How to Take a Break as a Creative Entrepreneur to Avoid Burnout
You know that feeling when you’ve been on your feet for hours or days, and the only thing you want to do is sit down? I can’t tell you how many times in my life I’ve felt like this. As a creative entrepreneur, it’s easy to get caught up in the work we have to do, not taking time for ourselves.
In addition, what about our health? Our well-being? These are just as important as getting our work done. Burnout is a real problem that creative entrepreneurs face. Many of us struggle with taking breaks, and we end up working ourselves into the ground. God’s word reminds us:
It is senseless for you to work so hard from early morning until late at night, fearing you will starve to death; for God wants his loved ones to get their proper rest. (Psalm 127:2)
In today’s post, I’ll be sharing with you how to rest and reset your creativity so you can avoid burnout and return to your projects refreshed.
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Changing your perception about taking a break can help you find balance as a creative entrepreneur.
I know many creative entrepreneurs who never take a break from work and refuse to disconnect. Collapsing at the end of every day isn’t healthy for any individual; creative entrepreneurs must balance work and rest. Tell yourself it’s okay to take a break when you need one. Ask God to give you the strength to let go, especially when you need a break.
Schedule dedicated time to rest and refresh.
Set aside dates on your calendar for vacation time or mental health days. If you work with an office team, let them know which times you will be out of the office and share any specific instructions about how they should proceed in your absence. Add time with God to your daily schedule. If you only have a few minutes, read scriptures or a daily devotional.
Figure out the type of rest you need before taking a break.
There are different types of rest. If you’ve been waking up early and going to bed late, you may need physical rest. After launching a product that took months to develop, you may need mental rest. If you’re feeling disconnected from God, you may need spiritual rest that allows you time to pray and fast. Once you figure out the type of rest you need, plan your break around this type of rest.
Create an “idea box” for writing your thoughts and ideas
One of the great things about being a creative entrepreneur is that inspiration can strike any time. During your break, if an idea pops in your head, put it in your “idea box.” Your idea box can be a notebook or Post-It notes. When you have an idea, jot it down quickly, then return to what you were doing (which, hopefully, is nothing).
Use the downtime to finally complete projects you’ve been putting off.
If you want to take a break from your business, but you don’t want to disconnect your brain from all forms of work completely, perhaps you should complete a household project. For example, if you always wanted to tidy up the Marie Kondo way, your downtime may be a perfect opportunity to organize your clothes or books. But don’t overdo it. Your break should not be overwhelming or exhausting. Nor should it focus on working too hard.
Don’t forget to include exercise during your downtime.
Whether you decide to take a break for one day or two weeks, don’t forget to include exercise. Even if you only have 30 minutes, add at least one workout to your day off. Research shows exercise improves body image, self-esteem, and mental health. You don’t have to sign up for a turbo cycling class. If possible, go for a walk or play outside with your kiddos.
Have fun!
In trying to get away from the day-to-day grind of your business, remember why you took a break. Don’t add to your stress by adding a bunch of new projects. Instead, have fun on your day off. Play games, watch movies, spend time with friends and family.
It’s easy to forget that we all need downtime. But, when you take a break from your hectic work schedule and focus on yourself for a change, it can do wonders for your productivity. Hopefully, the tips outlined here help get you started. So, don’t be afraid to schedule time away from the office or your business. You deserve a break. Let me know what works best for you.
