Running a small fitness or wellbeing business can be incredibly fulfilling. You get to help people live healthier, happier lives, all while doing something you’re passionate about. But being a business owner also comes with, what can seem like, a neverending list of tasks. From scheduling social media to doing your accounts, planning new classes and marketing for new clients, it feels like there’s always something that needs to be done.
This relentless to-do list can make you feel like you’re constantly playing catch-up. Many business owners beat themselves up for not finishing everything on their list, leading to stress, burnout, and a sense of never quite being “good enough.” The truth is, the to-do list will never be done, and that’s okay. Understanding this and creating boundaries is key to maintaining momentum and achieving long term business success.
From Completion to Progress:
Accepting that your to-do list will never be completely finished is a powerful mindset shift. It’s not about getting everything done; it’s about making consistent progress and recognising that some tasks will take longer than others. The shift around how you think about your to-do list can take time. For some of us, beating ourselves up about not getting everything done, not giving ourselves enough time to complete tasks and trying to ram so many things into an hour (that would actually take 5 people a week to do) has become a fabulous way to feel like we have failed and to keep ourselves stuck in a cycle of sabotage.
Embracing the mindset of “progress rather than completion” when it comes to your to-do list is essential for your business and personal wellbeing and here’s why:
- Reduces Stress and Prevents Burnout:
When you accept that there will always be more to do, you can start to let go of the unrealistic expectation of completing everything. This can significantly reduce your stress levels and prevent burnout.
For Example: Instead of working late into the night to clear your list, set a reasonable cutoff time. This helps you maintain a healthy balance, ensuring you have time to rest and recharge.
- Prioritise What Matters Most:
Not all tasks are created equal. By recognising that your to-do list will never be fully completed, you can focus on prioritising the most critical tasks that drive your business forward.
For Example: If you have a choice between spending time on a marketing campaign that could bring in new clients or tweaking your website design, focus on the marketing campaign. It’s about making strategic decisions that align with your business goals.
- Create Boundaries and Protect Your Time:
Understanding that your to-do list will refill itself allows you to create boundaries around your work. It encourages you to set limits on your working hours and to protect your personal time.
For Example: Set specific work hours and stick to them. If you finish your workday at 6 PM, don’t check emails or continue working past that time. This helps you maintain a clear separation between work and personal life.
Practical tips for embracing your to-do list:
- Set Realistic Goals: Break your tasks into smaller, manageable goals. Instead of trying to complete a massive project in one go, set smaller milestones that you can achieve each day.
- Use Time Blocks: Schedule specific times for different tasks. For example, allocate time in the morning for client sessions, the afternoon for admin work, and a couple of hours for marketing activities. This helps you stay organised and focused.
- Learn to Delegate: Delegating tasks can free up your time and allow you to focus on high-priority activities. Don’t be afraid to let others handle parts of your to-do list.
- Practice Self-Compassion: Be kind to yourself. Recognise that you’re doing your best and that it’s okay not to finish everything. Celebrate your progress and achievements, no matter how small.
- Review and Adjust: Regularly review your to-do list and adjust your priorities as needed. What was important last week might not be a priority this week. Stay flexible and adapt to changing circumstances.
In Conclusion…
Accepting that your to-do list will never be fully completed is liberating. It allows you to focus on progress rather than perfection, reduces stress and helps you maintain a healthier balance. The mindset shift from completion to progress may take time as it may be a familiar and loyal habit/story to beat yourself up about not completing your list. Do know that you can change this habit/story and many have already done so. You can do it too!
Until next time,
Best wishes
Philippa x