Accountants and insurance brokers often advise business owners to “look after your assets”. They are usually referring to machinery and equipment, which they suggest you maintain and have regularly serviced. But in small business, often the most important asset is the business owner. Do we look after ourselves as though we are a valuable piece of equipment?
Usually not! Most business owners look after everything else and leave ourselves last. After all, we are optimists so we assume we won’t get sick or have any sort of injuries that will prevent us from working. Is this a wise plan? No. To plan for a long business life — long enough to reap the rewards — that means planning a long life for yourself. It’s easier said than done, I know. As a business owner myself, I often have to balance the needs of the business and clients against my own needs. However, looking after yourself makes good business sense.
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