To use self-love in your business: It’s a trait we often forget about. I recently read Dare to lead by Brené Brown and it hit me. It’s all connected: us, our businesses and the love that flows in between. Brené describes it this way: “A leader is anyone who takes responsibility for finding the potential in people and processes and has the courage to develop that potential.” The potential in people and processes; that’s beautiful. But can I add ‘yourself’ to that equation?
Dare to set your boundaries
It’s so easy to fall for the trap of working all day long and not knowing where your limits lie. Until one day your body tells you, no, screams at you to take a break.
I think we agree it’s best to avoid the point where you break down because you overdid it. How? By setting boundaries for yourself. For example:
- No calls after 5 o’clock
- Weekends are for family
- Emails will be read and answered on Tuesdays and Thursdays only
The easy part? It’s your business, you decide!
The hard part? Leaving the people-pleasing behind!
Dare to rely on yourself
You are known for your reliability and your customers know they can depend on you. But can you depend on yourself as well?
I can already hear you say it: “Of course I can!”
But I bet your have at least said one of the following sentences to yourself in the past month:
- I’ll be right there, just one last thing!
- A quick check in my mailbox won’t hurt.
- I know it’s Saturday, but I could get so much done.
- I know you need it on Monday, so I’ll work on the weekend for you.
You feel seen, right? Don’t feel bad. I was there once too. But remember to keep the promises you make to yourself first. Then all the rest will automatically follow.
Dare to hold yourself accountable
Are you in a place where you can tell yourself that enough is enough? And most importantly, do you listen?
We are quick to give advice to anyone who needs it, forgetting that we ourselves need it most.
When a customer asks you to urgently do something there are two ways to respond.
- Of course, anything for you. I will gladly put in the overtime.
- I would love to help you. Unfortunately, my planning doesn’t allow for any more projects right now. I can however get it to you by … . Would that work for you?
If you chose the first answer, it’s important to acknowledge there is no one to blame but yourself (harsh, I know). Maybe try the second one in the future.
During the past year, I have grown tremendously and it’s time to take accountability for the fact that I need to put my experience out there. This radical responsibility is a whole mindset change, but I am ready for what life throws at me. As long as I can see you win!
Because of that I want to help you find the ultimate self-love to boost your business.
You can find The Love Yourself First Handbook right here! Let’s start with ourselves!
