Take a Break – Your Business Needs You!
Our blogs are usually about how to take care of your business better—how to optimize, strategize, and grow. But today, this blog is just for you—how to take care of yourself better.
Because you are important.
What would your business be without you? Running on fumes, making decisions while exhausted, stuck in constant overwhelm? That’s not the leader your company needs—and it’s certainly not the life you signed up for when you started this business.
The good news? Taking care of yourself doesn’t have to mean a two-week vacation or a full day at the spa (though, hey, if you can, go for it). Sometimes, all you need is 30 minutes to reset, refocus, and recharge—right in your office.
Here’s how to do it.
Book a 30-Minute Meeting With Yourself
Yes, that’s right, with just yourself. And if you wouldn’t cancel a meeting with an important client, why cancel on yourself? Block out 30 minutes in your calendar as a non-negotiable appointment. No emails, no interruptions.
If you just “can’t” take a whole 30 minutes for yourself during your busy day, how much time could you “take off”? 15 minutes? 10? 5? If you can only take 5 minutes, then start with that. Because, seriously, who will notice if you’re unavailable and not to be disturbed for 5 minutes? I (Peter) had to use that logic on myself when I started my routine.
Just take some time to recharge. What you do with it is up to you, but here’s a simple stress reset routine to help you make the most of it. Use one or more if these options, in any combination that works for you. There are lots of examples here for you. If some don’t work, then try others. Trust me, eventually you’ll settle on a good little routine for you.
Option 1: Move Your Body (5-15 minutes)
Stress often manifests physically—tight shoulders, stiff back, clenched jaw. Loosen up with one of these quick movement options:
Stretching – A few simple stretches at your desk can relieve tension and improve circulation. Focus on your neck, shoulders, and lower back. At least bring your shoulders back down from your earlobes.
Brisk Walk – Step outside for a 15-minute power walk or pace around your office. Movement boosts endorphins, clears your mind, and helps you problem-solve better.
Office Yoga – If you’re feeling ambitious, take a cue from my entrepreneur friend who started hosting a 30 minute morning yoga class for his team. Even a few yoga poses at your desk can help!
Option 2: Breathe & Reset Your Mind (5-15 minutes)
Your mind is running a marathon every day. Give it a break with these quick resets:
4-7-8 Breathing – Inhale for 4 seconds, hold for 7, exhale for 8. Repeat a few times and feel the tension leave your body.
Box Breathing – Inhale for 4, hold for 4, exhale for 4, hold for 4. This technique is used by Navy SEALs to stay calm under pressure—so it can definitely help in your boardroom. I use it especially before a meeting with someone annoying.
Mindfulness or Meditation – Close your eyes and focus on your breath. If meditation isn’t your thing, just sitting quietly for a few minutes can work wonders. Try to think of something enjoyable, like a beach, or mountains, or being at a concert.
Option 3: Take a Mental Break (5-10 minutes)
Your brain needs space to recharge. Give it a break with:
A ‘No-Tech’ Pause – Step away from screens and notifications for a few minutes. Let your brain breathe. Give your eyes a break. Look across at your employees. Who is that new person? When did you hire them!?
Laughter Therapy – Watch a short funny video or read something that makes you laugh. It’s a scientifically proven stress buster.
Call a Friend – A quick check-in with someone you trust can do more for your stress levels than you realize.
Option 4: Hydrate, Refuel & Reframe (5-10 minutes)
Drink Water – Dehydration increases stress. Refill that glass!
Grab a Healthy Snack – Nuts, dark chocolate, or a piece of fruit can stabilize your mood and energy. And, if you’re like me, it’s always chocolate. So I don’t do this.
Write Down a Small Win – Stress makes us focus on problems. Take a moment to jot down something that went well today. Even a small win counts. Use this is a small gratitude practice.
Option 5: Close with Intention (2-5 minutes)
Before you dive back into the whirlwind, take a deep breath and set an intention:
What’s the ONE most important thing I need to focus on next?
How do I want to show up for the rest of the day?
Then, step back into your work refreshed, with a clear mind and a bit more energy to take on what’s next.
Final Thought: You Deserve This Time
I know it’s easy to dismiss self-care when you’re running a business. But here’s the thing: You can’t lead effectively if you’re constantly running on empty. Stress isn’t a badge of honor—it’s a warning sign. And a quick 30-minute reset like this can help you stay in control, avoid burnout, and actually enjoy the business you’ve worked so hard to build.
So, will you book that meeting with yourself today?