Healthy Habits for a Successful Female Entrepreneur

I don’t know about you, but I started my own business not only to be able to help people and pursue something I am passionate about, but also to escape the 9-5, to have more freedom, more flexibility, to be able to make my own decisions and have more control over the projects I work on.

But the reality is that you feel under constant pressure to perform at your best and you’ve probably found yourself working longer hours, scared to turn clients away, laying in bed at night answering emails, snacking on quick fixes in between appointments with days where it gets to 8pm and you realise you haven’t even set foot out the door.  Sound familiar?

The secret weapons of a successful female entrepreneur

Whilst the life of a solo female business owner can be challenging, with days when it feels like there are not enough hours to get everything done; there is a secret weapon that every successful female entrepreneur should know about.  The importance of taking care of your physical and mental health.

Taking care of your health is the ultimate in self-care and essential for running a successful business.  Prioritising you, getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, focusing on your sleep and practising mindfulness can help you to think more clearly, improve your decision making, increase your productivity and reduce overwhelm and the potential for burnout.

Without you, there is no business.  The better you are able to physically and mentally show up, the more your business with benefit.  But improving your health relies on more than willpower.

 What are habits?

Habits are powerful tools that allow us to automate our behaviours, making it easier to consistently engage in activities that support our wellbeing without relying on willpower.  They require little conscious effort, reduce decision fatigue and are more sustainable over the long term.

 The key to creating long lasting habits is to start small and build on small successes over time.  Your focus should be on consistency instead of perfection and it is important to be patient and kind to yourself.  Creating new habits takes time and effort, and setbacks are normal.  Instead of getting discouraged, you should take these occasions as an opportunity to reflect, learn from your experiences and alter your approach setting realistic goals that take into account your lifestyle, your schedule and your commitments.

 So, what are the healthy habits that are important for a successful female entrepreneur?

 Top 5 healthy habits for a successful female entrepreneur

 Improve your sleep

 Sleep is the building block of your overall health.  Ever noticed how everything just seems easier after a good night’s sleep?  Running your business is no different.  Improving the quality and quantity of your sleep supports your immune system and reduces the potential for sick days, it also helps to improve your learning, reduce stress and improves your mood.  Why not create a relaxing bedtime routine that will allow you to wind down at the end of the day helping you to drift off more easily and have you waking up feeling refreshed.

 Hydrate well

 Drinking enough water is critical for good health.  It regulates your body temperature, lubricates joints, aids your digestion, improves skin and boosts your energy levels.  It’s never been easier to make sure get your 2 litres of water a day as many places now refill for free.  Try carrying a refillable bottle with you so that whether you are working from home or at the office you can stay well hydrated.

 Eat a balanced diet

 Eating a well balanced diet is key to maintaining good health and keeping you feeling at your best.  It gives you the energy you need to keep active during the day and getting your 5-a-day is proven to boost your brain power and creativity. If you are short on time why not use a meal prep delivery service to reduce the need for meal planning and shopping.  It’s also a great way of getting all the family involved at cooking time.

 Keep Active

 Exercise helps you to sleep better, improves your learning and problem solving and increases the production of endorphins giving you a natural high ad reducing your stress levels.  Try scheduling in workouts like a meeting to make sure they don’t slip to the bottom of your to-do list.  If you can get outside to exercise and reap the benefits of the extra vitamin D, even better.  Don’t be put off by feeling like you have to have an hour-long sweat-fest, just getting outside for a 10 minute walk is better than nothing.

 Getting organised

 Running a successful business requires good organisational skills but making a few small changes to the way you organise your schedule, systems and physical environment could also have a massive impact on your health.  Try writing a to-do list for the next day. Jot down everything you need to get done, group and prioritse tasks and allocate blocks of time to complete them. Mark them off as they are done and celebrate your accomplishments.

 Need more help?

In summary, looking after your health first is essential when it comes to being a successful female entrepreneur.  Download my FREE 12 page guide full of more hints and tips on how you can start prioritising you.  Remember starting small, being consistent, and practicing patience and self-compassion means you can develop habits that not only lead to a healthier and happier you but a more efficient and profitable business too. 

If you are female entrepreneur ready to prioritise your health and boost your business why not join my ‘Mind Your Own Business’ Facebook community for motivation, accountability and networking.