Self-Care for Small Business Owners: 5 Ways to Protect Your Wellbeing

Running a small business is no small feat.

You're wearing multiple hats – leading a team, managing day-to-day operations, solving problems, and pushing for growth. With so much on your plate, it’s easy to let your own well-being slide to the bottom of the list.

But here’s the thing: if you burn out, your business feels it too. Taking care of yourself isn’t a luxury – it’s a leadership strategy. And the best part? You don’t have to do it alone.

At OneDigital, we understand that a thriving business grows from healthy, supported people – especially those leading the way.

Why Wellness Should Be a Business Priority

Small business owners often face higher stress levels, longer hours, and greater pressure than most employees. On top of that, you’re likely managing the well-being of your team – adding even more to your mental load.

When you prioritize your own wellness, you’re not just helping yourself. You’re improving your focus, building resilience, and setting a powerful example for your team. Healthy leaders create healthy workplaces.

5 Simple Ways to Support Your Wellness (and Your Team’s)

Looking after your own wellbeing doesn’t require big shifts – it’s about building sustainable habits and creating a culture where health is a shared priority. Here are five practical ways to get started:

1. Reevaluate Your Benefits

A thoughtful benefits package goes a long way in supporting both your health and your team's. Even small changes, like adding mental health support, flexible options, or wellness perks, can make a big impact. Focus on what’s meaningful, not just what’s expected.

2. Make Mental Health Part of the Conversation

Mental wellbeing affects every part of your life and leadership. Creating a culture where talking about stress, burnout, or anxiety isn’t taboo. Whether it’s promoting open communication, sharing resources, or modeling boundaries, small steps can normalize mental health at work.

3. Encourage Time Off (and Actually Take It)

Time away from work is essential, not optional. Encourage your team to fully unplug – and do the same yourself. Set clear PTO policies, respect time off, and lead by example to show that rest is part of productivity.

4. Reduce the Daily Mental Load

Running a business means juggling a thousand little tasks. Wherever possible, find ways to delegate, automate, or streamline the operational burdens that take up headspace – whether that’s HR, compliance, or scheduling. Freeing up mental bandwidth can do wonders for your wellbeing.

5. Promote Healthy Habits in Simple Ways

Wellness doesn’t have to mean big programs. A few small, consistent efforts – like lunchtime walks, team step challenges, or offering flexibility for exercise or appointments – can encourage healthy routines without overwhelming your people (or your budget).

A Healthy Business Starts With You

When you invest in your wellbeing, you lead with more energy, clarity, and compassion – and your team takes notice. That kind of leadership shapes your company culture and drives long-term success.

The result?

• More engaged employees
• Better retention
• Stronger overall business performance

Ready to Build a Healthier Business?

Whether you’re looking to enhance your employee benefits, improve work-life balance, or take a few things off your plate, OneDigital is here to help.

We partner with small business owners to create workplaces where leaders, teams, and businesses can thrive. Contact us today to design a wellness strategy that empowers you as a leader and strengthens your entire organization!