8 rules to prevent total exhaustion - especially in a high-paced startup-founder environment (but not only)
With the new year, good intentions take a new turn, and we are particularly emphasizing health and wellbeing, both physical and mental. We are also trying to avoid unhealthy lifestyles and destructive behavioral patterns.
This is a perfect moment to address the risk of occupational stress, burnout, and fatigue, especially in the startup world, as part of our mental health campaign. In the case of a bootstrapped startup, a much higher workload can be expected, with extreme performance and competitive pressure, scarce remuneration, and limited development opportunities making the startup and private life more difficult. Stamina, a strong will, and a commitment to the business idea are all necessary.
Time pressures, pressure to succeed and perform, long working hours, and heavy workloads can all lead to burnout without us realizing it. This can result in chronic diseases, absenteeism, high staff turnover, reduced customer satisfaction, and decreased efficiency. Eventually, the frustration outweighs the entrepreneur-euphoria and the startup runs the risk of failure.
To prevent this, founders and startups should take proactive steps to reduce stress, such as creating a supportive atmosphere, setting reasonable expectations, and encouraging breaks throughout the day. Additionally, they should prioritize mental health by providing employees with access to counseling and other resources. By taking these steps, we can ensure a healthy, positive, and productive atmosphere.
These 8 golden rules may help you, your team and ultimately your family & friends to avoid the negative consequences of burnout and to live a better, healthier & fulfilling, longer life:
- Set Realistic Expectations: Don't expect too much of yourself or your team. Recognize that you won't be able to do everything you set out to do.
- Take Breaks: Make sure you take regular breaks throughout the day to recharge and relax. You don't have to be working all the time.
- Prioritize: Focus on the tasks that are most important and urgent and prioritize them over the rest. This will help you stay focused and on track.
- Delegate: Learn to delegate tasks to your team members. This will help to spread the workload and will ensure that everyone is working at their full potential.
- Get Enough Sleep & Eat Good Food: Make sure you're getting enough sleep at night. Sleep deprivation can lead to burnout and poor performance. Eat regularly healthy & wholesome foood.
- Exercise: Exercise can be a great way to reduce stress and clear your mind. It can also help to boost your energy levels and productivity.
- Monitor Your Stress Levels: Keep an eye on your stress levels and take the necessary steps to manage it. This could include talking to friends, family, or a therapist.
- Seek Support: Don’t be afraid to seek support from your team or mentors. They can provide valuable advice and help to guide you through any difficult times.
PS: Don't try to trick yourself or override your body & mind's needs with any substances, pharmaceuticals or the like. That doesn't work - at least not in the long run 😉
Are you ready to feel lighter & brighter, more balanced & energized in your new year?
Be wise, be healthy!
