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<\/a><\/figure><\/div>\n\n\nKnock-on effects<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
The always-on nature of running a small business has a knock-on effect on rest and energy levels, which in turn affects business performance. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
77% reported getting less sleep since starting their business, while 37% lost four or more hours a night. 64% have also reduced or stopped making time for exercise. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
As stress builds, it becomes harder for founders and owners to find time for themselves, with 50% turning to overworking or late nights.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
“There are signs business owners are operating in survival mode, and tackling threats to their livelihood with a range of sacrifices and personal investments,” said Clinical Psychologist Dr Marc Rogatschnig. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
“Many of which we know are ineffective in the long term. As an antidote to the \u2018emotional tax,\u2019 entrepreneurs need to explore the route towards a \u2018flourishing\u2019 life.” <\/p>\n\n\n\n
Xero noted that actively prioritising life satisfaction, well-being, and healthy relationships will help protect from emotional burnout.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This stress makes it impossible for one to perform at their peak, affecting the skills an entrepreneur needs to succeed, which then harms the business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This stress is silently costing South African small business owners an average of 33 working days of productivity each year, time that could be spent on connecting with customers or improving the business. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
87% of South African small business owners reported struggling with their professional performance due to the Emotional Tax. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
This included missed opportunities (36%), slower decision-making (36%), loss of confidence (35%), avoidable mistakes (34%), reduced creativity (33%) and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Xero said that automating tasks can free up time for hobbies and holidays, which can restore mental and physical capacity. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
In good news, 92% of business owners are taking steps to manage their well-being and combat their daily stressors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Self-care (47%), spending time with family and friends (38%), carving out time for exercise (32%), escaping into entertainment (30%) and practising mindfulness and meditation (30%) are key ways to destress. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
30% are also trying to simplify their operations, with business managers spending an average of 39 hours a month managing their finances. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cYou shouldn’t have to sacrifice your well-being to see your business thrive, and it\u2019s a relief to see so many are already taking steps to manage their stress,” said Timmis.<\/p>\n\n\n