Staying Healthy As a Solopreneur: My Journey and Tips

Hey there, friends!

Let’s talk about something that doesn’t always make it to the solopreneur highlight reel: staying healthy. Running your own business can feel like a marathon some days—and a sprint on others. We wear all the hats, juggle all the things, and still try to show up for family, friends, and life outside of work. It’s a lot, and if we’re not careful, it can take a toll on our health.

If you’ve been feeling like staying healthy while running your business is just another thing to add to your list, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too. But over the years, I’ve learned that the better I care for myself, the better I show up—for my clients, my family, and my goals. So today, I’m sharing the small but impactful ways I’m prioritizing my health as a solopreneur.

Staying Healthy By Moving: Walk It Out

Let me start with my favorite form of exercise: walking.

I just got back from a brisk evening walk (pro tip: it’s a great way to clear your head after a long day!). I didn’t film much because it got dark quickly, but let me tell you—it felt amazing. Walking is my go-to because it’s simple, free, and doesn’t require fancy equipment. It’s just me, my sneakers, and some fresh air.

I aim to walk daily, whether it’s a quick loop around the neighborhood or a longer trek to explore a nearby park. Walking helps me reset, both physically and mentally. When I’m feeling stuck creatively or overwhelmed by my to-do list, a 15-minute walk can work wonders. Plus, it’s one of the easiest ways to sneak in some movement during busy workdays.

And let’s be honest—working from home can lead to a lot of sitting. Some days, I realize I’ve been glued to my desk for hours without so much as a stretch. Not ideal. So, I set reminders to get up, stretch, or take a quick stroll. Trust me, your body (and your productivity) will thank you.

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Hydration Goals: A Work in Progress

Alright, let’s talk about water. If you’re like me, drinking enough water might not come naturally. I know hydration is important—our brains need water to think clearly, and our bodies need it to function well—but I often get so caught up in work that I forget to sip.

Lately, I’ve been making an effort to hydrate more intentionally. One trick I’ve started using is keeping a cute water bottle on my desk. It might sound silly, but having something visually appealing makes me more likely to drink.

I’ve also been indulging in warm teas as part of my hydration routine. Today’s pick? Blackberry Citrus tea with a boost of zinc—perfect for fall and flu season. While tea isn’t a substitute for water, it’s a cozy way to stay hydrated and enjoy some me-time during busy days.

Still, I’ll admit I have a long way to go when it comes to meeting my daily water intake goals. If you’re in the same boat, let’s make a pact to do better. Maybe we need a hydration accountability group—what do you think?

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Fueling My Body: Balanced, Not Perfect

Let’s get real about food. As a solopreneur, I don’t always have the time (or energy) to whip up gourmet meals. But I’ve learned that what I eat directly impacts how I feel—and how well I work.

These days, I focus on balance. That means plenty of veggies, fruits, and whole foods, with room for treats when I’m craving them. I’m not about depriving myself or following strict diets. If it’s the holidays and there’s pie on the table, you better believe I’m enjoying a slice.

During regular weeks, I try to make healthier choices. For example:

• Natural Sweeteners: I’ve been swapping out processed sugar for alternatives like stevia, agave nectar, or honey. It’s a small change, but it makes a big difference in how I feel.
• Plant-Based Meals: While I’m not strictly vegetarian, I’ve been leaning into more plant-based meals lately. Quinoa bowls, chickpea salads, and roasted veggie medleys have become staples in my kitchen.
• Mindful Snacking: Instead of reaching for chips or cookies when I’m hungry, I keep fresh fruit, nuts, or protein bars on hand for easy, healthy snacking.

Meal planning has also become a fun challenge in my house. My family’s eating preferences are all over the map—one kid loves meat, the other prefers plant-based meals, and my husband’s a steak-and-potatoes kind of guy. It’s not always easy, but we make it work.

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Rest Is Productive

Here’s a reminder we all need: rest is not lazy.

As solopreneurs, we’re often tempted to work late nights and power through exhaustion to meet deadlines. But here’s the truth: burnout helps no one. I’ve learned that when I prioritize sleep and downtime, I’m so much more effective during work hours.

To ensure I’m getting enough rest, I’ve been setting boundaries around my work schedule. That means shutting down my laptop by a certain time each evening and giving myself permission to unplug. It’s not always easy—especially when there’s a lot on my plate—but it’s necessary.

I’ve also started incorporating little pockets of rest into my day. Whether it’s a 10-minute meditation, a quick power nap, or simply stepping away from my desk to enjoy lunch without distractions, these moments help me recharge.

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Mental Health Matters

Let’s not forget that health isn’t just physical—it’s mental and emotional too. Running a business can be stressful, and it’s easy to let anxiety or self-doubt creep in. That’s why I make mental health a priority.

For me, that looks like:

• Journaling: Writing down my thoughts helps me process emotions and clear my mind. I’ve been using my Evernote and Notion for this…but I’m also using this planner by Oprah.
• Gratitude Practice: Each day, I jot down a few things I’m grateful for. It’s a simple habit, but it shifts my focus to the positive.
• Connecting with Others: As a solopreneur, it’s easy to feel isolated. I make an effort to stay connected with friends, family, and fellow entrepreneurs who understand the journey.

Sometimes, self-care means reaching out for professional support. Therapy or coaching can be a game-changer when you’re navigating the ups and downs of entrepreneurship.

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Small Steps, Big Wins

If there’s one thing I’ve learned about staying healthy, it’s this: small, consistent steps add up. You don’t have to overhaul your entire lifestyle overnight. Start with one or two habits that feel doable, and build from there.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Take a 10-minute walk each day.
2. Drink a glass of water before your morning coffee.
3. Add an extra serving of veggies to one meal.
4. Set a bedtime alarm to remind yourself to wind down.
5. Spend five minutes journaling or meditating.

These little changes might not seem like much, but over time, they can have a big impact on your overall well-being.

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Your Turn

I’d love to hear from you! What are you doing to stay healthy as a solopreneur? Whether it’s a favorite workout, a go-to snack, or a self-care ritual, drop your tips in the comments. Let’s keep the conversation going and support each other on this journey.

Remember, staying healthy isn’t about being perfect. It’s about showing up for yourself in ways that feel good and sustainable. We’ve got this!