Summer is almost over, and between juggling the kids at home, running a full-time business, and the constant buzz of home-life and summer activities, we're more than ready to unplug and regroup before fall.
While we’re incredibly grateful for the flexibility our work brings and all the fun summer offers, life as a business owner, parent, and human can start to feel a bit hectic and overwhelming by this point. The demands of managing multiple roles can leave us feeling stretched thin, making it crucial to prioritize our mental well-being and carve out time for rest when burnout feels inevitable.
Here are a few ways we make time for self-care and ensure we stay refreshed and energized:
1. Schedule Mental Resets and Breaks
This is essential and often overlooked. Since starting our business, we've made it a point to schedule a week off at the end of August to truly disconnect, rest, and regroup before the busy fall season ahead. Be sure to include intentional downtime in your calendar. Whether it’s 15 minutes, an hour, a full day, or a week, don’t underestimate the power of a pause. Setting aside time for mental resets helps recharge our energy and maintain our focus.
2. Plan Something Just for You
We love our rituals, and taking time to do something just for yourself makes a world of difference in your energy, outlook, and stress levels. Read a book, take a walk, watch your favorite show—whatever brings you joy and gives you a moment just for you. Self-care isn't selfish; it's essential. These small but significant acts of self-love can revitalize your spirit and improve your overall well-being.
3. Don’t Sweat the Slow Periods
Summertime naturally shifts day-to-day life, with many of us spending less time online and more time outside. We’ve learned to embrace the slower seasons and use this time to work on our business rather than in it. Slower periods offer a unique opportunity to reflect, strategize, and prepare for the busy times ahead. Instead of stressing over a temporary lull, focus on growth and development activities that can set the stage for future success.
Burnout is a natural response to prolonged stress and overexertion, but it's manageable with the right approach. Prioritizing mental resets, planning personal activities, and embracing slower periods can make a significant difference in our overall well-being. As we gear up for the busy fall season, let's remember to take care of ourselves and find joy in the small moments.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed or on the brink of burnout, know that you’re not alone. Let's support each other in finding balance and maintaining our mental health as we continue to navigate the challenges of business ownership, parenting, and everyday life.