Entrepreneurs are often told to take care of themselves, but that's usually after being told to work harder and never miss an opportunity. Running a business takes a lot. We know that's not an understatement, given the popular belief that overworking is what gets you where you want to go. The idea that doing more will somehow lead to rest or success is a myth because business owners often get stuck in the same loop, chasing peace through effort.
In this blog, we'll talk about why that myth won't push you further than you already are.
1. Why working more isn't always working better
Productivity isn't always about volume. Filling your time with nonstop activity can move you forward, but it also comes with a lack of clarity. Without space to think, every task starts to feel equally urgent. You lose perspective. That's how you end up spending hours tweaking things that won't move the needle.
The ability to slow down and choose what to focus on is a stronger skill than the ability to muster yourself through a bloated to-do list. If you want to work at your hundred percent, doing the right things at the right time with a clear mind will build more momentum than ever before. You do not need to earn rest!
2. Rest does not equal laziness
Our bodies aren't designed for constant output. Just like our muscles when we work out, our brains need time to rest and get ready for the next day. Even machines require downtime to reset, yet we treat our own bodies differently. The idea that rest is a reward will undoubtedly push you to the brink of burnout.
Rest is part of the process of being your best entrepreneurial self. Taking a break, especially with sleep, is the brain's way of clearing out metabolic waste. These include toxins linked to cognitive decline. Sleep also strengthens synaptic connections (links between neurons that carry and store info) formed during the day which directly supports memory, learning and problem solving. Who knows, maybe the most productive thing you can do today happens while lying down.
3. Build a business that fits your life
A business should give you freedom, not just income. Yet many entrepreneurs end up creating systems that trap themselves. Endless client calls or busy schedules with little rest will leave you no room to breathe. Somewhere along the way, it's easy to lose sight of your original purpose of starting your own business.
The real magic in building a business is that it should reflect your values, your energy and your vision. The end result might look blurry at times, but that's okay. Your decisions should protect your time and sanity. You're the boss, and you get to design it your way. Make it fun. Make it flexible. Most importantly, make it something you want to wake up to and work on.
Self-care fuels everything you want to achieve. Putting your well-being first will empower everything about you to take on the giant of entrepreneurship. Rest and focus become your secret weapons and self-care becomes your best ally. If you're interested in ways to prioritize yourself, check out this blog for wellness ideas your business can implement or explore some mental exercises to get your mind ready for work here.
Author: Gary Wong
💬 What does real rest look like for you?
Feel free to let us know in the comments below!
📚 Shining a spotlight for your business's BTS can bring you success! Read here.
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About Stingray Advisory Group LLC: Stingray Advisory Group LLC is based in Grand Rapids,
Michigan, and is a proud member of People First Economy and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. We help businesses thrive. By improving our client's sales over 60%, reducing their expenses and boosting their engagement by 40% or more, we enable our clients to refocus on what they love.
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