Running your own business can be one of the most rewarding experiences, but it also comes with unique challenges that can take a toll on your mental health. As entrepreneurs, we often pour everything into our work including our time, energy, and emotions sometimes at the expense of our well-being. First, let me say that I certainly don’t have it all figured out; but, since this is Mental Health Awareness Month, it’s the perfect time to discuss how to balance the demands of business ownership while prioritizing mental health. Recognizing the mental health challenges of entrepreneurship is a start. Awareness is key!
Entrepreneurship is exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. The pressure to succeed, financial stress, and the unpredictability of business can lead to anxiety, burnout, and even depression. Let’s face it when you’re the boss, the work never truly stops. It’s easy to let business consume every aspect of your life; and whether you’re starting out or scaling up, financial concerns can cause significant anxiety.
While I spend a lot of time on the phone, I confess that I lack daily social interaction and support sometimes it’s just nice to brainstorm with a colleague. I miss that; so, I joined two networking groups to help me feel connected. It’s fine to feel these emotions and acknowledge your reality as a solopreneur or entrepreneur. Honestly, acknowledgement is the first step toward managing these types of mental health challenges.
Overcoming some of these challenges for me has taken some intentionality on my part. I set boundaries because it’s tempting to work around the clock. However, setting clear boundaries between work and personal time is critical for you and your family and friends. I literally schedule in my calendar downtime, and please don’t feel guilty for stepping away from your business. Taking time off doesn’t mean you’re neglecting your work. It just means you’re ensuring you have the energy to go the distance.
I ask for help. Trying to do everything yourself will only lead to burnout. If possible, delegate tasks or outsource aspects of your business that drain your energy. For me that meant hiring a virtual assistant, using really effective apps to help me run my business; and, sometimes I lean on my powerful network on friends when I’m stuck. They always make a huge difference. Asking for help is not a weakness, it’s smart.
Also, focus on self-care and not just only during Self-Care Awareness month! It’s a necessity for entrepreneurs. Whether it’s exercise, meditation, journaling, or simply stepping outside for fresh air, prioritize activities that help you recharge. A spa service always helps me regain a healthy mind and body which directly impacts how effectively I can run my business and, honestly, my household.
Mental health is just as important as physical health, and professional support can provide the tools you need to manage stress effectively. Many entrepreneurs measure success by revenue, growth, and achievements. While these are important, true success also means maintaining well-being, happiness, and a fulfilling life outside of work. Mental health and business success should both be prioritized because ultimately that is when you create a sustainable and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.
This Mental Health Awareness Month, take a step back and assess your well-being. Running a business is a marathon, not a sprint, and taking care of yourself is the best investment you can make. If you need help to coach you through your priorities, please email me and we can talk about your challenges. Now, please do something for you today that you miss doing! Cheers to Mental Health Awareness Month!
Sonya Ruff Jarvis is the Managing Member of Jarvis Consultants, LLC, bringing 30+ years of expertise in strategic development, marketing, event management, DEI, executive coaching, and board advisement for Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits. She is recognized for creating innovative business solutions, including a customer engagement program adopted globally to enhance attendance, exhibitor satisfaction, and loyalty at tradeshows. A four-time author, her works include Mindful Minutes: A Marketer's Journey Through Business. She holds an MBA from New York Institute of Technology and a BA from Hiram College, with international studies in Rome. Sonya resides in Connecticut with her husband and daughter.
WAYS TO WORK WITH JARVIS CONSULTANTS!
Strategies: We help small to mid-size companies develop business, marketing, and event management strategies.
Business Coaching: We coach Founders of small to medium size businesses who want to take their organization to the next level.
Project Management: We support companies that don’t have the personnel resources internally; we help them create projects from the development stages to implementation; and, a tactical management process.
New Business Development: We help clients research and explore new business opportunities and/or emerging trends that can be optimized and generate incremental revenue including content.
Contact sonya@jarvisconsultants.com