Tom recorded this episode from the car on the way to Manchester, so forgive the odd bit of background noise. But the message in this one is well worth hearing.
As the 30 podcasts in 30 days challenge nears the finish line, Tom reflects on a feeling most self-employed people know too well: reaching the point where you think, “I’ve had enough of this.” Not because you are lazy. Not because you do not care. But because you are tired, overloaded, and running on empty.
In this episode, Tom talks honestly about burnout, ADHD, business pressure, phone habits, dopamine hits, morning routines, evening routines, and why looking after yourself is not some nice little extra. It is essential if you want your business, your family life, and your brain to keep moving forward.
He shares the simple habits that have helped him avoid getting back to that point, including keeping the phone out of the bedroom, starting the day with intention, planning the most important tasks first, protecting your best working hours, switching off properly at night, and even taking no-phone holidays.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Why so many business owners regularly feel like quitting, even when they are still showing up and doing the work.
How phone use, emails, scrolling and constant notifications can keep your brain stuck in a cycle of looking for the next hit.
Why the way you start your day can shape how focused, calm and productive you feel for the rest of it.
How Tom structures his mornings to get his best work done before meetings, calls and distractions take over.
Why finishing your day properly matters, especially if you are trying to be present with your family instead of half-watching TV while checking your phone.
The value of creating proper recovery time for your brain, including business detox weekends and no-phone holidays.
Why looking after yourself is not selfish when you run a business. It is part of keeping the business healthy.
Memorable Quote
“If you operate in burnout, your business will not move forward anywhere near as quick as when you take a bit of accountability and look after you.”
Speaker Information
Tom Cockerill is the co-founder of Cockerill & Co and host of The UK Flooring Podcast. Through the podcast, events, training and the Cockerill & Co community, Tom works with flooring retailers and contractors to help them improve their businesses, their confidence, and the way they plan for the future.
In this episode, he shares a personal and practical message for anyone who feels like they are constantly pushing through, but never properly recovering.
Where to Find The UK Flooring Podcast
Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6uzIAmYAKCv0B3TKu0rJzd
Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-uk-flooring-podcast/id1602508915
Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CockerillandCo
Find out more about Cockerill & Co: https://www.cockerillandco.co.uk/
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