Sick days are a problem when it is just you. And many self employed have a habit of working through off days, which short term might be fine, but could exacerbate a bigger problem. What would happen if you found yourself unable to work? Self care is important for everyone but particularly important when you are self employed.
“You can't pour from an empty cup, so take care of yourself first.”
What is self care? It's the simple practice of taking care of yourself by doing activities that promote and strengthen your mental, emotional and physical well being. And should be a priority for the self employed in order not to venture near a breaking point.
What is important for you to do regularly that puts a smile on your face? It could mean a bit of time out mid week, taking a long weekend off. Making time for quality time with family and friends. Or a bit of personal pampering – massage to relieve an aching body. What you need will be individual to you.
Practice self care regularly. Make it an integral part of your working day. That could mean doing something for you for 20-30 minutes a day.
Make sure you get the rest that you need. Sleep is important, we are recharging out batteries and giving our minds and bodies that much needed rest.
Switching off from work. Don't let work consume your head space all day everyday. Do something relaxing every day that allows you to switch off completely. Work will still be there tomorrow.
It can take real, conscious, intentional effort to create a balance that contributes to your overall long term well being. Once you are able to get a balance that works for you, it eliminates the need to react to the daily stresses of being self employed.
What are you doing to create self care balance in your working week, working month, working year?