Home topics finance advice Image Credit: Annie Spratt on Unsplash Advice Workplace Advice How small businesses can better manage boundaries Lucas Finch October 11, 2021 Small businesses across Australia are feeling the weight of the past year and a half. Burnout is on the rise, and business owners report feelings of anxiety and stress at high levels. In fact, seventy per cent say this period has taken more of an emotional toll on them than ever before. Many small businesses in lockdown-affected areas have once again shifted their approach to operate online and are facing added pressures to stay up-and-running and connect with customers in new ways. This means boundaries, the limits and rules we set for ourselves in relationships, which were once clear, can become blurred. What does that look like? It could be anything from the expectation to respond online at all hours to take on work beyond your usual scope. Even at the best of times, small business owners are familiar with the intermixing of work and life challenges. Setting and managing healthy boundaries can reduce stress, improve mental wellbeing and ultimately allow you to bring your best self to your work. But it can be hard to know where to start and how to communicate them. A smoother way to manage expectations This year’s lockdown has been more challenging despite being better prepared, according to Nina Lee, owner of Sydney-based hair salon Extra Silky . “It feels harder this year, and small businesses are feeling the