Running your own business can be incredibly rewarding, but it also comes with many challenges and stresses. The constant hustle of never feeling as if you’ve done all that is necessary to succeed, coupled with having to learn new things and the pressure of needing to earn a living all compound to effect your mental health. Prioritising your mental health will put you in a strong position to manage those challenges and help you to bounce back from any unexpected developments along the way.
Being realistic about your business idea, your personal strengths and gaps in your knowledge as well as the pressures that come with being the person responsible for the health of your business will help you to prepare for any difficulties in advance.
Get reliable advice both professionally and personally before you invest too much time and money into your idea. Mistakes will happen, but viewing them as learning opportunities rather than failures will help you keep a strong mindset. Engaging a business coach or mentor could be a good way to help you with both practical and emotional set-backs.
Self-care is often overlooked by people in business who are working long, hard hours to bring their dreams to reality. Taking dedicated time off to refuel and refresh will be vital to keep you going for the long haul. Find your ‘thing’ that brings you back to life and you’ll thank yourself for investing in your wellbeing. Make decisions that you’ll be happy with in 10 years’ time when it comes to choosing how to use your time off.
Connecting with others is vital to combat isolation. Other business owners will have insights and expertise to share with you. These people will also know how important it is to celebrate the wins along the way. They will be a great resource no matter where you’re at in your business. Joining a small business network can have many benefits for your business, but it’s also helpful for you as a person trying to achieve their goals. Going forward, these networks – online or in person – will provide you a space to give back and help other business owners. It’s not a one way street.
Monitor your mental health. If you notice signs of stress, anxiety or depression, get some help from a professional. You may be so engrossed with your business that you don’t notice signs of poor mental health. It is wise to give someone who is not your partner (business or intimate) permission to ask how you are going and to be able to sensitively suggest external support if you need it.
Beyond Blue has a mental health resource for people in business called New Access. Check it out for more support: https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/newaccess-mental-health-coaching/
Celebrate all the progress you are making in your business whenever you can. You’re working hard, and the wins are a direct result of your effort. So, pause and acknowledge your success.
Running your own business requires resilience, dedication and commitment. The consistent effort required to succeed will take a toll on your mental health if you are not careful. Put the supports you’ll need in place as early as possible so that you have the best chance of achieving your business goals.
