Physical and mental wellbeing is at the forefront of everyone’s mind because of the pandemic, but when you own a small business, it can become challenging to find the time to make your health and fitness a priority.
As small-business owners, we have many competing priorities and let’s face it, we all have those days that we are tempted to cancel that gym session or “just can’t be bothered”. But exercise has been scientifically proven to not only keep your body healthy but also help improve your sleep, reduce stress, improve your mood, help you relax and improve your overall wellness – and that’s got to be good for you and your business.
Here are some benefits of staying active and suggestions on how to incorporate some exercise into your weekly routine.
Block out your calendar
You’ve heard it before – what gets scheduled gets done. Block out training time in your calendar each week and make it a non-negotiable part of your routine. You wouldn’t cancel a meeting with a big customer – don’t cancel your workout sessions! Carve out time in your calendar each week, book your sessions and stick to it. Your commitment to yourself is worth it.
Make it fun!
Find movement that works for you and you enjoy – it might be a brisk walk, or it might be an intensive weight session. Why not book into a regular class at your local gym or club? Even better – take a friend or colleague! The most important thing: do it for fun, enjoyment and health, not just the abs of steel. The more you enjoy it, the more you will stick to your routine.
Physical sweat helps you break out a mental sweat
A workout doesn’t mean you’ll burn all your energy. Exercising increases your energy levels, boosts stamina and fights fatigue – giving you the boost you need to power through your busy days. A good training session or even a light walk during your lunch break, can also help reduce stress, sharpen your memory, and help with concentration. Most business owners are spending more and more time at either their desks or inside their own home, so exercising can help stretch out your body and improve circulation – in turn stimulating your brain function.
Find a qualified fitness professional
If you want to get moving, but you’re not sure where to start, finding a qualified fitness professional can help set you on the right track. Whether you partner up with a personal trainer or join a group training club, working with fitness professionals will ensure that you’re getting the greatest return on investment for your precious time.
Lead by example
Fitness and health shouldn’t just be a priority for you, it should also be a priority for your employees. More and more people are assessing their lives and values and re-considering their careers. Helping your employees take care of their own health can also help improve not just their overall health and wellbeing but reduce sickness and absenteeism, encourage higher work satisfaction, boost motivation and encourage a healthier work/life balance. Consider organising group fitness sessions for your staff or help them with the cost of gym membership.
Don’t let your health deteriorate because it’s so low down your priority list. We know it can be difficult when you’re running your own business. But following these simple steps you can kick start your routine, get moving and start seeing the benefits to yourself – and your business.
