There are few topics more deserving to be written about regarding entrepreneurship than your physical and mental health. Business founders have to deal with the incredibly draining mental and physical toll of running a small business.
One characteristic typical of a small business is that it tasks the founder too much for its success. Said another way, nothing happens unless the founder makes it happen, and if the founder falls ill, it could doom a new product launch, for example.
Even though I have capable and talented colleagues, I do get concerned about getting run down. I have taken heed by reviewing lifestyle and food choices to reduce the potential for missing any part of my schedule (personal and professional). I want to share this because it has made a positive difference for me, and I believe it would for anyone who stays within the spirit of these suggestions.
- Regular exercise (running/swimming/biking) — for my physical health and overall stress reduction.
- Reading, in particular, non-business books — for my mental health and an attempt at being more well-rounded.
- Sitting down for family dinner at least twice a week (would love to do more) — for my spiritual health and balance.
- Weekend naps — for my physical health to recharge the batteries (sleep during the week is hard to come by).
- Disconnecting from the digital age when with the family — this is particularly tough for me and one goal I strive to improve on.
- Eating healthy and keeping your weight under control — this has made a big difference for me.
- Eat something for breakfast — you don’t want to go into lunch famished and make bad food choices.
- Eat vegetables and protein at every meal — protein will control your hunger longer.
- Drink plenty of water — good hydration is imperative.
- Portion control — I eat half of my meal and wait to see how I feel before I continue.
- Avoid fast foods.
- Reduce processed foods — stay away from boxes and packages.
- Prepare meals and snacks the night before or on the weekend when you have more time.
I realize that this is a major departure from what you might expect in a business article, but let’s face it, everyone, whether a corporate executive or small company founder, is being pushed to the limits both mentally and physically. This is not too unlike an athlete, so I would encourage you to start thinking this way to be at your best when your best is required.
Pay attention to your mind and your body. I hope you consider incorporating some of these suggestions into your daily and weekly routine, and that you identify healthy habits that work to energize you.
Jeffrey Kadlic is co-founder and managing partner of Evolution Capital Partners LLC, a private equity fund investing growth equity nationwide in Second Stage Companies. Jeffrey is an alumnus of Crain’s Forty under 40 and an EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ finalist.
