5 Self-Care Tips for Leaders in Small Business

Because, when you burn out, who’s putting out all those other fires?

When was the last time you actually took a vacation? Or even just took a moment to breathe? When’s the last time you got a solid 8 hours of sleep, made yourself a real meal, or didn’t roll over and grab your phone to check emails before you even sat up?

If you’re shrugging or can’t remember, it’s time for a reality check: Too many small business leaders treat self-care like it’s some fluffy, optional indulgence. Well, self-care is not just for you. 

When you’re taking care of yourself, you’re better equipped to take care of your team and your business. That’s why we’ve put together an easy, approachable list of self-care strategies that let you take time for yourself without the guilt.

#1 Prioritize Well-Being Breaks—and Encourage Your Team to Join You

Why it Matters: Let’s be honest, a coffee run or a quick stretch isn’t just a break—it’s a secret weapon for productivity. Stepping away, even for a few minutes, can reset your focus and keep your energy up for the day’s chaos.

Conscious Tip: Block out mini-breaks on your calendar like your mental well-being depends on it (because it does). And let your team in on the action. Encourage them to do the same and embrace a break culture. Want to go big? Try a spontaneous five-minute dance party. Yes, right there at your desks - sing, dance, tap your toes, give some shoulder shake action. It’s amazing what a quick collective energy boost can do for morale (and maybe even those office dance skills).

#2 Set an Intentional Start to Each Day

Why it Matters: Diving straight into emails at the crack of dawn? Recipe for stress. Easing into your day with intention—whether it’s a quiet coffee, some journaling, or jotting down goals—sets a calmer tone that flows right into how you make decisions (which, let’s face it, are pretty important).

Conscious Tip: Share your morning rituals with your team or try kicking off each week with a “Mindful Monday.” Start with a quick team check-in to bring everyone into a grounded, calm headspace. Mornings are prime real estate for mental clarity; use them to get everyone aligned and avoid that Monday-morning madness.  Feelin’ like you could use a little more intuitive guidance?  Check out our Founder’s book Becoming Conscious in a Corporate World (Without Losing Your Sanity) - it sets the tone for starting with you first, with a little help from the universe.

#3 Delegate, Delegate, Delegate

Why it Matters: There’s no prize for trying to do it all. (If there were, you’d have already won it ten times over.) Hanging onto every single task actually blocks both your growth and your team’s. The “I’ll just do it myself” mentality? Not it.

Conscious Tip: Start identifying the stuff you don’t have to do, don’t have the time to do, or just isn’t in your wheelhouse. Make it a regular habit to delegate—it’s a win-win. You free up precious mental space, and your team steps up, building skills and ownership. True conscious leadership is about empowering others, not clutching every task with an iron fist.

#4 Celebrate Small Wins, Every Day

Why it Matters: No, we’re not saying break out the champagne every time someone answers an email. But celebrating small achievements keeps the team motivated and reinforces that, yes, progress is happening—even when it feels slow.

Conscious Tip: At the end of each day, make it a point to celebrate one small win. It doesn’t have to be grand—a quick “Nice work on that report!” can do wonders for morale. Recognition and appreciation go a long way in building a positive culture, and it only takes a moment.

#5 Invest in Your Own Development

Why it Matters: Leaders who stay sharp keep their teams and businesses sharp. Personal growth helps you avoid burnout, gain fresh perspectives, and bring that extra inspiration your team craves.

Conscious Tip: Carve out dedicated time for your own growth—whether that’s listening to a podcast, reading a leadership book, or joining a community of like-minded leaders. (Psst… ever heard of EyesOpen? It’s our very own community for leaders like you, where HR experts are on hand to help you navigate the weird world of people management.) Investing in yourself means you’re better equipped to support your team and keep your business moving forward.

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Self-care might sound like it belongs on an inspirational mug, but let’s face it: it’s seriously important. When you’re recharged, you’re not just a better leader—you’re the fire extinguisher, the motivator, and the go-to guru all in one. So go ahead, take the time, set the example, and show your team that self-care isn’t just some feel-good trend. It’s a conscious power move that keeps the whole business running strong.