5 Ways to Reduce Stress as a Craft Business Owner

Owning and running a handmade business can be quite a task and sometimes a bit stressful. Yes, we love crafting, but it’s not all glue and fabric. There’s also photo editing, applying for shows and opportunities, shipping out product, etc.

Over on the Creative Income Blog, Rebecca George shared Five Simple Ways to Reduce Stress as a Crafty Business Owner. Read them all here.

I know all too well the stress that comes with running a business. Between creating new products, managing orders, and handling customer inquiries, it can feel overwhelming at times. However, over the years I have learned some helpful tips for reducing stress and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Here are 5 ways to reduce stress as a craft business owner:

Set Realistic Goals and Prioritize Tasks
One of the biggest sources of stress for me has been feeling like I need to do everything at once. However, I have found that setting realistic goals and prioritizing tasks can help to alleviate this feeling. I like to make a to-do list for each day, focusing on the most important tasks first. This way, I can feel accomplished and productive without overwhelming myself.

Take Breaks and Practice Self-Care
It can be easy to get caught up in work and forget to take care of yourself. However, I have found that taking breaks and practicing self-care can actually increase productivity and reduce stress. Whether it’s taking a walk outside, doing a yoga class, or simply taking a few minutes to relax and recharge, it’s important to take care of your mental and physical health.

Delegate Tasks and Outsource When Possible
As a craft business owner, it can be tempting to do everything yourself. However, I have learned that delegating tasks and outsourcing when possible can actually save time and reduce stress. Whether it’s hiring a virtual assistant or working with a manufacturer to produce your products, it’s important to recognize when you need help and reach out to others for support.

Stay Organized and Create Systems
Keeping everything organized and having clear systems in place can help to reduce stress and increase efficiency. Whether it’s using a project management tool, keeping track of inventory, or creating templates for emails, having systems in place can make a big difference. Personally, I like to use Trello to keep track of my to-do lists and projects, as well as to collaborate with others.

Connect with Other Craft Business Owners
Running a craft business can be isolating at times, which is why it’s important to connect with other business owners. Whether it’s through social media groups or in-person meetups, connecting with others in your industry can help to provide support and reduce stress. Personally, I have found that connecting with other craft business owners has not only helped to reduce stress, but also provided valuable insights and advice.

Running a craft business can be challenging and stressful at times. However, by setting realistic goals, practicing self-care, delegating tasks, staying organized, and connecting with others in your industry, you can reduce stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Remember to take care of yourself and prioritize your mental and physical health, as this will ultimately lead to a more successful and fulfilling business.

Here are 20 affirmations I put together for your small handmade business – use these sayings to create your own handmade affirmations or printables. 

“My creativity knows no bounds and my handmade business is a testament to that.”
“I am worthy of success and my small handmade business will thrive.”
“I am grateful for every sale and every customer that supports my handmade business.”
“I trust my instincts and my small handmade business will flourish because of it.”
“I am capable of creating beautiful and unique handmade products.”
“My handmade business is a reflection of my passion and dedication.”
“I am deserving of recognition for the hard work I put into my handmade business.”
“I am proud of my small handmade business and the impact it has on my customers.”
“My handmade products bring joy and happiness to those who purchase them.”
“I have the courage to take risks and grow my small handmade business.”
“My handmade business is constantly evolving and improving with each passing day.”
“I am confident in my ability to create products that stand out in a crowded market.”
“I am focused on achieving my goals for my small handmade business.”
“I am surrounded by a supportive community of fellow makers and entrepreneurs.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to share my passion for handmade products with the world.”
“I am committed to providing high-quality and ethically-made products to my customers.”
“I believe in the power of my handmade business to make a positive impact on the world.”
“I am capable of overcoming any challenge that comes my way as a small handmade business owner.”
“My handmade business is a source of pride and inspiration for me.”
“I am constantly learning and growing as a maker and entrepreneur, and my handmade business reflects that.”