Working Well: knowing the signs of stress when self-employed

Owning and growing a small business can be challenging at times. The transition from being an expert in your field, to needing broader business skills, can sometimes feel stressful and lonely.

Many people choose to work for themselves in the hope it delivers greater flexibility and freedom over the work they do. However, if the reality is long hours, competitive markets, and demanding clients, the demands of work can start to result in feelings of stress and overwhelm.

Of course, we all have good and bad days, that’s a normal part of life. However, if the challenging days become more regular, it’s time to take notice. If you can recognise the signs that might suggest ongoing stress at work, you’ll be better equipped to take action and address it.

Sometimes, we’re so focused on work, we simply don’t see the signs in ourselves. However, the people close to us might notice and share their concerns. If they do, it’s usually worth listening to them.

• Poor sleep habits. You might find it difficult to get to sleep or wake up very early thinking about work.
  
  
• Always thinking about work. It becomes difficult to enjoy social events, hobbies or activities because you’re constantly thinking about work.
  
  
• Changes in eating or drinking habits. Eating more or less than usual or drinking more alcohol.
  
  
• Ignoring others or being unusually slow to respond. Becoming avoidant, such as not replying to emails, avoiding calls, or missing events.

We’ve talked about four common signs of work-based stress, and the importance of identifying it early. What can you do next? The good news is there are many ways to boost wellbeing at work. One easy, yet effective method, is to write down what’s worrying you at work. Once you complete your list, think about a trusted person you could share it with. This might be a partner, friend, business colleague or counsellor. Sometimes, just talking about your concerns with someone else makes the situation easier to manage, and less worrying. A big bonus is you can do this almost anywhere, like over a coffee catch-up, or going for a walk together. Sharing what’s on your mind is a simple first step to reducing stress at work. Follow along for more innovative and easy ways to manage stress when you’re a small business owner.

This NRMA Insurance Working Well blog post series will provide you with ideas and tips to help address the stress you might feel at work. There’s also great resources freely available if needed, like the Beyond Blue New Access for Small Business Owners program.