If you’ve ever been on a plane and listened to the safety presentation before you depart, you will have heard that you are to put your own mask on before attempting to support anybody else.
In the frantic world of entrepreneurship, where every day is a battle against time, it’s easy for business owners and leaders to be caught up in the whirlwind of the day-to-day running of the business. Amidst the hustle and bustle, the critical lesson we learn from airline safety procedures is “put your mask on first”. This simple, yet profound analogy holds the key to why business owners must prioritise self-care to be effective.
Self-care is not selfish
Many business owners and leaders fall in the trap of believing that focussing on their own wellbeing is a selfish act. They reason that they must dedicate every ounce of energy to their business to ensure it succeeds. I personally and very guilty of this.
However, this mindset is akin to trying to help others on a plane before putting the mask on yourself and of course you are struggling to breathe. So, self-care is critical for you and the business.
Why putting your own mask on first (i.e. self-care) is important?
Business owners and leaders need to take care of themselves before trying to solve every issue that arises for the following reasons:
Health and wellbeing
Understatement of the year – Starting and then running a business is demanding, both physically and mentally. Therefore, neglecting your health can lead to burnout, stress-related illnesses, and reduced productivity.
Prioritising self-care, such as exercise, diet, sleep, and recovery is imperative to ensure you have enough energy and resilience to deal with day-to-day business challenges.
Clear decision making
Exhaustion, overwhelm and sleep deprivation can cloud your judgment (I am guilty of this, particularly by the end of each calendar year). When fatigue sets in, you’re more likely to make decisions that haven’t been thought threw fully. Or you avoid making decisions altogether. Taking time to put your own mask on, enables you to make well-informed decisions for your business.
Lead by example
What kind of culture do you want to build for your business? As the business owner, the buck stops with you when it comes to culture, you set the tone for your team. If you prioritize self-care, your employees are likely to follow suit, fostering a healthier workplace culture.
Longevity and sustainability
I’m sure every business entrepreneur has the dream to build a business that has the potential for longevity and sustainability. However, your business relies on your ability to lead it effectively over the long term.
Neglecting self-care may yield short-term gains, but this approach can lead to burnout and the ultimate downfall of your business.
Innovation and creativity
Innovation and creativity are more likely to be satisfied when your brain is too full or experiencing burnout. Taking breaks and caring for your well-being can recharge your creative juices.
How many times have you produced a great idea for your business when you are on holiday, or at a conference, or at the gym? Many great business ideas come when entrepreneurs step away from the daily grind and allow their minds to wander.
How to prioritise self-care?
I am terrible at prioritising self-care, however, as I get older and “wiser” I have realised that it is a necessity not a privilege. Here are some practical sets to prioritising self-care:
Set boundaries
It is up to you to set your boundaries and then stick to them. Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life means deciding what time is dedicated to work and what time is dedicated to yourself and your loved ones.
Seek support
Do not hesitate to seek support from mentors, coaches, or advisors. Delegate what you can so that you are not doing everything yourself.
Assessing your personal health
Conduct periodical assessments of your physical and mental well-being. Try to recognise signs of stress, burnout, and act promptly. Ask a friend, partner, or family member to be your well-being indicator and call it when they see it.
Exercise and nutrition
Schedule time for exercise and incorporate a balanced diet into your routine. Both good habits will directly impact your energy levels and resilience.
Mindfulness and relaxation
Practice mindfulness techniques and take the time to be mindful of the things you are grateful for. Practise relaxation exercises or do things that help you to relax regularly. This will help with greater mental clarity.
In conclusion, I want to be the first to say, that I wrote this blog to remind me of the things I should be doing. Generally, I am pretty bad at most of them. However, I am writing this blog as I sit in front of a panoramic view of the Canadian ski mountains, feeling on top of the world, relaxed and eager to go for 2024. My moto this year is – “put your own mask on first”.
The oxygen mask principle is a powerful reminder that prioritising your own self-care is not selfish; it’s a strategic imperative for business owners.
By taking care of your physical and mental well-being, you will be better equipped to lead your business to greater heights, make sound and considered decisions, and inspire a culture of well-being within your organisation. A thriving business starts with a thriving business owner or leader. So put your mask on first, and then start helping others.
Give the team at Purple Giraffe a call so we can help you put your mask on first.
