How to Avoid Burnout When You’re Running a Business (And Why Self-Care Is Essential)

Running your own business can feel like a never-ending rollercoaster, right? One moment you’re riding high on productivity, and the next, you’re drained, overwhelmed, and wondering how you’ll ever keep up. It’s all too easy to get caught up in the hustle and forget about your own well-being – but here’s the hard truth: burnout is real. And if you’re not careful, it can quickly derail the business you’ve worked so hard to build.

Being an Assistant for several years, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly the pressures of running a business can take their toll. Whether you’re juggling multiple clients, managing projects, or simply trying to stay on top of endless admin tasks, it can feel like there’s always something else demanding your attention. But here’s the thing: without taking care of yourself, your business can’t thrive.

So, how do we avoid burnout and keep that balance between our professional and personal lives? Let’s dive into some tips that will keep you mentally and physically healthy while running a business.

1. Set Boundaries (And Stick to Them)

As a business owner, it can be tempting to say yes to every opportunity, respond to emails at all hours, or take on more clients than you can handle. But here’s the thing: setting boundaries is key to maintaining your mental health and ensuring your business stays on track.

For me, this means setting clear working hours and sticking to them. No more answering emails after 7 pm (unless it's an emergency, of course). I also make sure to set aside time during the week to do things I love outside of work – whether that’s a weekend walk, catching up with friends, or getting lost in my sketchbook. The work will always be there, but your health should come first.

2. Don’t Be Afraid to Delegate

One of the biggest mistakes business owners make is trying to do everything themselves. As a Virtual Assistant, this is a lesson I’ve learned both personally and professionally: delegation is a superpower. There’s only so much time in a day, and trying to wear every hat can quickly lead to exhaustion.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Whether it’s hiring a VA (hint, hint), outsourcing specific tasks, or working with freelancers, delegating can free up your time to focus on the things that really matter – and allow you to recharge. After all, your business needs a healthy and energised you to function at its best.

3. Make Time for What Fuels You

Running a business can often feel like a never-ending checklist – but if you’re constantly in ‘work mode’, you’ll burn out fast. One of the best things you can do is carve out time for activities that recharge you.

For creatives, the act of creating can be incredibly therapeutic. Even if it’s not directly related to your business, making time to engage in something you’re passionate about can help you reconnect with yourself and your vision. Balance is about having time for both the work and the things that bring you joy.

4. Exercise – It’s Not Just About the Body, It’s About the Mind

As much as I hate to admit it, I’ve learned the hard way that exercise is crucial for both physical and mental health. When I was an in-office Assistant, I’d spend hours at my desk, pushing through tiredness and skipping lunch. But over time, I realised that exercise is one of the best ways to boost productivity and reduce stress.

Whether it’s a brisk walk around the block, a quick yoga session, or a full-on workout, moving your body helps clear your mind, boost your energy, and lower anxiety levels. And the best part? It doesn’t have to be a major time commitment. Just 20-30 minutes a day can make a world of difference. So, get moving – your business (and your body) will thank you!

5. Rest Isn’t a Luxury, It’s a Necessity

In a world that often glorifies hustle, rest can seem like an afterthought. But the truth is, rest is essential for long-term success. There’s no productivity without recovery, no creativity without downtime. Taking a break is not a sign of weakness – it’s a sign of self-awareness and commitment to longevity in your business.

For me, this means taking regular breaks throughout the day, scheduling days off (no emails allowed!), and making sure I’m getting enough sleep. Sleep is the ultimate reset button – when I’m well-rested, I’m more focused, more creative, and, honestly, a better business owner.

6. Don’t Forget to Celebrate the Wins

It’s easy to get caught up in the “what’s next” mentality, always pushing towards the next goal without taking a moment to celebrate the progress you’ve made. But small wins deserve recognition, too! Whether you’ve just signed a new client, completed a major project, or simply survived a hectic week – celebrate it.

For me, I love treating myself to a sweet treat or spending time with loved ones to acknowledge how far I’ve come. Celebrating the small victories not only boosts your mood but helps you stay motivated when things get tough.

Final Thoughts: Embrace Self-Care for a Healthy, Thriving Business

At the end of the day, the key to avoiding burnout when running a business is balance. As someone who's worked as an Assistant for big companies and high-level executives for a very long time, I've seen the impact of neglecting self-care plenty of times – the stress, the anxiety, the exhaustion. But when we prioritise our own well-being, we’re able to show up more effectively for our clients, our business, and most importantly, ourselves.

Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint. By taking the time to care for yourself – physically, mentally, and emotionally – you’re setting yourself up for success in the long run. So go ahead, take that break, enjoy your hobbies, and remember: your business will flourish when you do.