It is a normal part of the work at home freelancer, or the small business owner. It comes without warning. At first the business owner notices their productivity level decreasing. Then they notice they have a hard time solving problems. Next, they feel tired and start experiencing pain in their neck, shoulders and back.



There is no reason to panic. This is called ‘The Crash' and is quite common among work at home business owners. It can be frightening the first time it happens, but The Crash is nothing to worry about. It is contributed to tiredness and what has been called a Confidence Crash.

Many professionals start their own businesses. They succeed to a certain level and never expand beyond that, stagnating, and becoming frustrated.

The business is expanding. They are making more money than ever. They found amazing levels of success and earned more revenue than they ever dreamed. Then one day they wake up with a company that has grown larger than they ever imagined and it hits – the question – can they run a business this big.

At times our confidence is shaky. A sudden lack of confidence can be triggered by missing a deadline, losing a client, receiving a bad review, even something simple like spilling coffee on your keyboard. When you crash it is usually because you lack sleep, a proper diet, or a supportive network.

Networking

Most ‘new' small business owners hit their first crash before they learn why it is necessary to join a networking group. A good web one with a forum, some coaching articles, and where a business owner can make friends is one of the most valuable tools a business owner will ever find.

Most professional small business owners make a network of 3 – 10 friends. These people talk on IM when needed. Sometime they just stay connected. They email each other when they have problem. They work together sharing resources and skills.

Managing a Crash

The first step is to stop. Take a day, or a few days off. Most of the emotional problems behind The Crash cause depression like symptoms. They are often triggered by the unrealistic fear that if you take time off, if you slow down, if you sleep, then your business will suffer.

Do not work longer than you can ‘comfortably.' This is very important. Taking a few hours off every day, for a week or two, will put most small business owners back on track, but those who push will struggle for months before they recover.

The important thing to remember is ‘don't despair.' Do not over eat, drink more, or resort to prescription drugs.

There are several proven techniques to help small business owners remain ‘on their game.'

Journaling is the most common. Sometimes, just seeing how much work is accomplished in a week can help you see why you are so tire. The best way to journal is to keep a book where you log everything you do and what you accomplish.

Showing gratitude and being nice sounds rather redundant, but good relationships and being relaxed around others will help you overcome The Crash quickly. Sometimes changing your behavior can boost your confidence. In fact, that is the premise behind life coaching. Life coaches charge more than $500 a month to help people change their mindset and their behavior.

Start a new relationship. Try to find people who are ambitious as you are. There are three types of people: those who are ambitious and willing to succeed, those who want others to do it for them, and those who are dreaming big but don't want to work.

Taking a risk is important. It doesn't need to be a big risk, just remind yourself that you are an entrepreneur, with the spirit needed to succeed.