Maintaining Mental Health Amidst The Hustle Of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurship is often glamorized as the ultimate career path, promising autonomy, innovation, and the potential for massive financial success. All of that can be true for some people. But taking the entrepreneurial road less traveled also comes with significant challenges and stressors that can be very damaging to mental health. Over 87% of entrepreneurs are dealing with at least one mental health issue, like depression, burnout, anxiety, poor work-life balance, or sleep disorders, according to independent research from Founder Reports.

It can be challenging for entrepreneurs to find ways to manage their well-being when dealing with external pressures. An estimated 75% of entrepreneurs experience pressure from the expectations of others, according to research and analysis on Entrepreneurs and Mental Health by Silvia Cavalcanti, former entrepreneur and CMO at Endeavor, a global community for high-growth founders. Yet, balancing business demands with maintaining personal well-being is crucial for sustainable success.

The Mental Health Challenges Of Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneurs are frequently under immense pressure. They must manage finances, navigate market fluctuations, and make critical decisions impacting their business survival and employees’ future.“The constant stress we face can quickly lead to burnout, anxiety and depression. I experienced it first hand when taking my third startup off the ground” says Cavalcanti. “The real challenge, though, is that most of us fear acknowledging our emotional struggles. We get trapped inside an unrealistic image of ourselves, and the next thing we know, an already stressful journey is made unbearable,” she adds. According to research by Endeavor, 54% of entrepreneurs consider mental health a taboo topic.

“This startup-above-all-else approach can lead to chronic stress, which wreaks havoc on entrepreneurs’ physical and mental health,” add Trish Cotter and Kathleen Stetson. Chronic stress can lead to a whole host of health problems throughout the body, impacting the nervous, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, and endocrine systems, according to the American Psychological Association. Understanding the signs of mental strain is the first step in addressing mental health. Symptoms can include chronic fatigue, insomnia, irritability, and a sense of hopelessness. Entrepreneurs may also experience physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach issues, and muscle tension. “Recognizing these signs early can prevent more severe mental health issues from developing. That’s why entrepreneurs need to understand the negative impact of chronic stress and have healthy coping strategies to alleviate them before they become overwhelming,” says Cavalcanti.

Strategies For Maintaining Mental Health

Fortunately, several proven strategies exist for improving your mental health as an entrepreneur. “The best mental health plan is one that adapts to your routine, as well as does not underestimate the significance of seeking external help when needed, whether from a coach, therapist, psychiatrist, circle of trust, or all of them,” says Cavalcanti.

While we’re talking about mental health and entrepreneurs, it’s important to remember that how leaders act can significantly influence the people they lead. “Unmanaged stress can lead to displays of negative emotions such as anger and irritability, which can reduce trust and confidence among the leaders,” says the APA. So, maintaining your mental health can also improve the workplace for your employees, leading to happier, more productive teams.

Establishing Boundaries

“Entrepreneurs often work long hours and find it challenging to disconnect. Setting specific work hours and sticking to them helps create a more balanced and healthier life. Also, creating a dedicated workspace separate from personal spaces can reinforce these boundaries,” says Danila De Stefano, CEO and Founder at Unobravo, a mental health platform with over 6,000 therapists worldwide.

Prioritizing Self-Care

“This one can be a challenge at first, but it is a requirement if you are serious about improving your mental health. Schedule regular breaks throughout the day. Put them on your calendar, even 10 minutes a few times a day. Take a short walk, practice deep breathing, or do something besides working for a few minutes,” De Stefano advises. Additionally, exercise regularly and eat a balanced diet as part of your self-care plan.

Setting Realistic Goals

While ambition drives entrepreneurship, setting unrealistic goals can fast-track burnout. “We all want to knock it out of the park, but it’s important to be realistic along the way. Set achievable milestones and celebrate small victories with your team. This will boost morale and provide a clear sense of progress,” says Cavalcanti.

Maintaining mental health amidst the hustle of entrepreneurship is not only possible but essential for long-term success. A healthy mind fosters creativity, resilience, and productivity, all of which are vital for thriving in the challenging world of entrepreneurship. Make your mental health a priority to improve every aspect of your life and business.