookkeeping needs.
Any words of encouragement for our readers?
I encourage anyone that is reading this to serve their way to the top. This methodology will never steer you wrong. Enjoy the ride because if your business is built right you will never have to do it again, therefore, these moments are once in a lifetime.
I am a CPA, so I had to leave everyone with a piece of tax advice! The Tax code isn’t in favor of employees. I strongly suggest turning your hobby into a side business and/or investing in real estate. That is how you will keep more of your money and live a tax-free lifestyle.
Jackie Granchamps: Cecile’s Bath & Body, Founder & CEO
How do you treat burnout and prevent burnout?
Burnout is a persistent feeling of mental and physical exhaustion that you don’t want to mess with. One of the ways I avoid it is to plan out my tasks, block out time for each piece, and then try to complete it in that time frame. This keeps you working consistently towards your goal and reduces the stress of making ongoing last-minute decisions. Accept that somewhere along the way things won’t go according to plan and that’s OK, but a clear roadmap keeps you from veering too far off track from your goal. Pace yourself and remember that it’s okay to take a break. Give yourself permission to rest, recharge, and come back stronger.
What are some self-care practices implemented into your lifestyle?
I try to take a bath once a week and spend some time relaxing alone. (There is something I love about a warm scented bath that makes listening to a podcast more luxurious.) Afterward having a nice deep scrub with bathing gloves using the Detoxifying Charcoal Soap.
Are there any resources you recommend to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle?
I really enjoy the app Happify. Take the free assessment and choose from dozens of learning tracks to improve your happiness level. Plus, cute games can help you beat a negative mindset.
Any words of encouragement for our readers?
When talent fails, discipline will back you up and help you go far. Push yourself to do the hard things consistently and be proud of yourself along the way. There is only one you, so be amazing!
Zewiditu Jewel: Cloudy Donut Co., Partnerships Director & Sober in The Morning, Founder & Host
How do you treat burnout and prevent burnout?
When I embarked on my journey to sobriety in 2018, I thought my anxiety stemmed from alcohol, but I quickly learned during therapy—everything I was running from lived inside of me. My self-esteem was tied to whatever I was doing and celebrated or suppressed with alcohol. Unpacking who and how we are can help us understand where we want to go and oftentimes it’s uncomfortable. But discomfort shows you that you are alive and able to grow. I do my best to prevent burnout by taking walks in nature. The most abundant things in life are actually free. Like breathing. Walking in a calming space and taking time for silence.
What are some self-care practices implemented into your lifestyle?
Every morning at 4 AM, I spend 30 minutes to myself in the bathroom. I begin with a conversation with myself and God. I then hydrate with water, followed by a quick skincare routine. Taking time for yourself first thing in the morning is the most imperative because as soon as you open your door, the world is ready for you—so it’s crucial to ensure that you are first ready for the world.
Are there any resources you recommend to maintain a well-balanced lifestyle?
Water. It’s funny because I never forget to drink coffee but water, we always need a reminder. Hydrate and moisturize all body parts because people are dry —don’t be one of those people.
Any words of encouragement for our readers?
You were created uniquely as yourself, born into this world with a purpose that is only meant for you to fulfill. Never forget yourself. Life is easy—it’s us as people that make things complicated. Be sweet to yourself while working hard toward your goals.
About the author: Shelby Denise Smith is a full-time Social Media Editor and part-time Freelance Writer. She loves writing about news, wellness, and beauty and hosting impactful conversations with influencers and experts on those subjects.