Hey there,
It’s one of those days. You know the ones I’m talking about. The days where every task feels like a mountain, and my energy levels are scraping the bottom of the barrel. Running a business is exhilarating, but let’s be real—it can also be incredibly draining.
Today, I just don’t have the energy for it. And that’s okay.
I’ve learned that it’s important to recognize these moments and take action, rather than pushing through and burning out. Here’s what I do when the grind gets too tough:
Self-help:
1. Take a Break
Sometimes, the best thing you can do is step away. I take a walk, catch a quick nap, or dive into a hobby I love. It’s amazing how a bit of distance can help reset the mind.
2. Prioritize Ruthlessly
When I’m low on energy, I focus on what’s most critical. What’s the one thing that will move the needle today? I tackle that and give myself permission to leave the rest for later.
3. Delegate When Possible
I remind myself that I don’t have to do everything. Delegating tasks to my team or hiring a freelancer for specific jobs can lighten the load significantly.
4. Break Down Tasks
Big tasks can be overwhelming, especially when energy is low. I break them into smaller, manageable chunks. Completing these smaller tasks gives me a sense of accomplishment and helps build momentum.
5. Reconnect with My Why
I take a moment to remember why I started this journey. Thinking about the passion and purpose behind Pineapple Builder can reignite my motivation and remind me of the bigger picture.
6. Practice Self-care
Eating well, getting enough sleep, and exercising are non-negotiables. My physical health directly impacts my energy and productivity, so I make sure to take care of myself.
7. Seek Support
Talking to a friend, mentor, or coach can provide new perspectives and much-needed encouragement. I’m not in this alone, and leaning on my support network is crucial.
8. Workout
Surprisingly, hitting the gym, bike or doing a quick workout at home can elevate my energy levels. Physical activity boosts my mood and helps me feel more capable of tackling work afterward.
If I absolutely must work, I focus on the bare essentials. I save the demanding tasks for when I have more energy and just keep things ticking over.
Things I don't do:
Now, let’s dive into what I avoid doing when I’m feeling drained. These are the things I steer clear of because they only make things worse in the long run.
1. Drinking More Coffee
It’s tempting to reach for another cup of coffee when I’m exhausted, but I know it’s a trap. More caffeine might give a short-term boost, but it ultimately drains my body and adrenaline levels. The crash that follows leaves me feeling even more depleted, and recovery takes longer.
2. Expecting Others to Do My Job
It’s crucial to delegate, but I never expect my team to pick up all my slack. They have their own responsibilities and expecting them to do my job would be unfair and unsustainable. Teamwork is about supporting each other, not offloading all my tasks onto someone else.
3. Working Longer Hours
When I’m feeling low on energy, working longer hours is counterproductive. It’s better to work smarter, not harder. Pushing myself to stay at the desk only leads to diminishing returns and greater burnout.
4. Ignoring My Body
Ignoring physical signs of fatigue or stress is a big no-no. I’ve learned to listen to my body and take breaks when needed. Ignoring these signals can lead to more serious health issues and longer recovery times.
5. Comparing Myself to Others
It’s easy to look at other entrepreneurs and feel like I’m not doing enough. But comparing myself to others only adds unnecessary pressure and stress. Everyone’s journey is different, and it’s important to focus on my own path and progress.
6. Skipping Meals
When I’m busy, it’s tempting to skip meals or eat junk food. But poor nutrition only exacerbates fatigue and impacts my overall well-being. I make sure to eat balanced meals to keep my energy levels stable.
Avoiding these pitfalls helps me manage my energy better and keeps me on track, even during the toughest days. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity for sustaining the startup journey.
Remmber
Today is tough, but tomorrow can be better. It’s all part of the journey. Running a startup is a marathon, not a sprint, and it’s okay to pace myself.
So, if you’re feeling the same way, give yourself a break. Take care of yourself. The work will still be there when you’re ready to tackle it with renewed energy.
