The priority of every entrepreneur is attaining heights in their business, breaking barriers, hitting targets and making money.

Therefore, entrepreneurs work very hard, round the clock. Ever heard the viral saying  “I quit my 9-5 job to run my business, now I work 24/7”?

This is the case for many business owners. As a matter of fact, one of the major things that make the news about big names in business is how they get little to no sleep. Motivational speakers always talk about how focused entrepreneurs do not sleep.

While the whole “sleep is for the weak” motto might sound inspiring and motivating on the surface, it is also very dangerous to live by.

Every human needs rest. We are not built to work tirelessly round the clock. It is important to be passionate about putting in the work, but it is even more important to make your health a priority.

If you don’t give your body the rest it needs, it will take it by force.

Here are a few tips to stay on top of your health:

Get regular checkups. Most of the time, because you are busy working so hard, you don’t always have the time to eat healthily. Check your blood pressure, monitor your cholesterol. You don’t want any surprises.

You are what you eat. Certain foods and fruits have specific effects on our physical and psychological alertness. An example is Bananas. Bananas are not only rich in potassium, but also contain tryptophan that is converted into serotonin, which helps you relax and improves your mood. They’re sometimes called the “happy fruit”. Eating the right foods in a balanced diet will help you stay healthy and alert.

Exercise. Most of the time, people confuse hard work with exercise. It doesn’t matter how much you exert yourself and get the sweat out in your daily business, exercise is an important routine. Exercise is not limited to heavy lifting and cardio; it could be as little as taking walks or light jogging. It has the effect of not only keeping you fit but keeping your mind clear and your body relaxed.

Sleep. Contrary to what motivators make everyone believe, sleep is not for the weak. As a matter of fact, sleep is for the strong. Sleep is how you relax your brain; sleep is how you recharge your body. The less sleep you can get, the less productive you are in the long run.

Create time for yourself. Find time for a hobby or recreational activity. You are just as important as your business.

Neglecting your health eventually leads to burnout. This is avoidable.

Taking care of yourself is just as important as making money.