As an esthetician, we’ve all had the experience of an over-full schedule, with back-to-back clients and virtually no time to eat - never mind getting a bathroom break! And we realize that’s all part of the business of beauty. But if you’re finding that you are living an over scheduled, hectic, non-stop business life you’re on track for the crash that signals burnout.
Considering the current situation - post pandemic and many experiencing economic pressures, it may be hard these days to fit in the breaks you really need – whether it’s difficulty in finding and keeping reliable staff on board, keeping your client book filled (but not overflowing) and balancing everything that comes with running a spa business. However, there’s no industry we can thing of where self-care is an absolute must to stay on top of your game – your mental, emotional, and physical health, happiness and well-being.
We counsel our clients on the importance of managing stress and its effects on the body-mind. So how will you provide the quality service you’re known for if you aren’t practicing the same kind of self-care? Whenever possible, schedule time between your clients, realizing that clients can and do show up late, or may need a little extra time during their treatment. A little space in between can make all the difference in your day.
We recommend the following tips to our students while they’re learning to navigate the clinic floor and managing the client ebb and flow.
Get a good night’s sleep
Sleep is at the top of the list for just about everything your body needs – and there’s no better prescription for mind-body-spirit rejuvenation. Esthetics is fully both a physical and mental profession. The recommended amount of sleep is between 7 and 8 hours a night, but it varies from person to person. You know what you need to feel good, so keep that in mind and begin to wind down about an hour before you plan to hit the pillow. Check out of TV and electronics, lower the lights and have a cup of herb tea and/or a soothing bath. Ease your mind away from the day’s problems and events and let your mind and body relax into a restful night’s sleep.
Make time to eat and hydrate.
You need a steady supply of energy to run through your day, so pre-planning food and drink is a must. While it may feel like this is another thing to fit into your schedule, it is well worth it. Snacks, a simple lunch meal and lots of healthy hydration should be on your daily menu. If you absolutely can’t face shopping an preparing food, try a meal service or healthy prepped food option. Don’t forget the water. Aim for about one half your body weight in ounces daily.
Take a break.
Whenever possible, block out at least 15 minutes between clients as a buffer. Schedule into your day (and then actually take it!) a 30 minute or longer break for lunch, light exercise, rest, and meditation, or whatever rejuvenates you.
If you make it an appointment and put it into your schedule, you’re more likely to do it. Space between clients is critical for breathing room. And breathing room means a better experience for your client too! You are an amazing professional, delivering your unique gift in ways that only you can deliver – with energy and intention. Making room for your own self-care will not only make you happier and healthier, it will transfer into better results for your clients, and stellar reviews for you.