Running your own business can be tough, especially if you’re doing it alone. You probably know people who, from the outside, think it’s all good. Free time, money, and success. Those who do run their own business may well disagree. It can be lonely place sat at your desk.

For me the main issue has always been that the line between work and life can begin to blur. I’m not talking about whole work/life balance here. It’s just that it’s very easy for the business to worm its way into all aspects of you like. When you enjoy something it’s difficult to put it down.

So, if you’ve noticed that you’re not quite yourself. Maybe feeling jaded or a little rough around the edges. Then perhaps you need to take some steps to get your mojo back.

Be Outside & Be Active

No matter what the weather is, go and be outside. Find a bit of nature; a park, locals woods, or riverbank, and go and sit, walk, and think. Science has shown that being in nature help our mental wellbeing. Also, what you do doesn’t need to be a sweaty slog fest. No need for a gym membership either. Just do something for 30 minutes every day. Run, walk, do yoga, swim, or even find a dance class. Anything to get your body moving and the heartrate up a bit and do it outside.

Phones Down!

This is one I try and adopt. I’m not quite there yet, but I’m trying. I’ve deleted the social media and news apps from my phone late last year, because quite frankly there isn’t anything that important on there. If my family or friends are about then the phone goes on silent.

Compartmentalise

When you’re at work, you’re at work. When you doing family stuff, you’re doing that. Try not to let the two mix too much. Again, this isn’t about balance, it’s about being in the moment. Ignoring work is surprisingly difficult, but I would say one thing; if your customer or employer insists that you are always available, ask yourself if they are paying you enough.

Call Not Email

Have you noticed how email seem to be the way people communicate nowadays? Sure, it’s more convenient, and there is a written record of what has been said. But it’s a bit rubbish for building relationships, isn’t it? So instead of sending an email to set up a meeting. Call them. Add a bit of small talk, and get to know people. We have a rule in the office; if the email chain goes past three emails, we’ll call you.

Block Time

Use fixed blocks of time, perhaps 30 minute or 1 hour blocks. Look at your task list and write a task (or number of short tasks) in the block, and only do that during the block. Allocate time for everything; phone calls, lunch, emails, social media, going for a walk, and paying work.

Be Accountable

It’s sometimes easy to let things drift when you don’t have a manager to keep you on track. There is nobody to hold you to account so, find someone who can. Find a family member or friend and tell them your plans and have them ask about progress. Another great way is let your diary be your boss. When you’re blocking your time, actually write it in your diary just like an appointment.