When managing a small business, there are lots of things involved that if not properly managed, can place the owner on the addiction path. It is important to consider that the highs and lows of handling a small business can make the owner get involved in some things that they should not.

Addiction is not about being involved with alcohol and drugs alone, it can also be characterized by some compulsive behaviors that produce the same effects as substance addiction.

If you want to know whether a small business owner is addicted or not, here are some telltale signs to watch out for.

Physical symptoms

When it comes to addiction, it is very easy to notice the physical signs because they are what you will see at first especially when it is substance addiction.

Some of the common physical signs are bloodshot eyes, dental issues, excessive weight gain or loss, poor hygiene, etc. Also, some of them may struggle with insomnia or somnolence amidst other physical signs.

Behavioral signs

Behavioral signs are peculiar to both substance and behavioral addiction. Substances like alcohol and drugs can affect an individual’s ability to think and focus clearly. For behavioral addiction, they will exhibit some signs like isolation, changes in priorities, changes in personality and attitude, etc.

When you observe that you are struggling with addiction, it is important to seek help to get your health back on track. Addiction can impair your ability to run your business smoothly in the long run.

This compulsive disease can make you incapable of competing with other business owners in your league. The first step to managing addiction is by seeing a counselor who will help you identify the root cause of your addiction.

Thereafter, you will undergo other forms of addiction treatment to restore your sobriety. Overall, learning to recognize the signs of addiction will help you become proactive to preventing the problem from worsening.

If you are running a small business, one of the things you need to prioritize is stress management. This is important if you want to be at the top of your game. It is important to mention that every aspect of your business can stress you out.  

However, it is up to you to find ways to combat this stress so that it does not affect your physical and mental health.

Here are some ways that small business owners can leverage to manage stress

Identify what is going well

When running a business, don’t pay more attention to the things that are going wrong. Look out for the things that are working right and get motivated with the results.

It would be nice to list your completed milestones and achievements. When you remember the things that have gone right, you will be more motivated to set bigger milestones and accomplish them.

Spot your stressors

If you want to tackle stress, you need to identify your stressors. It is important to watch out for the things or events that are stressing you. When you make a mental note of these things, you will be more strategic about your approach to managing stress.

Create a solid schedule

Another way to help you plan and manage stress is to build a schedule. This way, you will be able to space your tasks, instead of taking on more than you can handle. While creating a schedule, remember to include a timeframe where you get to rest.

Learn to delegate some tasks

It might get to the point where you are unable to handle all the tasks. You can delegate some duties to some of your trusted staff, and you handle the more complicated ones. This will help to reduce your workload.

Say “No” sometimes

Remember that you don’t have to say yes to everything. When you get some inconvenient offers, do not be afraid to turn them down especially if they will affect your resting schedule.