Take Time To Rest and Be More Productive

Relaxation after a busy day is a real challenge for many business owners. Tiredness causes mistakes, inattention, frustration and disorganization; in turn prompting more long hours that exacerbate the problem. Business owners who are well-rested are not just more productive, they inspire better relationships with clients and colleagues.

1. Avoid invalidating a day off by opening a briefcase, switching on a computer, visiting the office or reading your diary. The objective of a day off is to get totally away from the business.
2. Employ a cleaner so that your home is clean and tidy. Do not waste time off by doing chores. Similarly, can you delegate laundry, ironing and shopping?
3. When you want to switch-off, put the phone on an answering machine that you cannot hear.
4. Go to bed earlier (or later) so that the timing of your sleep is ideal for you. Rather than compromise with other family members, ask for their support if necessary.
5. Prioritize the elimination of all debt, except that secured on property. Cut expenses if necessary to ensure that you live within your income. Financial worry is a frequent cause of sleepless nights.
6. Have regular checkups with your doctor, optician, audiologist and dentist.
7. Review the newspapers and magazines that you read. Are these really inspiring or relaxing, or are you bingeing on a diet of depressing material?
8. Avoid watching television, unless you have a specific program you want to watch. Random TV is chewing gum for the eyes, and contributes little to quality of life.
9. Clear the clutter from your life. Whether it’s old files or old clothes, it takes up space both in our heads and our lives. If you are in any doubt about this, just choose one room, clear it, and watch what happens!
10. It may be difficult to adjust to a vacation if they are too infrequent. Plan at least 4 weeks of holiday every year, and put the dates in your diary.
11. Make amends to anyone you have hurt, damaged or offended. This will allow you to reclaim the hours wasted on feeling guilty.
12. Spend at least 20 minutes every day in deep relaxation, meditation, or other peaceful or spiritual activities. These give perspective, and make all other activities more enjoyable.
13. Before settling down to relax or play, remove all traces of work from your lounge, bedroom, or other immediate environment.
14. Invest in labor-saving devices for your home and (if possible) employ someone to use them!