The study by Small Biz Silver Lining revealed that a significant number of small business owners are struggling with mental health issues, with 75 percent expressing concerns and over half having been diagnosed with anxiety, depression, or stress-related problems. The author of the article, who started a financial education company during the Covid-19 pandemic, shared their personal experience of prioritizing mental health while still achieving financial success. They emphasized the importance of being protective of one’s time and implementing weekly habits to optimize schedules for maximum productivity.
The author outlined a weekly habit of reviewing and optimizing schedules to ensure that time is spent on activities that drive the most results towards financial independence goals. This habit involves spending time on Sundays or Mondays to plan the upcoming week, using online tools like Google calendar for efficiency, color-coding different types of activities, and grouping similar tasks together. They also recommended using scheduling tools like Calendly or Acuity to manage availability for personal time and limit unnecessary meetings.
The article highlighted the importance of setting boundaries and declining meetings that do not add value or align with personal goals. The author shared five rule breakers for declining meetings, including those without a clear agenda, those that could be handled through email, those seeking free advice, those involving unpleasant people, and those that do not invoke enthusiasm. By practicing these boundaries consistently, individuals can save time for more productive activities like budgeting, investing, or meeting with money mentors.
The author stressed the importance of scheduling self-nourishment activities to support financial goals and overall well-being. They shared their experience of prioritizing self-care in their budget and schedule, allocating funds and time towards activities that revive them like yoga, dance classes, counseling, and rest. By making self-care non-negotiable, individuals can ensure that they maintain balance and avoid burnout, leading to sustainable routines and long-term financial success.
Maintaining a drama-free calendar allows individuals to approach their week with enthusiasm and freedom, ensuring that they have time for spontaneity and rest. By actively choosing how to spend their time and focusing on activities that bring joy, individuals can achieve true financial freedom beyond just numbers. The article emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and self-care in achieving financial goals, highlighting the connection between a well-balanced schedule and overall financial success. By implementing habits like prioritizing self-nourishment and setting clear meeting boundaries, individuals can create a sustainable routine that supports their financial objectives and overall well-being.
