I’ve been thinking recently about all the ways the Alexander Technique supports and helps me as a self-employed woman in business–a solo entrepreneur (or even “solopreneur”) as we seem to be called these days. This may seem pretty obvious–after all, my business is teaching the Alexander Technique! There are, however, many ways in which it helps me in the background, behind the scenes—so much so that I’ve come to think of it as my “secret helper!”

Doing Administrative Tasks

The Alexander Technique helps me in very practical ways in the way I coordinate myself at my desk, reading, writing, using the phone, and maybe especially working at my computer. Whatever your business these days, some of your time will almost inevitably be spent at a computer. Being able to spend time doing the necessary tasks without undue tension, fatigue, and even pain, is a huge benefit not only to my wellbeing, but also to my ability to operate my business efficiently. After all, if I’m operating efficiently I’m much more capable of doing the work necessary for my business to operate efficiently too.

Presenting Myself with Confidence

Through my knowledge of the Alexander Technique both my confidence, and the way I come across to others, have greatly improved. As a naturally more shy and introverted person, the Alexander Technique has enabled and empowered me to open up, and let go of the anxious- or nervous-type body language that comes with tightening up and shrinking in on myself. Conversely it also helps prevent the perceived aggression and over pushiness that we often resort to in order to cover up these habits. When I let myself release these things I am able to present myself with more authentic confidence and presence. I not only look this way, but actually start to feel more confident on the inside too. This is not to say I don’t experience nerves, or “performance anxiety” any more. The difference is, however, that these feelings don’t “own” me. I’ve come to LOVE teaching group classes and workshops, though networking is still more of a challenge. Having the Alexander Technique to back me up in situations where I don’t naturally feel confident makes it so much easier.

Managing Energy

Rather than pushing myself to the limit to get things done, the Alexander Technique has taught me work productively, yet efficiently. Using yourself – body and mind – efficiently means you’re using your energy more effectively. With the Alexander Technique I have learned to have a much greater awareness of myself. I’m better about taking appropriate breaks, and know how to use breaks constructively to help me be more productive in the long run. I’m more likely to use my time wisely—or at least more consciously—so I’m making reasoned choices about how and what I want to do. And for those times when you really do have to push through to get something done by an emergency deadline, the Alexander Technique helps me manage myself in a way that lessens fatigue, and also gives me great tools to help restore my equilibrium when the job is done.

Self Care

What the Alexander Technique really comes down to is SELF CARE. Whatever you are doing, the Alexander Technique can help you look after yourself as you do it – helping you move through work and life more comfortably, with less tension and greater ease. I find this especially helpful to me as a solo businesswoman. It can feel as if I have to do everything myself– because mostly I do! The Alexander Technique gives me support in so many ways, it really is my own secret helper.

For other “solopreneurs” out there, YOU are the most important asset you have. Taking care of yourself, therefore, is the best investment you can make in the future of your business. And in my opinion, the Alexander Technique is the best tool there is to support you in what you do!

And here’s Puffkin, my other “helper”

Over the next several blog posts I intend to write about these benefits in more detail, with tips and ideas for ways you can help yourself right away. In the meantime I already have some great resources on my website, including a very short audio to help you reduce stress and boost your confidence in just two minutes. Just sign up for my monthly newsletter (top of the sidebar to the right) and it will be sent to you free of charge.

If you’re in business or you are a “solopreneur,” what are some of your main concerns and challenges, especially with regard to how you manage yourself, body and mind? Do you think women face special challenges? If you’ve had experience with the Alexander Technique, have you found it helpful? And if so, how? I’d love to hear from you in the comments below.