Chevy Tharp

Laughter is an instant vacation. – Milton Berle

Life as a business professional isn’t all fun and games. You may find yourself tight on cash, overwhelmed by multiple tasks and downright nervous about your business future. There will be times when you’ll feel frustrated, exhausted or stressed. These feelings are all fair and normal. Ironically, some of these are even driving forces that make us better at our jobs or within our companies.

However, keeping your spirits up is extremely important. Follow these suggestions to help turn any frown upside down:

1. Take a break. The average American professional puts in more hours than that of most any other country in the world. This can quickly lead to business burnout or depression. You will lose your energy and motivation, which was originally driving you in your business endeavors. Take a little breather every few hours to do something unrelated to work. Maui is the perfect place for quick escapes. Take advantage of the beauty, climate and atmosphere here. Let it be of benefit to you on your job.
2. Physical exercise. While we all know that we need to do things physically to stimulate our bodies, that doesn’t mean we all do it or understand the effects it can have on our jobs or companies. Exercise in small consistent doses can work wonders for our mental stamina and happiness in the workplace. Work to set some small, accomplishable goals and then build on these. The results will lead to a happier workplace and a better company. Remember, just start small and you will naturally want more. But don’t burn yourself out on this, either.
3. Get a hobby. Entrepreneurs typically have trouble “turning their minds off” when they leave work. Always thinking about your business will stress you out—and the people you love. Find joy in a new hobby, activity, charity or church that has nothing to do with your entrepreneurial ambitions. This one may be hard if you are a business owner, but at savvy business owner will find a way to accomplish this or his/her business may ultimately suffer.
4. Laugh. Sounds simple, and it is. There are numerous studies and lots of research done on the correlation between laughing and good business. Laughter releases chemicals that trigger the release of endorphins that lead to increased happiness. This process will lead to a better workplace. If you are not a natural laugher, build in some times during your workweek to find ways to make you laugh.

These are just a few of many suggestions to better balance and enhance your job or business. This is wise business. As always, it is my pleasure to give back to Maui through business education.

Chevy Tharp is regional vice president, Hawaiian Islands and Western U.S., for Meridian Business Brokers & Meridian Group Hawai‘i. Tharp is an international business consultant and business broker who specializes in helping people buy, sell and improve businesses. He welcomes you to contact him at chevy@mghawaii.com or (808) 268-6131.