Self-care Checklist for Business Owners

Successfully running a business requires all hands on deck and let’s face it, there isn’t a lot of downtime. When you’re putting so much effort into making sure everyone else stays well, it’s easy to let your own wellness slip through the cracks.

We looked to the Mindbody One community to learn what other business owners do to stay grounded through the ups and downs. We also asked, “What compliment would you give yourself for getting through the last few years?” Their responses were moving and relatable.

Here are a few of our favorite tips, and the encouragement they shared, for those times when life feels busier than usual:

Participate in wellness—whatever that means to you

You deserve to take your favorite classes and to stay on top of your wellness routine, not just provide them for others. Consider this a gentle nudge to schedule a pottery class, book a massage, or try out that new workout. It’s important to practice what you preach—by taking care of yourself, you can take care of your clients better.

Simply put, you own a wellness business because you're passionate about health and self-care. Loving what you do is a key factor in managing a successful business, but it’s also important to keep your own health top of mind. Having hobbies and activities you love outside of your job is a great way to create clear boundaries between work and pleasure. Time for self-expression, creativity, and doing things that bring you authentic joy (without monetizing them) is a huge part of self-love.

Mindbody One Champion and founder of B Well Consulting Chris Beer encourages us to remember “You are a good friend,” so treat yourself like one! Enjoy being a beginner in a new class or reignite your passion for a hobby that you may have strayed away from due to lack of time, or maybe even schedule that much needed (and deserved) vacation. Having fun is an act of self-care––and will help you come back to your business ready to give it your all.

Schedule some “unplugged time”

As impossible as it may feel, dedicate time to step away from checking your email and your electronics. Book some “unplugged time” on your calendar to keep yourself accountable. When you’re available 24/7, decompressing can seem completely out of reach, but setting aside some time to step away from the notifications, the requests, and the urge to respond immediately is the best way to ground yourself in the present moment. Even being unavailable for just 10 minutes a day can make a huge difference in how you feel throughout the workday. You’ll feel more refreshed and energized––which keeps you bringing your best when you get back to your keyboard.

Get support from your community

Being a leader can sometimes feel isolating. Each day presents you with new challenges, and it may be hard to remember that others are experiencing similar situations. If this resonates, think about joining Mindbody One—a community that brings together thousands of wellness business owners and managers just like you, all offering support and collaboration. Finding your niche community can support you through the natural ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

And remember, it’s okay to ask for help. A crucial element of self-care is leaning on those around you and letting them help you carry the weight of responsibility. Your network is here to help.

Give yourself encouragement like you would your best friend

We’re all doing our best. Showing up for others in a time when health and wellness are needed more than ever deserves to be recognized.

It’s important to pause and take a moment to give yourself a compliment for all that you do—especially over the past few years. Mindbody One Champion and owner of The Peaceful Peacock Katie Donzanti notably reminds us, "You made a difference in a sea of uncertainty.”

We hope you use these tips to help refill your cup so you can continue bringing wellness to a world that desperately needs it. As Mindbody One Champion and founder of Body Evolutions Fitness Sonia Lopez says, “You are a badass and don’t you ever forget it.” We appreciate you!