Learning how to say 'no'

TOO often, small business owners - particularly women entrepreneurs - think their enterprise won't progress to the next level unless ' they're always around to steer the wheel.

As a result, they don't build in any alternatives for taking time away from work.

This is especially true when everything is running smoothly. Monthly end reports - spectacularthough the results may be - still need to be reconciled, quick decisions have to be made and no time is to be wasted on savouring the monient of success.

The only pondering to be done would be to find an answer to that perennial question, "What next is there for me to do?"

But without time to recharge, both business and owner could potentially suffer in the long term. Taking on more thanwhat we can manage is a recipefor ongoing stress and burnout.

This in turn could lead to loss of stamina and business tunnel vision.

Remember, it's not about how fast you grow, but how big and how long you stick around to leave a legacy.

I've learnt the hard way myself that the best lesson for me as an entrepreneur is, perhaps ironically, learning how to say "No" to some of the demands ofmy work.

If you're prepared for a change and a systematic overhaul, here are four tips to allow you to love relaxation as much as you love your work:

1. Say "No". You give yourself the illusion there's so much to do within 24 hours. Learning to say "No" to less important tasks frees you up to do more strategic· thinking on how best to grow your business.

2. Create a solid system. Think ahead and start building support structures and networks before you even actually need one. Putting yourself at the top of your priority list may not seem selfish after all.

3. Take mini breaks. Business owners on the fast track lose sight of time very quickly. Carve out a one hour break daily to hit the gym or have an uninterrupted "me" time.

Dedicate that hour to your- , self just to clear the clutter in your mind.

4. Ask for help. You are so used to doing so many things for so many people. It's time for you to reach out to your staff, partners, business associates and family members who have become accustomed to you running the show.

For once, stop. Ask for support.

For example, when my staff offer to help me get lunch, I welcome the kind gesture and let them surprise me (pleasurably!) with whichever dish they choose.

After all, what I have for lunch every day is definitely something I don't have to micro- manage.