As a small business owner, you need to be at the top of your game at every moment. After all, your most important asset is you. Here are 10 easy ways you can be a healthier (and as a result, more successful) business owner this year.
Focus on eating whole foods
We all need a wide variety of nutrients to be healthy and to perform at our best. Don’t get stuck in the rut of eating the same foods each day. Look at what you’re eating on a daily basis and ensure you’re eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains. By changing things up daily, you won’t get bored of eating the same foods and be tempted to reach for foods that aren’t so healthy for you.
Start reading labels
Reality is that as a busy business owner always on the go, there are times when you’ll eat packaged foods. When there is no other option, be sure to read nutrition labels properly and make an effort to understand what you’re putting inside your body. Generally speaking, you want your food to contain a good amount of fibre and protein (both keep you full) and as little sugar and sodium as possible.
Go for liquids that fuel your body
So many people don’t realise they’re not drinking enough water throughout the day. While coffee, energy drinks or even soft drink may have you feeling good at the time, they’re not doing anything for your body. Aim for 6 glasses of water each day and I promise you that your mood, energy and ability to think clearly will each get an instant boost.
You don’t have to hit the gym to exercise
The key to maintaining your commitment to keep your body moving is to find something you truly enjoy doing. For me, it’s running but don’t think you have to run or hit the gym to work up a sweat that’ll benefit your body. There are plenty of options out there – from bike riding to team sports such as basketball or hockey. Give something different a go and you just might be pleasantly surprised.
Eat more frequent, smaller meals
As a small business owner myself, I know how difficult it can be to find time to eat meals during the day. You start your day and suddenly, it’s 3pm and you haven’t had a chance to grab a bite to eat. It’s important to eat throughout the day to keep your blood sugar levels steady and at a high level so that you’re not always hungry and craving food. Lighten up your main meals and include a couple of snacks throughout the day and you’ll feel a lot more energised to take on the world.
Be sun smart
I’m always telling my clients how important it is to slip, slop and slap while outside. Getting out into the fresh air is fantastic but be aware that sun exposure increases your risk of skin cancer. While outside, pop on a hat, cover up or use a high SPF sunscreen, even on those days where it looks like the sun may not be out.
Ensure you’re getting enough sleep
So many of us these days are sleep deprived. Thanks to technology, we’re all connected on a 24/7 basis. It can be hard to turn off your phone as a business owner, but it’s essential to giving yourself some downtime at night and having a good night’s sleep. Who can sleep with their phone buzzing away next to them? Make sure your room is comfy and aim to keep a regular routine.
Plan out your meals each week
We’re all guilty of making poor food choices every now and then. Most of these decisions are made when we fail to plan out our meals. Set aside 30 minutes every Sunday to organise what you’re going to eat for the week ahead for each meal. Then head down to the supermarket, armed with your shopping list and you’ll be well on your way to eating a healthy, balanced diet that’ll help you to focus.
Treat yourself every now and then
Life is here to be lived! While there is a place for planning and routines, every now and again, let your hair down and enjoy the simple things. Never feel guilty about tripping up here and there, just do your best to get back on the right track. Life is too short to talk about restrictive diets and exercise programs that consume you.
Choose to be happy
Running a business is super stressful – possibly the most stressful thing most of us will ever choose to do in our lifetime. Your mindset is incredibly important in terms of how you’ll deal with those days where things aren’t going to plan. Wake up each morning, spend 5 minutes thinking about everything you’re grateful for and choose to be happy.
Want more? Get our newsletter delivered straight to your inbox! Follow Kochie’s Business Builders on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn.
Trending
Weekly business news and insights, delivered to your inbox.