When you lose the 'spring' in your step during Spring!

Spring is a beautiful season, full of blossoming flowers, longer days, and the anticipation of summer. But the shift from winter's chill to spring's warmth often brings unpredictable weather – one day it's sunny and warm, the next it’s cool and drizzly. This kind of changeable weather can take a toll on our health, making us more susceptible to colds, flu, and general fatigue. If you’re running a business, staying healthy is essential – and knowing what to do if you do fall sick can make all the difference. Here’s a friendly guide on how to avoid getting sick this spring, and how to manage your business if illness strikes.

How to Stay Healthy During Spring’s Changeable Weather

1. Layer Up and Dress Wisely: Spring weather is notorious for its unpredictability. Mornings can be crisp and chilly, while afternoons might warm up quickly. Dress in layers so you can adjust your clothing throughout the day. This helps you avoid overheating or getting too cold, both of which can compromise your immune system.
2. Stay Hydrated and Eat Seasonal Foods: Drinking enough water is crucial for maintaining good health, especially as your body adjusts to seasonal changes. Keep hydrated with water, herbal teas, and nutrient-rich soups. Eating a balanced diet filled with seasonal produce, like leafy greens, berries, and citrus fruits, can boost your immune system and keep you energised. Foods high in Vitamin C, like oranges and kiwis, can help fend off colds.
3. Get Enough Sleep: A well-rested body is better at fighting off infections. Make sure you’re getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Create a consistent bedtime routine, and if you’re sensitive to changes in daylight, consider using blackout curtains to help you drift off easily.
4. Don’t Skip on Exercise – But Be Smart About It: Exercise is excellent for your overall health and immune function, but if the weather is particularly chilly or rainy, consider moving your workout indoors. Opt for yoga, stretching, or a home workout when the outdoors isn’t appealing. On mild days, take advantage of the fresh air for a walk or jog to boost your mood and circulation.
5. Practice Good Hygiene: Spring often brings a rise in colds and flu, so wash your hands regularly with soap and water, and avoid touching your face. If you're out and about, consider carrying a small bottle of hand sanitiser for situations where washing isn’t possible. Keeping your workspace clean and disinfected is equally important to prevent the spread of germs.

What to Do if You Do Get Sick: Balancing Self-Care and Business

No matter how many precautions you take, getting sick is sometimes unavoidable. Here’s how to look after yourself, your business, and your clients if you find yourself under the weather.

1. Prioritise Rest and Recovery: The first rule of managing illness is to prioritise your health. Trying to “push through” a sickness will likely prolong your recovery and lead to burnout. Let yourself rest. If possible, delegate some tasks to a trusted team member or contractor, or put non-essential work on hold. Your health is your most valuable asset, and rest is the best way to recover quickly.
2. Communicate with Clients Early: If you know you’ll be unavailable or working at a reduced capacity, communicate this with your clients as soon as possible. Most clients will appreciate your honesty and understand that everyone gets sick from time to time. You don’t need to go into great detail – a simple message explaining that you’re feeling unwell and may have a slight delay in response is enough. Offer alternatives or reschedule meetings where possible.
3. Automate and Delegate Where You Can: Use automation tools to keep your business running smoothly while you recover. Schedule social media posts, set up out-of-office email replies, and consider using task management software to keep everything organised. If you have team members, delegate tasks that you usually handle to them. If you’re a solo business owner, see if a trusted peer can temporarily take over some responsibilities or help with urgent matters.
4. Focus on Light Tasks When You Feel Up To It: If you’re in the “kind-of-functional” phase of illness, focus on light tasks that don’t require too much energy. Answer emails, organise your calendar, or take care of simple paperwork. Avoid deep-focus or strategic work until you’re fully recovered, as you may not be able to give it your best effort.
5. Keep Hydrated and Nourished – Even While Working from Bed: If you’re able to work from home, make sure you’re keeping hydrated and eating well. Warm herbal teas, broths, and easy-to-digest foods like soups or oatmeal can be comforting and nourishing when you’re not feeling your best. Keep a bottle of water and a few healthy snacks by your side to stay fuelled without much effort.
6. Use This Time to Reassess and Reflect: Sometimes, being forced to slow down due to illness can be a blessing in disguise. Use the quiet time to reassess your priorities and business goals. Are there any processes that could be improved to avoid future stress? Would delegating more or investing in certain tools make your business more resilient? Jot down thoughts or ideas you have during your downtime – they might spark inspiration once you’re back to full strength.

Returning to Full Capacity: Take It Slow

Once you’re starting to feel better, don’t rush back into your full workload right away. Ease back gradually to avoid a relapse. Catch up on essential tasks first and leave non-urgent projects until you’re back to 100%.

Remember, a healthy business is only possible when the business owner is healthy. Take care of yourself during this season of change, a nd your business will be stronger for it. Spring’s unpredictable weather may bring challenges, but with the right precautions and mindset, you can keep your business – and yourself – in top shape all season long.

Heather Knewstubb

Time Genie Support Services for Creative and Educational Businesss

Kapiti Coast

New Zealand

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