WiT Stories: Navigating Mental Health as an Entrepreneur
by MARCELA QUINTERO AGUIRRE, CEO & Founder, Probity Marketing
As the CEO and founder of Probity Marketing, I’ve had the unique opportunity to connect with numerous entrepreneurs and business owners, each with their own set of challenges and triumphs. While my personal journey has thankfully been relatively smooth in terms of mental health, I’ve witnessed and listened to stories from peers and clients that shed light on the significant mental health challenges entrepreneurs often face.
The Hidden Battles of Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship is often seen as a thrilling venture full of potential and excitement. However, beneath the success stories lies a less talked about reality: the mental strain that can accompany managing a business. From dealing with uncertainty and financial pressures, to the loneliness that can come from leading a company, the psychological toll can be substantial.
Prioritizing mental health ensures our entrepreneurial journey is not only successful but sustainable and fulfilling.
1. Overwhelming Stress and Burnout
Many entrepreneurs I’ve spoken to describe the intense stress that comes from juggling multiple roles and responsibilities. Burnout becomes a real threat when there’s no off switch for their workday, as the line between personal and professional life blurs.
2. Isolation and Loneliness
Running a business can be isolating, especially for solo entrepreneurs who feel they must shoulder every burden alone. This isolation can lead to feelings of loneliness, which can exacerbate stress and affect mental health.
3. Fear of Failure and Perfectionism
The pressure to succeed is immense, particularly when the livelihoods of others depend on your decisions. The fear of failure and a self-imposed need to be perfect can create a paralyzing anxiety that hampers decision-making and personal well-being.
Strategies to Support Mental Health
Hearing these challenges has motivated me to prioritize mental health not only within my company but also in my interactions with other business owners. Here are some strategies that I’ve seen work well within my network:
1. Building a Support Network
Creating a support network of fellow business owners can provide a shared space to express challenges and successes. Regular meetups or online forums can lessen the feeling of isolation. A prime example of such a supportive network is Women in Toys, Licensing, and Entertainment (WiT). This organization has been a tremendous resource in my life, offering a community of supportive women who understand the unique challenges of entrepreneurship. For any entrepreneur looking to feel supported and connected, I highly recommend finding a similar group that resonates with your values and needs.
2. Setting Realistic Goals and Expectations
It’s important to set achievable goals to prevent the overwhelming pressure that can lead to burnout. Breaking larger objectives into smaller, manageable tasks can help maintain a sense of control and accomplishment.
3. Promoting Work-Life Balance
Encouraging a culture that values work-life balance is crucial. This includes setting boundaries for work hours, encouraging time off, and promoting mental health days.
4. Seeking Professional Help
I advocate for professional guidance, whether it’s coaching, therapy, or mentoring. Personally, I have been seeing a professional psychologist consistently for nearly two years. This commitment of at least one hour a month dedicated solely to my mental health has been incredibly beneficial. It provides not only support but also a structured space to focus on personal well-being, reinforcing the value of professional guidance in maintaining mental health.
Setting realistic goals helps mitigate pressure and fosters a sense of accomplishment amid challenges.
Strengthening Our Collective Resilience
At Probity Marketing, we specialize in amplifying the voices of companies making a positive impact in the world. Part of that impact involves advocating for the well-being of the entrepreneurs behind these companies. By sharing these insights and promoting mental health resources, we aim to strengthen the resilience of our business community.
The entrepreneurial journey doesn’t have to be a solitary one fraught with hidden struggles. By bringing these conversations to the forefront, we can create a more supportive and understanding business environment, where mental well-being is prioritized as much as financial success.
In fostering a community where entrepreneurs support each other in all aspects of health, we not only enhance our businesses but also enrich our lives. Let’s commit to being open about our challenges and proactive in seeking support, paving the way for a healthier, more vibrant entrepreneurial community.
