Tackling Stress in Your Small Business

The stresses of everyday life can often become overwhelming, particularly when you are trying to manage your small business efficiently and provide your customers with the best experience possible. 
The list of what you need to do, and all the ‘want to do’s’, can seem never ending at times.
 
We often write off the difficulties we may be facing as ‘tomorrow’s problem’, but it is essential that you take a step back and check in on your wellbeing and mental health during stressful periods. When stress at work is left unchecked, it can easily begin to affect your life and relationships outside of work. 
From deadlines to staffing issues and working long hours, you may sometimes feel that the world is on your shoulders. 
Watch out for the signs of stress getting on top of you: 

• Increased heartbeat 
• Feeling anxious 

• Headaches 
• Sleeping problems 
• Irritability 
• Inability to focus 

These signs are a good indicator that things may be beginning to get on top of you.
We have compiled a list of ways that you may be able to practically tackle your stress levels within the workplace. 

• Work-Life balance: Take time away from your business, even when just at home, where you can put your phone away and log-off mentally from work while spending time with friends and family. Try to eat a healthy, balanced diet and get plenty of sleep. 
• Manage your calendar: Schedule specific days or times for staff concerns, managing your accounts, and other tasks. Then – stick to them. If you manage your calendar well, you can easily see where you are able to take a moment to yourself when needed. 
• Prioritise your workload: Is this task urgent? Does it need doing right now, or can you add it to your calendar to complete later when you aren’t in the middle of something? 
• Communicate: Make your expectations known. Make sure you and your other employees are aware of when you are available for work-related issues and discussions, and that your private time is just that. 
• Practice relaxation techniques: Engage in relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or yoga. 

Ask for Help 
Whether you run your own business or are an employee, there are always options and ways to seek help with your stress load in the workplace. 

1. Seek support from colleagues. Speak to your HR manager or supervisor and see what can change in your role or the support you receive for it. If you are the big boss; 
2. Consider hiring an assistant or virtual assistant to lighten the load of your day-to-day administrative tasks, leaving you more available to focus on what is important to your business. 
3. Think about outsourcing tasks like bookkeeping and payroll to your accounting firm. 

It is important to remember that asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. We all need it sometimes. If things are getting on top of you, don’t be afraid to reach out to services such as Beyond Blue: a national mental health organisation that provides support for individuals experiencing stress, anxiety, and depression. They offer a range of resources, including a helpline, online chat, and self-help tools. 

Think you need to lighten the load? We are here to help our clients – reach out to us to discuss what we can do to help with your bookkeeping needs. ​

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