When a loved one dies, it’s expected that we will be there for the rest of our friends and family so that we can grieve together. Unfortunately, for small business owners, that isn’t always possible. As much as you want to ease the pain of loss, you have to keep living.
Grieving Together from Afar
When you want to pay your respects but can’t break away from your business, consider sending something more valuable than flowers or potted plants. Those closest to the deceased will be busy planning the funeral and adjusting to a new life, but you can take some of the strain off of your surviving loved ones by providing a monthly meal kit service or offering to help make arrangements. Another alternative is to gift cleaning services for the first couple months after the death.
Stay in touch with your loved ones as you all heal in your own ways. Keep in mind that while an occasional text message may be appreciated, the most sincere form of communication from a distance is to simply pick up the phone. Technology has made it easier to talk face to face in times of crisis. Android Authority recently rated the best video calling apps, and Amazon’s Alexa-based Show now offers hands-free voice calling to other device owners.
Neglecting Self-Care Is Not an Option
Helping your loved ones through grief is one way to alleviate your own pain. But you must also learn to manage your self-care needs while you run your business and navigate your own emotions. Reach out to the same people you have supported for a listening ear and friendly voice when you need to talk. Continue to go to bed at your normal time and get enough rest so your body and mind are refreshed and able to focus on your daily tasks. Author Marian Schembari explains how she continued to run a business with depression, which is a common side effect of losing a loved one, especially when compounded with the guilt of not being there.
Another major component of your self-care routine should be to accept and acknowledge your feelings each day. You must also learn to be patient with yourself and pay attention to your physical needs. North Dakota’s Hospice Red River Valley explains that you should also be able and willing to accept help from others, whether it be family, friends, or a professional therapist. Remember, you are not alone in your grief.
Practical Matters
When you own your own business, this means you must carry on in your professional endeavors, regardless of your personal turmoil. Learn to prioritize and take care of pressing matters first thing in the morning before you’re worn down physically and emotionally. Your other obligations won’t seem as intimidating if you take care of your most important tasks right off the bat. It’s hard to carry on, but you must continue to support yourself and your family.
Money matters may also be a concern while you’re fighting your way through grief, so take the time to prioritize your budget. If you have employees, think about who could get a promotion and take on more responsibility. Consider seeking the guidance of a business coach, too, who could guide you on keeping your business afloat until you regain your footing and are able to focus again.
Grieving is hard enough without having to feel guilty about your obligations and responsibilities. Rest easy knowing that your loved one would not want you to put yourself and your family in financial jeopardy, and keep an open line of communication with your support network. This, combined with adequate self-care and smart business choices, will help you manage both your professional needs and personal healing without sacrificing either.
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