I recently started working in my business full time and it's been hectic, to say the least. I'm a Website and Brand Designer, and I'm juggling several client projects at once. Plus, I'm doing everything on my own when it comes to marketing and content creation. I knew things were going to be busy like this, so I put practices in place before getting started to avoid getting overwhelmed. I still have moments here and there when I feel like I have too much going on but with my wellness practices to come back to, I'm always able to get calm and centered again.
Here are my favorite tips:
1. Be super organized with your client projects
One of the things that can make us feel overwhelmed and all over the place is the lack of organization. I use a free project management tool, called Asana, to list all project tasks and to house all the files for each client that I'm working with. It makes juggling multiple projects at once much easier because I'm able to easily go into each project to see which step is next and clients can easily provide their feedback there. It allows me to avoid wasting time figuring out what tasks I need to complete next.
If you're doing client-focused work, give Asana a try. It's totally free and I promise, you'll wonder how you functioned without it once you get started!
2. Automate tasks whenever you can
I have canned email responses, using a free CRM tool that's connected to my Gmail, called Streak. It saves me a ton of time, so I don't have to manually type out repetitive responses for inquiries or to follow up with people. I also automate my social media posting using Hootsuite and Tailwind for Pinterest. By automating things like this, I have more peace of mind because I know those tasks are already taken care of.
If you find yourself doing repetitive tasks like that, look into systems like Streak, Hootsuite, and Tailwind that can handle those tasks for you. When you're working alone, those tools are much more reasonable (Streak and Hootsuite are free) than hiring an assistant.
3. Take a break during the work day
I know it can be tempting to think you have to work ALL day without taking a break, but I find that breaks actually make me more productive. I love taking walks at a park near my apartment. Being out in nature clears and calms my mind like nothing else! And I sometimes turn on music that I love for a dance break. I always come back from my breaks much happier and clear-minded.
Think of things you enjoy and prioritize them for your break time. You'll come back to your work recharged and ready to finish the day strong!
4. Make cooking healthy meals a priority
Being fueled by healthy food is crucial as a business owner. You have to keep your energy high to complete everything on your to-do list. And healthy food is one of the best ways to do that. I cook once or twice a week, eating leftovers some days to save time. It's relaxing to cook after a long day, plus I know I'm getting some healthy food since I prepared it at home myself. You can even try conveniences like, Hello Fresh or Instacart, if you don't have time to make it to the grocery store.
Try making a list of simple and quick healthy meals that you'll enjoy ahead of time, so during the work week, you can just reference that for meal ideas when making your grocery run.
5. Begin your day with a clear morning routine
I like to set an intention each day that it will be an amazing, wonderful day as soon as I wake up in the morning. I don't check my cell phone until this routine is completed. I start by reading an inspirational book, then I make a short gratitude list, and I pray and meditate. I love starting my day with this because I'm able to intentionally set the mood for the day and I have a clear mind free of worries to begin my work.
Your morning routine can be customized to what makes you feel good. Maybe you go to the gym first thing in the morning or maybe you do a bit of yoga. Do whatever will bring you joy and allow you to start the day beautifully!
I hope these tips help you fight feeling overwhelmed! With a bit of organization and automation along with some wellness tips, you'll be well on your way to maintaining your peace and sanity as a solopreneur.
For more business tips, check out my website at keshiamwhite.com.
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