Being self-employed or part of startup is very stressful thing, every day is a roller coaster of emotions.

There is stress in any type of work, however, I have found that being self-employed or part of a small company can be more stressful since there is less people to share the burden of what you are trying to accomplish.

I have also found that in digital media & technology related businesses that you feel this stress more intensely because the swings between the highs and lows happen much more quickly, hence the phrase "The roller coaster of emotions".

It has been my experience that this occurs on a daily basis and can be a very dangerous thing to manage. So here some tips:

• Team lunches: you don't have to do them every day but once or twice a week at the very least can be very helpful. They help build team morale.

• Off-site events: plan a monthly off site event, something fun, like going to play pool or paintball.

• Exercise: be it walking, running, working out at gym or doing yoga. Lead by example with this, & don't frown on employees doing this during the work day.

• Play space: if you have the ability then set up a play space in the office for employees to let off steam. Video games, pool table, foosball table etc.

I have no doubt that they are many other ways to help alleviate a stressful work environment hopefully these tips which I have found useful in the past will be of help to you. If you have any other tips please share them.