Self-Care for Small Business Owners: Why It Matters and How to Start

This blog post is part of Money Mentors’ F.R.E.S.H. Program, proudly sponsored by TD Bank. 
 

 
Running a small business is no small task. From marketing to sales, accounting to customer service, small business owners often carry it all on their shoulders. With so many responsibilities competing for attention, it’s easy to put self-care on the back burner. But here’s the truth: taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury, it’s a business strategy.

At Money Mentors, we know firsthand how demanding entrepreneurship can be. Our CEO, Stacy Yanchuk Oleksy, put it best: “You are your business. Your well-being impacts your business.” When you’re exhausted, stressed, or burnt out, decision-making suffers, motivation dips, and your business feels it too.

The good news? With small daily steps, you can protect your mental and physical health and give your business the best chance to thrive.

Why Self-Care Matters for Business Owners

When you’re your own boss, your energy, clarity, and creativity fuel your business. Without regular self-care, burnout becomes a real risk. Stress and overwork don’t just affect your personal life; they can directly influence the success of your business.

Think of self-care as a long-term investment in your most valuable business asset: YOU!

Practical Daily Self-Care Tips

Here are a few ways to make self-care a daily habit:

• Set boundaries around your day. Create a clear start and finish time for work, then allow yourself personal time.
• Take breaks and move. Stretch, stand up, or go for a short walk. Even five minutes makes a difference.
• Breathe deeply. Stress often shows up in shallow breathing. Pause, inhale slowly, and reset.
• Stay connected. Talk to at least one person each day. For solopreneurs, especially, human connection helps refill your energy.
• Eat well and stay hydrated. Think of yourself as a “houseplant with complicated feelings”; snacks, water, and nutritious meals matter.
• Prioritize sleep. Your brain and body need rest to recharge for tomorrow’s challenges.
• Celebrate wins. Running a business is tough. Acknowledge your progress, big or small.

Mental Health Strategies to Support You

Beyond daily routines, here are ways to protect your mental health:

• Practice mindfulness or meditation. Free apps can guide you through short, simple practices.
• Talk it out. Connect with a mentor, coach, friend, or fellow business owner.
• Journal your thoughts. Writing helps clear mental clutter and reduce stress.
• Make time for joy. Whether it’s a hobby, laughter, or music, do what fills you up.
• Seek professional support. Counselling or therapy isn’t a weakness; it’s a strength.
• Set boundaries. Remember: “No” is a full sentence. Protect your time and energy so you can say yes to what matters most.

Protecting Your Time and Energy

Small business owners often feel pressure to always be “on.” But setting boundaries is essential:

• Limit screen time after hours.
• Communicate availability clearly with clients.
• Value your time and expertise, and don’t give it away for free.

Knowing your worth and protecting your non-work time ensures you have the energy to show up fully when it counts.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, you are your business’s greatest asset. By prioritizing your health, you’re also prioritizing the success of your business. Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s smart, strategic, and necessary.

Take small steps daily: go for a walk, breathe deeply, connect with others, or jot down your thoughts. These little acts protect your well-being and strengthen your ability to grow and sustain your business.

Remember: you can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself, because we all need what your business brings to the world.

Have questions?

Need more information or want to talk to a certified financial counsellor for peace of mind? Let us help.
Call 1-888-294-0076 or fill out this form to speak with a certified financial counsellor. It’s free for all Albertans.