After 14 years of leading a growing pet care business, I have gone through the ebb and flow of sheer joy, to complete overwhelm, and the occasional thought of “I am ready to sell this shitshow!”. I vacillate between complete happiness and delight, to disdain for being a business owner, often many times throughout the month…or sometimes the course of a day. If you lead a team of pet care workers, I am guessing you can relate to the feeling that your business can “suck the life out of you” some days.
In Part 1 of this series, we explored the challenges faced by pet care business owners when it comes to managing a team of dedicated but often unpredictable employees. Now, in Part 2, we will delve into some practical tips to help you reduce stress and successfully lead your pet care team while also prioritizing your own well-being. It has taken me many years of near burn out to embrace the following tips, some are still a work in progress, but after making major changes over the past 5 years I can say that my own personal growth and development is one of the biggest drivers in the success of my pet resort. I feel strongly the below items are crucial to reach the next level of personal well-being and continued business success.
Ten Tips for Pet Care Professionals to Prioritize Your Personal Well-being:
- Healthy Diet: As a business owner, your schedule can be demanding, but don't neglect your nutrition. Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide the energy and focus you need to manage your team effectively. I admit this one can be tough for me, as I often eat when busy, stressed or even bored, but on the days I eat better foods I FEEL so much better and am more productive.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporate daily exercise into your routine. Whether it's a quick morning jog, a yoga session, or a brisk walk during lunch with one of your furry guests, physical activity helps reduce stress and boosts your mood. Exercise also improves overall health, which is vital for long-term success in the pet care industry. Keep in mind that an “exercise session” can literally be 10 minutes if that is all you can fit in!
- Morning and Evening Routine: Establish a consistent morning and evening routine. A structured start and end to your day can create a sense of stability and reduce anxiety. This could include practices like meditation, journaling, a warm shower before bed or simply enjoying a cup of tea to ease into or wind down from your day.
- Affirmations and Positive Thinking: It may sound a bit “woo woo,” but starting and ending your day with positive affirmations and gratitude can help cultivate a positive mindset, increase self-confidence, and reduce stress. For example, say, "I am capable of handling challenges with grace and resilience."
- Personal Development: Make personal growth a priority. Set aside time to read books, attend workshops, or take online courses related to leadership, stress management, and communication skills. Continuous self-improvement not only benefits you but also positively influences your team. I also strongly suggest attending at least one pet industry conference each year
- Delegate and Share Responsibilities: Don't hesitate to delegate tasks both in your business and personal life. Hire help when necessary, such as someone to clean your home twice a month or additional staff for your pet care facility. Sharing responsibilities can free up your time, and reduce stress. Many facility owners near burn out and consider selling their business, myself included, but your stress can be alleviated by hiring a manager to help oversee the day-to-day operation.
- Seek Support: Connect with fellow business owners or managers in the pet care industry. Join local or online business networks or associations to share experiences and gain support from peers who understand your challenges. Building a support system can be invaluable in reducing feelings of isolation and stress.
- Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Avoid overworking and allocate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending quality time with loved ones. Overextending yourself can lead to burnout and increased stress levels. I give myself a cut off time of 8:30pm when I shut off all devices, including my phone. This has helped me sleep better and allows me to reset for the next day.
- Practice Mindfulness: Again, it may seem a bit esoteric, but it is helpful to incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, or guided relaxation can help you stay centered and calm in the face of frustrating moments.
- Regular Check-ins with Yourself: Schedule regular "check-ins" with yourself to assess your stress levels and well-being. This can literally be 5 minutes to reflect on how you are feeling at that moment, or in that day. Adjust your self-care strategies as needed to ensure you're staying on track.
Remember, by taking care of your own physical and mental health, you'll be better equipped to help others and lead your team effectively. Prioritizing your well-being isn't selfish; it's essential for maintaining a balanced and sustainable approach to managing your business. As you implement these strategies, you'll not only reduce stress but also create a positive work environment that benefits both you and your dedicated team of pet care professionals.
Pawsitively Squishy is your partner to create a “pawsitive” pet care team with our innovative and fun cards! Show appreciation for your team, recognize their hard work and provide encouragement when needed. Shop our store HERE!
Written by Laurie Yost, owner of Pawsitively Squishy and a 14 year veteran in the Pet Care industry. Laurie owns Playful Pups Retreat, a pet resort offering premium overnight dog lodging, a variety of enrichment focused doggie daycare programs, puppy social skills daycare and innovative dog training programs, bathing services, and much more, with two locations serving Central PA.