Start-ups are inclined to run themselves into the ground in their bid to launch and can pay the price once the business is up and running.
“High amounts of physical and psychological stress over a long period of time can lead to burnout,” Stark warns.
“Numerous studies have shown how continuous psychological stress can cause physical changes such as lack of energy, tension, anger, anxiety, depression, insomnia, fatigue, injury and illness susceptibility.”
“However, many people continue to push through this.”
By staying in top physical condition, Stark says your body and mind are better equipped to deal with chronic stress, which can make or break an entrepreneur’s mindset.
In addition to getting plenty of sleep, Stark suggests having a massage, taking a walk, or yoga or mediation as methods to reduce the impact of daily stress and allow for optimal recovery.
Toomey has a quirky tip to keep yourself calm when worry and stress start to take their toll.
“In a corner of your office, have a card table with a 500-1,000 piece jigsaw on it. When your mind gets a little too agitated, spend 10 to 15 minutes on the jigsaw,” he says.
“Years of economic and behaviour research show that when we put money or reputation on the line, we are more likely to succeed,” Stark says.
“Make a verbal or contractual commitment to achieving your goals. Use social media to let the world know of your challenges and accomplishments.”
It’s also worth making daily to-do lists and ticking off items as you complete them, without adding more tasks to the list.
When you’re in need of an energy boost, opt for fresh air over that third cup of coffee – it will clear your head and leave you feeling refreshed.
“Want to be revitalised? Get outdoors. Nothing beats exercising in the great outdoors with the fresh air, open spaces and warm sunshine,” Stark says.
“Studies have shown individuals who train outdoors when compared to training indoors report greater feelings of revitalisation, increased energy and positive engagement.”
Greenery in the office has also been proven to have a positive effect on workers’ attitudes and productivity levels, so make a point of displaying some indoor plants or fresh flowers.
According to Stark, laughter has been proven to change one’s mood within minutes. If you’re a start-up, how do make your staff – and yourself – laugh?
“Get outside, kick a ball or go for a walk,” Stark suggests.
Most importantly, don’t take yourself too seriously. Make jokes, play games and arrange Friday night drinks.
“You will never outrun a poor diet,” Stark says.
“People often justify to themselves that they can get away with eating whatever they want as long as they exercise. This is not the case – both are equally as important as each other.”
“Optimal health is achieved through a stable internal environment, known as homeostasis. To achieve this, think like a hunter-gatherer.”
Stark’s top tips for a healthy diet:
Toomey says the way in which you eat is just as important as what you eat. In addition to eating breakfast every day, he says everyone should stop to eat their lunch.
“Even if it is for 10 minutes, stop work to eat. Do not drink coffee at your desk. During the day, drink herbal teas – find out which herbal tea is best for you,” he says.
“Save coffee for when you go out for meetings, and take time to enjoy your coffees.”
If you work from home, avoid having items in the cupboard that you’re inclined to eat when you’re stressed. If you work in an office, have fresh foods on hand to create healthy meals.
Do all of this and, hopefully, you will remain healthy enough in body and mind to get your business into optimal shape too.
