How often do you incorporate self-care into your life? Once a month, once a week? Well, friend, I want you to start practicing a form of self-care every day. That’s right! Because let’s be real, when it comes to running a business, it can be hard. So many people are in the mindset that if they don’t work sunrise to sundown they won’t grow or be successful.

WRONG! Your business isn’t going to crumble if you walk away for a day or a weekend.

Spending all of your waking hours behind a computer or running around will only leave you exhausted and burnt out. Taking care of yourself, even in little ways, will actually GROW your business and benefit your clients more. And no, I’m not saying you need to do a facemask and bath bomb every night, I promise.

Here are some ways that I love to incorporate self-care into my every day:

Morning Routine

The first and possibly most important way I take care of myself is with my morning routine. As a creative entrepreneur and introvert, starting the day with time to myself is crucial. It allows you to: stay aligned with the bigger picture you have for your life, check-in and honour your energy and emotions and get centered and focused on the day ahead, come what may.

A morning routine will look different for everyone, but my favourite ways to start my morning include meditation, journaling, reading, my workout and of course, I can’t skip breakfast!

Taking Breaks

One of my personal favourites, scheduled breaks! I always make sure to have one full hour in the middle of my day for lunch. This time helps me reset after a busy morning and get ready to tackle my afternoon. If you don’t have the time for a full hour, a half-hour lunch or multiple shorter breaks can work instead. Either way, just make sure you’re not working!

No really – no phone, no emails, notta. Just you, your good eats and maybe even your dog or nature. You get to decide how you live out your best life!

Writing

I mentioned this above but taking just 10 minutes a day to write can make such a difference. I prefer to include journaling in my morning routine, but your lunch break or afternoon break could be the perfect fit too. If you’re new to journaling or a little unsure where to start, here are five of my favourite journal prompts:

Today, I am feeling … about … because …
The magic I’m calling in this week is …
I’m proud of myself for …
Today, I really appreciate … (experience/person/thing/yourself) because …
I’m grateful for … because …

Fresh Air and Exercise

Depending on the weather, stepping out for a walk in the fresh air is another great form of self-care! Did you know that walking is one of the best ways to get grounded, stay mindful and stay in a high energetic state? Listen to your favourite playlist, pop in a podcast, or just enjoy the silence and sounds of nature on your walk. This is an especially good one for people who sit at a computer or desk all day, in case your Apple watch isn’t already reminding you to get moving!

Evening Skincare Routine

When I say skincare routine, it doesn’t have to be an elaborate 8 step process. Sure a quick wash and moisturize is nice, but taking a few extra steps is good for your skin, and great for your mind. How does a skincare routine affect your mind?

By showing up for yourself, and continuing small daily habits, you are increasing your self-confidence in completing the bigger goals you have set for yourself and your business. Change always starts small!

Remember that taking care of yourself also means taking care of your business. Without you it wouldn’t run, so always make sure you’re filling your cup first (like the oxygen mask on a plane situation). If you have any other ways you incorporate self-care into your day, share them with me in the comments!