As business owners, we can put our health on the back burner, especially when managing the day-to-day challenges of business. However, as the year draws to a close, it's crucial to check in with our self-care and wellbeing. Establishing healthy habits now can ensure restful recovery and a strong start to the new year.

Habit 1: Regular Lab Testing

Staying on top of your health requires more than just feeling okay. Regular pathology tests can reveal hidden health issues, ranging from hormonal imbalances to nutrient deficiencies and early signs of inflammation or metabolic disorders. These tests are vital in detecting, and addressing, ‘under the hood’ health problems before they escalate. For small business owners, who often deal with high stress, regular health checks are crucial for maintaining long-term wellbeing and peak performance. Book in time to see your GP and have your pathology tests, and make this a regular yearly, or twice yearly, routine. 

Habit 2: Optimise Nutrition

Diet plays a significant role in how we feel and perform. Fast food may be a convenient option during a busy workday, but it's linked to increased risk of burnout. Preparing meals at home, on the other hand, not only offers better nutritional value but also acts as a stress-relieving activity. Plan your meals to include a variety of nutrients, focusing on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats. This habit is particularly important for small business owners, whose energy, mental clarity and productivity are essential for sustained success. 

Habit 3: Prioritize Sleep – ‘The Power of 8 before 10’

Quality sleep is non-negotiable for high performance. Working on inadequate sleep is akin to working under the influence of alcohol – it impairs judgment and reduces productivity. Aim for 8-9 hours of sleep and establish a routine to be in bed by 10 p.m. This aligns with your natural circadian rhythm, ensuring enough time in deep sleep, which is crucial for cognitive function and physical health. Good sleep is your secret weapon for resilience, processing stressful emotions and decision-making.

Habit 4: Master the Inner Game

Our thoughts have a profound impact on our mental state and performance. Negative thinking, excessive worrying, and picturing worst-case scenarios can lower your mood and undermine your business performance. It can also disrupt hormonal balance due to increased stress levels. 

The best you can, let go of repetitive thinking and escape thought traps such as catarophising and zoning in on problems. We do our best problem-solving through a clear and peaceful mind, not a busy one. If you’re still thinking about work when you get home, you have too much on your mind. 

Developing a resilient mindset helps you navigate business stresses more effectively.

Habit 5: Stay Active

Regular exercise is vital for both mental and physical health. Often our work involves sitting down for most of the day, and our bodies were not designed for this. Incorporate movement into your daily routine. Strength training is essential as it helps in maintaining muscle mass and bone density, which are crucial as we age. Walking, the simplest form of exercise, is highly effective and doubles as an opportunity to get some sunshine and vitamin D. If you don’t have an exercise routine already in place, make that happen over the holiday period.

Bonus Habit: Cultivate a Support Network

Running a small business can be isolating. Building a network of peers, mentors, and professionals is not just good for business; it’s good for your health. Find your network groups, or create one yourself. The regular interaction and being able to share your experiences, provides emotional support, reduces stress, and offers new perspectives on business challenges.

As we gear up to enter a new year, let's remember that our health and wellbeing are the bedrock of our business success. Implementing these habits can lead to improved energy, sharper mental acuity, and a more balanced approach to business and life. Remember, taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity esp for business owners.