How Indian entrepreneurs & startups make their work-life balance more effective & more productive_ Azafran

Entrepreneurs are hustlers, constantly working to accomplish their dreams. They often believe that the only way to succeed is to be on their feet and do everything possible single-handedly continually.

In the process, some or even most of them forget that there's a life beyond the office and that work-life balance is a concept more talked about in maintaining their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. In the long run, to be as productive as you are today, you need to prioritize your health and work. Working can be tedious, so your body and mind need to switch off for a bit and relax and rejuvenate.

So how to take care of yourself and maintain a work-life balance while managing a business? Here are a few things that I religiously follow to keep myself sane and healthy.

Eat a substantial amount of food as and when you should. One meal a day will not suffice for the nutrition your body needs. For your mind to be active and productive, it needs to be provided with essential vitamins and minerals nutrients. Have at least 3-4 meals a day, a packed meal for lunch, a light meal for dinner, and fruit bowls or dry fruits to snack on in between meals.

Sleeping well and meditation have helped me a lot. I used to believe I could pull off a long day with just 5 hours of sleep, but would it be the best for my body in the long run? No. Your body needs at least 7-8 hours of sleep to relax and charge up for what lies ahead- a day of challenges and work. Meditation before bed or after waking up has helped me calm my mind, be more aware of my surroundings, and be patient.

Along with eating and sleeping right, I have understood the importance of short or long breaks needed once in a while. As an entrepreneur, you don' have to be the only one picking up work and being in charge. Learn how to trust the employees working with you and delegate sweat to them instead of keeping your plate full. Take small breaks between work, and go for a walk if you can. Align a vacation with your family or significant other once in a while to get away from work worries because you need and deserve it.

Most importantly, take out some "Me time" and do whatever you help calm down. It can be as simple as a clean and elaborate skincare routine at night. 15 mins dedicated to caring for your skin can prove to be highly therapeutic and calming to your mind and body, not to mention the rested and energized feel it gives your face in the mornings.

Work-life balance may seem challenging, but it can be figured with grace if you think it through. Prioritize your tasks- finish the more prominent/harder ones first, take breaks when needed, and nourish your body with good, clean food. Make habits that will then become a lifestyle!