Embracing a Nervous System-Friendly Approach with Tech & Systems in Your Business
Are tech and systems in your business causing stress, frustration, or even avoidance? You’re not alone.
Many small business owners in the wellbeing and coaching world are already incorporating a nervous system-friendly approach into their client work, but tech and systems often get overlooked. The truth is, the way we interact with technology can have a significant impact on our nervous system, influencing our stress levels and overall experience of running a business.
The Link Between Tech, Systems, and Your Nervous System
It might not seem obvious at first, but the way we approach tech and systems can trigger stress responses. Many business owners have had experiences where they tried a new platform, found it overwhelming, and then avoided it altogether. That avoidance can stall business growth - whether it’s a newsletter that never gets sent, a podcast that never launches, or a booking system that remains manual and time-consuming.
These responses often stem from a nervous system reaction - feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, or even shutting down. If you’ve ever felt an intense resistance to dealing with tech in your business, it’s not just in your head - it’s in your body, too. Recognising this can be the first step in shifting how we approach systems and making them work for us rather than against us.
Why Avoidance Can Hold You Back
Without the right tech and systems, we often take on too much ourselves, leading to burnout. Automations and streamlined processes - like scheduling tools, email marketing platforms, and client management systems - aren't just about efficiency; they create a more sustainable business model.
However, many business owners hesitate to set up these systems because they’ve had past experiences of overwhelm. The key is to approach tech in a way that supports your nervous system rather than adding stress to it.
How to Make Tech & Systems More Nervous System-Friendly
1. Give Yourself More Time
One of the biggest stressors when setting up new systems is rushing. If you expect to master a platform in 30 minutes, frustration can quickly set in. Instead, allow yourself space to learn. Treat it as an exploration rather than a race.
2. Take It Step by Step
Rather than trying to implement everything at once, break tasks down into smaller steps. Watch a short tutorial, experiment with one feature, and build from there. Over time, this approach reduces overwhelm and makes tech feel more manageable.
3. Step Away When You Feel Overwhelmed
If frustration builds, take a break. Stepping away doesn’t mean giving up - it means giving your nervous system a chance to reset. When you return, you’ll likely find the task easier to handle.
4. Find the Right Tools for You
Not every platform works for everyone. If a system feels overly complicated, ask yourself if there’s a simpler alternative. The best system is the one you’ll actually use.
5. Work with Your Nervous System, Not Against It
Notice how you feel when working on tech. Are you calm and grounded, or is frustration creeping in? Your internal dialogue can be a clue. When you feel capable and confident, progress happens more smoothly. When negativity arises - “I can’t do this,” “It’s too much” - that’s a sign to pause and regulate before continuing.
The Bigger Picture: A Nervous System-Friendly Business
Creating a more easeful relationship with tech doesn’t just benefit you - it improves the experience for your clients, too. If your systems feel intuitive and simple, they will likely be more user-friendly for your audience.
A well-structured website, a seamless booking system, and clear email automation all contribute to a more supportive, stress-free experience for both you and your clients.
Conclusion:
Tech and systems don’t have to be a source of frustration. By approaching them with patience, flexibility, and nervous system awareness, you can create a business that works for you - not one that drains your energy.
Have you noticed tech overwhelm in your own business?
What is your biggest takeaway?
For more support:
If you are interested in support, I’ve created a new 1:1 programme - From Overwhelm to Online Confidence - for female business owners in the coaching and wellbeing space who’ve built success in-person but feel stuck taking their business online. This programme helps you move from tech overwhelm to confidently running your online systems in a sustainable way. You'll gain clarity on the tools you actually need, hands-on support to set them up, and the confidence to manage them yourself, so your business can grow with ease.
You can find out more and book a free Call here:
Let’s Connect:
Sustainable Business Community:
If you are a female business owner looking for resources around tech and systems as well as support around working with more ease, I invite you to join my free facebook group “Sustainable Business Community - for heart-centred, female business owners”
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