Managing your mental health as an entrepreneur
Building and managing your own business can be exhilarating and incredibly fulfilling, but it usually comes at a price; your time, energy and mental health.
The pressure of wearing multiple hats, making big decisions on your own, and the lack of precedent or guidance on what exactly you need to do is incredibly daunting, and for most entrepreneurs this can result in debilitating mental health issues. A 2015 study conducted by Freeman et al. on over 200 entrepreneurs shows that 30% were more likely to report a lifetime history of depression. 26% of participants were likely dealing with ADHD and 27% with anxiety. If these issues are left unchecked, they can very quickly begin to impact your business by affecting your leadership, self-confidence and, decision making skills. Here, we discuss a few simple ways you can proactively keep your mental health in check:
1. Take time to refresh your mind
While mid-day spa visits or hour-long meditation sessions may not be realistically possible for all of us, it is important to take time to disconnect. A growing body of research shows that taking breaks mid-task can boost creativity, a process known as incubation. It allows your mind to process new ideas and information just below the conscious and clear out older ideas or stimulus that may be blocking your mind. This break could come in the form of alternating between tasks, taking time to switch off during lunch, or just going for a walk outside. When you’re growing your business and caught up in the momentum of the process, it may seem difficult or unnecessary to incorporate regular breaks into your schedule, but it’s just the refresh your mind needs to continue to work creatively and efficiently.
2. Treat your body right
The saying goes: “a work-out a day can keep the therapist away”, and it’s not wrong. Exercise has been proven to be an effective solution for many mental illnesses, including depression and anxiety, and has the positive side effect of improving your mood. Pouring all your time into creating and growing your business may seem like the right thing to do, but healthy eating and sleeping habits paired with a good work-out regime will sustain you both physically and mentally in the long run.
3. Ask for help
Coming out with mental health issues often comes with the stigma of being perceived as lacking toughness or resilience, especially when you’re in a position of leadership, but maintaining the perception of “toughness” demands a heavy price. In reality, mental health disorders are common, and the World Health Organization reported that 1 in 4 people will be affected by a mental or neurological disorder at some point in their lifetime. Dealing with your mental health can start with something as simple as reaching out to a friend or mentor and working your way up to therapy.
4. Think long-term
Like building a business, building your mind requires regular effort and work. Mental health issues can’t be treated in a day and it’s important to be patient and proactive when it comes to dealing with such issues. The decisions you make now can affect you well into the future, so take the time to create sustainable habits that have a positive long-term impact. Regularly remind yourself that it’s okay to take time off, to put yourself and your personal life first, and reach out to get the support you need. Your business depends on your ability to make effective decisions and lead, which in turn is dependent on a healthy body and mind.
