It’s the most wonderful time of the year…when too many small business owners get stressed out.

Running a small business is a juggling act in itself. Add in family and social commitments and you’ve got a recipe for entrepreneur year-end burnout.

No matter how busy you are this festive season, please remember this: You are the most important asset to your business.

Try to reduce your stress by following these tips:

  • Defer invitations. We all feel pressure to “see everyone” before or during the holidays. Why not see them in January instead? Your deferred guest will likely appreciate one less December appointment.
  • Schedule downtime. It’s your holiday, too. Amidst all the parties and family time and shopping and traveling and planning for next year…whew! You need a break. Give yourself at least a day to do absolutely nothing.
  • Unplug. It’s hard to unwrap presents while texting, so turn off your devices for a few days. Activate a vacation notification on your email to inform people when you shall resume communications. The world of work shall survive without you for a few days.
  • Remove tasks. Try to do less instead of more. Review your long task list and see what you can eliminate or postpone.

Be good to yourself this holiday season and you’ll be in much better shape to tackle those business challenges and opportunities waiting for you in 2011.

BizLaunch Webinar. To find one near you, please visit http://www.staples.ca/bizlaunch today.

ROGER PIERCE is passionate about helping entrepreneurs achieve success. Co-founder of Canada’s largest small business training company, BizLaunch.ca, he’s launched eleven small businesses of his own and personally experienced what he calls “the good, the bad and the ugly” sides of entrepreneurship.

BizLaunch advises thousands of Canadian startups through its popular how-to seminars and webinars delivered with partners such as STAPLES.