Wellbeing tips for small business owners and lone workers

Working as a freelancer, entrepreneur, sole trader or small business owner offers freedom and flexibility along with unique challenges. Without the structure of a traditional workplace, it is easy to fall into patterns that can negatively impact your physical and mental health. 

According to research, 70% of entrepreneurs feel guilty taking time off from their businesses, even during annual leave. 

Statistics show that irregular incomes, blurred work and home life boundaries, a lack of employment benefits and long working hours can have a negative impact on the mental health of freelancers and the self-employed. 

By prioritising your physical and mental health, setting boundaries and fostering connections, you can create a more sustainable and fulfilling work life.

Entrepreneurs and sole traders should consider the advice of Anne Brookes, who set up Birmingham professional coaching business Canalside Life Coach on her own in July 2023. 

Anne identifies the challenges felt by those striking out to work on their own or build a new enterprise. She says: “People working on their own can end up feeling overwhelmed, particularly a few months after setting up, as the tsunami of activities and decisions becomes a daily reality. 

“It’s easy to feel demotivated when you’re tired, have had a difficult experience or have had no response to an offer you’ve put out. You can feel very isolated, and that’s when doubts creep in. You need other people to talk to.”

Anne encourages solo workers to build as many links as possible. “Use professional associations, masterclasses or meetups related to your field, anywhere that positive, like-minded people will be. 

“There are many activities online but try to meet others in person too; the friendships tend to last. 

“Attending free Business Growth West Midlands webinars for small business owners has made a tremendous difference to me, and I connect with people on LinkedIn afterwards. 

“They give you different perspectives, which is important because it’s easy to get caught up in your own head.”

The impact of remote solo work can creep up on people, says Anne. “Working alone, you can end up working seven days a week if you’re not careful, so set boundaries and priorities, both for your business and yourself. 

“The Pomodoro Technique, which involves doing focused work during 25-minute intervals, can be great for time management. 

“Try to have at least one day or two half days when you do something fun and relaxing. If you’re tired mentally or ill, you will have diminishing returns on concentration, focus and energy. You must invest in yourself first.” 

How Business Growth West Midlands can help 

Business Growth West Midlands offers a range of support for small business owners and lone workers. 

We can help you find co-working spaces, such as Eagle Labs in Birmingham, IGNITE in Wolverhampton and the Sandwell Start-Up Hub in Oldbury, or point you in the direction of mentoring opportunities.

We offer a variety of free events, webinars and training for business leaders and entrepreneurs, which can help you meet other people. 

We also have a network of Business Advisers who can offer guidance on support programmes, funding and business growth resources, so you don’t have to feel alone. Request free support from a business adviser here. 

Taking on staff?

For those entrepreneurs whose businesses have grown to employ others, managing the new responsibilities of working with other people requires focus on wellbeing. 

If you are building a team, the West Midlands Combined Authority Thrive at Work programme supports the creation of workplaces that promote employee health and wellbeing. 

By offering criteria and guidelines, it aims to help businesses become better employers as well as improve productivity by keeping the workforce well. 

The programme is funded by the UK Government and is free to organisations across the West Midlands region. It is open to organisations of any sector and suitable for those that employ five or more employees. 

More tips to help you stay well  

Prioritise your physical health

• Establish a routine by setting regular sleep and wake times to regulate your body's internal clock. 
• Integrate physical activity into your day, such as stretching, walking or short workouts.
  Safeguard your mental wellbeing
• Define clear work hours and stick to them to prevent overworking.
• Connect with peers or mentors to share experiences and gain perspective.

Make time for yourself

• Incorporate short breaks throughout your workday to recharge.
• Engage in hobbies or activities that bring you joy outside of work.

Avoid burnout

• Be aware of symptoms like constant fatigue, irritability or lack of motivation.
• Set realistic goals and break larger projects into manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed.

Stay motivated

• Acknowledge and reward yourself for meeting milestones. 
• Engage in professional development to keep skills sharp and stay inspired.  

Combat isolation

• Participate in online forums or local groups related to your field.
• Consider working from shared spaces to interact with others. 

Further resources 

Self-employment association Ipse offers advice on mental wellbeing and physical wellbeing. 

Charity Mental Health UK and mental health specialist Headspace offer tips on burnout. 

Charity Mind offers tips for staying mentally healthy at work. 

Remember, taking care of yourself isn't a luxury – it's a necessity for long-term success.