As an entrepreneur managing multiple businesses like FemFounder and Marquet Media, I've learned that mental health is as important as business strategy. One of my top tips is to prioritize self-care and set clear boundaries. Running a business can be all-consuming, but I make time for activities that recharge me, like exercise or reading. Disconnecting after working hours and on weekends is crucial to maintain balance. Another key practice is delegating tasks to my team, which helps reduce stress and allows me to focus on high-level goals. This eases my workload and empowers my team to grow and take ownership of their responsibilities. I've also learned to embrace imperfection-focusing on progress, not perfection, allows me to make and grow from mistakes. By taking care of my mental health and seeking balance, I can stay resilient and keep my businesses thriving.
Let me share some of the key practices that I follow to stay grounded, energized, and thriving as an entrepreneur. These aren't just tips-they're my go-to strategies for managing the chaos of running a business while still enjoying life. I Delegate and Outsource I've learned that trying to do it all myself is a fast track to burnout. I trust my team and outsource tasks that don't need my personal touch, like admin work or technical tasks. This frees me up to focus on what I do best-strategizing, creating, and connecting with my clients. Delegating isn't just smart business; it's essential for keeping my sanity. I Prioritize Self-Care Taking care of my body is non-negotiable. I make time for regular exercise , prioritize healthy meals, and protect my sleep schedule. These routines keep me energized, focused, and better equipped to handle the demands of running a business. When my physical health is on point, everything else falls into place. I Make Time for Family and Vacations Spending quality time with my family and taking vacations are must-haves in my life. It's not always easy to step away from work, but these moments of connection and rest help me recharge and gain fresh perspectives. Whether it's a weekend getaway or an afternoon with loved ones, I cherish these breaks from the hustle. I Practice Gratitude Gratitude is my secret weapon for keeping a positive mindset. Every day, I take a moment to reflect on what I'm thankful for-whether it's my amazing clients, a supportive team, or even just a quiet cup of coffee. This practice helps me stay grounded and reminds me to appreciate how far I've come. I Celebrate Progress Big wins, small wins-I celebrate them all! From landing a new client to simply checking off a challenging task, I take the time to acknowledge my efforts and accomplishments. It's so easy to focus on what's next, but I've found that celebrating progress keeps me motivated and reminds me that I'm moving in the right direction.
As an entrepreneur, I rely on a few key mental wellbeing techniques every day. Their effectiveness is so crucial that I honestly can't imagine handling the pressures of modern work life without them. Here are the top 3 strategies that help me stay balanced, focused, and prepared for whatever comes my way. Don't Take It Personally Working for yourself is deeply personal. You invest not just time and money, but your heart and soul into your business, hoping for its success. So naturally, when someone criticises or rejects what you offer, it can feel like a personal attack. The key is to listen to feedback without letting it impact you on a personal level. Remember, people's comments and actions often say more about their perspectives and issues than about your worth or your business's value. In those moments of feeling undervalued or criticised, empower yourself by choosing not to take things personally. Just Do the Next Thing Operating a business means constantly juggling multiple tasks, which can get overwhelming. When I find myself feeling bogged down, I take a moment to clear my physical and mental space. This might mean organising my workspace or engaging in a brief mindfulness exercise to reset. Then, I focus solely on the next task at hand, avoiding the trap of worrying about future responsibilities. This approach helps maintain mental clarity and reduces stress, enabling me to tackle one thing at a time with full presence and efficiency. Learn How to Switch Off Mastering the art of disconnecting from work requires practice and intention. Constantly thinking about your business can clutter your mind and drain your energy. I've learned that giving myself permission to take breaks is not just beneficial but essential. Connecting with the deeper reasons behind my work helps me justify these pauses and reinforces the importance of rest. During breaks, I occasionally jot down important thoughts to ensure I don't forget them later, but I mainly focus on recharging. This downtime is crucial for maintaining a clear, ready mind that can innovate and solve problems more effectively when I return to work. Applying these approaches has transformed my professional life and my general wellbeing. Adopting new habits takes time and effort, but the long-term benefits of these mental wellbeing strategies are profound and lasting. They eventually become second nature and fundamentally enhance how you navigate both business and personal landscapes.
There is a lot of freedom with being an entrepreneur, but there is a huge mental load as well. To keep this in check, I intentionally do a few things: - Work with a trained therapist regularly who specializes in helping people who run businesses like mine. I truly believe everyone can benefit from therapy, and it's even more valuable when you work with someone who really gets what you're going through. - Maintain a network of other business owners who run companies similar to mine. These networks take time to build, but having friends who face the same problems and challenges you do is priceless. I have a handful of women who I can call out of the blue to vent to, celebrate with, or ask for help when things get tough. - Keep my immediate team in the loop about the inner workings of the business. No one knows your business better than you and your team, and I think it's important to have transparent conversations with your employees. It doesn't mean I share everything, but I do talk openly about things that aren't working or where were running into problems. They often offer an outside, less emotional perspective that helps me get my head on straight. - Exercise regularly, eat well, drink a lot of water, and get good rest. It's so cliche to say this, but it's so true. I make it a point to get to yoga 5x a week, even when I'm feeling time crunched. I have learned the hard way that getting away from my computer and doing something for my body (that I also love) actually makes me more productive. I'm not perfect, and there are weeks that I don't hit all the marks, but I always feel much better when I can prioritize taking care of myself.
As a psychologist and solopreneur helping leaders, teams and businesses of all sizes flourish, I must be intentional in my own personal health pursuit to model that entrepreneurship does not mean burning yourself out. My top tip is to stick to the basics. Exercise is my number one non-negotiable because it supports both my physical and mental health. I go to the gym at 530 am through the week and trail run on the weekend. This routine supports my stamina, immunity, mood, and connects me to a consistent community as much of my work is virtual. Another bonus for my weekly trail run is that my best business ideas and problem-solving happens during that time. Exercising also translates to better food choices, which also support mental health. Research has confirmed that brain and mood health are directly linked to, for example, consuming less sugar and eating less processed food. My takeaway: back to basics consistency!
Running a business can take a massive toll on your mental health - I learned that the hard way in my early days with Wigonia. My top tip is setting clear boundaries. I switch off my phone at 8 PM every night, and I have what I call 'Think Tank Thursdays' where I work alone in my conservatory with zero meetings. These aren't just nice-to-haves - they're essential for staying sane in business. Getting professional help was a game-changer. I found a therapist who specialises in working with entrepreneurs, and it's been the best investment I've made besides my initial inventory. There's no shame in asking for support when you're carrying the weight of a whole company, as you've got the livelihood of dozens of people resting largely on you. I also keep what I call a 'wins journal.' Every Friday, I write down three achievements from the week, even tiny ones. When you're in the thick of building something, it's easy to lose perspective on how far you've come. The bottom line is this: your business can only be as healthy as you are. I learned that lesson after burning out in 2019, and now protecting my mental health is as important as any business strategy.
Hi, I was excited to see HubSpot addressing the critical topic of entrepreneurial mental health. As a founder of a leadership and performance consulting company, I deeply understand entrepreneurs' unique stresses. My work focuses on helping leaders manage their well-being to perform at their best, and my insights have been featured in publications like Fast Company, U.S. News & World Report, and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). I'd love to contribute my perspective to this important topic if it would add value to your piece. Thanks in advance for considering, "As an entrepreneur, your mental health isn't just a personal priority; it's a business strategy. You can't lead effectively or make sound decisions if you're running on empty. I learned this the hard way during a long recovery from an accident, but it taught me an invaluable truth: your physical and mental health are deeply connected. When your body isn't cared for, your mind-and relatedly, your work-struggles to keep up. Start with the fundatmentals: prioritize sleep, move your body, eat well, and connect with others. Early morning sunlight and meditation help reset my focus while limiting sugar and processed foods keeps my energy stable. These habits improve physical well-being, sharpen mental clarity, and build resilience. And don't overlook human connection. It's easy to get trapped in a work-first mindset, but relationships keep us grounded and emotionally balanced. The best investment you can make as a founder is taking care of yourself."
When I work with entrepreneurs and executives, I often take an "awareness then action" approach. It's a practical way to uncover what's working, what isn't, and how to make meaningful changes. Start by reflecting on a few key areas of your life: -Sleep: Are you getting 7-8 hours of restful sleep each night? -Nutrition: Is your diet fueling you with balanced, sustained energy throughout the day? -Substance Use: Are you avoiding mood-altering substances that might cloud your mental clarity? -Physical Health: Are you addressing any health issues that could be affecting your mental well-being? -Exercise: Are you staying active at least three times a week? -Work-Life Balance: Do you set clear boundaries around work hours, or are you burning the midnight oil too often? -Delegation: Are you trying to do it all yourself, or are you delegating tasks to others when possible? Next, think about how you approach productivity. Are you breaking larger goals into smaller, manageable steps to reduce overwhelm? Are you setting realistic timelines to get things done? And let's not forget your mindset. Are you getting stuck replaying mistakes, or are you learning from them and moving forward? Can you accept your imperfections while still believing in your ability to grow and succeed? Support is essential, too. Surround yourself with people who understand the ups and downs of running a business-like-minded entrepreneurs or business owner groups can be incredibly validating. And if things still feel unmanageable, consider talking to a therapist. Sometimes, having a professional sounding board can make all the difference.
Private Practice Owner & Licensed Clinical Social Worker at Adored Mothers Perinatal Therapy Center, PLLC
Answered a year ago
Prioritizing mental health is imperative for everyone, especially business owners because often the lines of work and personal can be blurred. My top tips for dealing with mental health are boundaries, organization, and mindset. Having healthy boundaries of when you start and end your day will help from a business owner experiencing burnout. Stick to those boundaries and remain consistent. I can testify to how easy it can be to just answer this one phone call, or respond to one more email, but the more I blurred my boundaries, the more I felt resentment and burnout. Being organized can help business owners from feeling overwhelmed and anxious. Entrepreneurs wear so many hats every day, therefore, having a system of organization can help business owners stay on task, but also feel more in control and less frazzled. I have found writing down my to-do list and having organized systems in place drastically impacts my day on a regular basis. Especially when I'm not feeling my best, my organized systems and handwritten lists keep me on track. Lastly, mindset is huge. It's very common for business owners to experience imposter syndrome, have moments of self-doubt, and feel discouraged. I have found that engaging in consistent mindset work whether through leaning on my support system, listening to podcasts, or reading personal development books helps me have a grounded and inspired mindset. Mindset work goes a long way when dealing with mental health for entrepreneurs and business owners.
As an entrepreneur, there are constant stresses and things to worry about. Trying to tell yourself, "You are fine, stop stressing" usually makes it even worse! I have struggled with anxiety far before starting my own business, and dealing with my mental health looks a bit different each day, but here are a few of the practices that have helped me combat anxiety, and stay "somewhat" sane as an entrepreneur: 1. Communicate: Acknowledging to yourself that you are anxious, stressed, or mentally uneasy, is the first step I have found that helps. Once you have accepted that you are anxious, it helps to share your thoughts with someone you trust, such as a spouse or a close friend. Sometimes voicing your concerns makes them seem less catastrophic. 2. Don't Avoid Your Stressors: I have adopted the strategy of "Eating My Frogs" as soon as possible. Tackling your biggest or most stressful task early in the day or the week helps take more off your plate and eases the mind. 3. Nobody Cares as Much as You Do: This took me awhile to own, but it's usually true. You are likely worried about something someone else might think, and often times, the other party doesn't care nearly as much as you might think. I get most stressed about client calls where I think the client is unhappy about something, and then I dread that call for days. Then when I actually take the call, they are normally fine, or we can have a conversation and talk through it without issue. 4. Build Confidence: Do things throughout your week that instills confidence in yourself. Go to the gym, take a training course, call a client that always makes you feel good. Building your self-confidence is a great way to keep your mind right, and stay focused.
I've founded three small companies over the years and have been through my share of burnout and exhaustion. Along the way, I learned that my non-negotiable is to prioritize my physical health, as that is what keeps my emotional health in balance too. I just don't believe you can have good mental health in an unhealthy body. So for me that means healthy eating, but also getting out in nature every day, usually for a hike, but if not at least a short walk. That's my exercise time, my emotional therapy, plus it is productive! I challenge you to find a project that can't immensely benefit from some time out in nature. When you're moving your body in nature, your mind is distracted and you'll often find ideas and solutions just flow. And you'll return feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. Now science is catching up and research shows time in nature can have profound health benefits. Regardless, I can't think of a more healthy and healing way to invest your time to keep your mental (and physical) health in good shape!
Seeing my therapist weekly is hands-down one of the best decisions I've made-not just for my mental health, but for my business too. It's like giving myself a tune-up, keeping me grounded and sharp. Entrepreneurship is full of highs and lows, and therapy helps me process challenges without letting stress derail me. During a rough patch when a big deal fell through, my therapist helped me reframe the setback as an opportunity to pivot and refine my approach. Instead of spiraling, I left the session with a clear head and a stronger strategy. And, something that gets overlooked is therapy isn't just self-care-it's performance-enhancing. It's the space where I unpack tough decisions, get clarity on priorities, and work through the emotional toll of running a business. It makes me a better leader and also ensures I'm building from a place of strength and resilience. 10/10 would recommend!
Business Coach & Strategist at Soul Empowered with Lauren Diana
Answered a year ago
Being an entrepreneur is one of the most rewarding things you can do, but it's also one of the most mentally demanding. I know this firsthand because I burned out hard during my corporate career, working endless hours and tying my worth to productivity. When I left to start my own business, I brought those same workaholic habits with me-and I hit a wall again. That's when I realized I had to make radical changes. Here are some of the specific practices that made the difference. First, I stopped treating self-care as optional. Now, I have a daily morning routine that anchors me: a 10-minute mindfulness meditation, journaling three things I'm grateful for, and identifying a single priority for the day. This practice keeps me focused and grounded. I also started using what I call "energy audits." Every Friday, I look back at my week and assess which tasks energized me and which drained me. The draining ones go on a list for delegation or automation. For example, I realized client onboarding was wearing me down, so I invested time in creating a streamlined onboarding system with automated emails and guides. It was a short-term effort that freed up hours of mental space every week. Another game-changer has been scheduling "CEO Days." Once a month, I block off an entire day to step away from daily operations and think strategically about my business. I use this time to review goals, brainstorm ideas, and check in with myself. Am I still aligned? Am I working on things that actually move the needle? Support is non-negotiable for me now. I joined a mastermind group where I can share challenges and get insights from other entrepreneurs. I also see a therapist who specializes in working with business owners, which has helped me navigate the emotional ups and downs. Finally, I made peace with the idea that not everything has to be perfect. I used to agonize over every detail, but I've embraced the mantra "good really is good enough." This mindset shift has allowed me to focus on progress over perfection. These aren't just fluffy suggestions-they're tangible systems and practices that have transformed how I run my business and care for my mental health. They've allowed me to work smarter, not harder, and create a business that serves my life, not the other way around. If I've learned one thing, it's this: success doesn't mean sacrificing your well-being. It means building something sustainable-and that starts with taking care of yourself first.
Hello there! My name is Boris Dzhingarov. I am an SEO expert and the CEO of ESBO-a branding and marketing company that helps global businesses expand their reach online. I write for several sites, such as Semrush.com, Tech.co, Tweakyourbiz.com, and more. My quotes have been featured on reputable websites, such as Forbes.com and AmericanExpress.com. I appreciate the chance to share my insights with you. As someone who practices yoga, I can say that it really helps me stay grounded and focused instead of getting lost in stress or overthinking. Every morning, I make sure to take a few minutes to breathe or do a simple routine. It helps me clear my mind, so I can start the day on a good note rather than rushing into tasks. During the day, I've made it a habit to take short breaks, especially when I feel tension building up. I'll step away from my desk, do a guided breathing exercise, or just move my body a bit. These mindfulness practices have help me slow down my body and mind. When I take a break, instead of worrying about what work I need to do next, I focus on the moment and it allows me to relax. When you start your own business, you can't expect everything to go according to your plans. That's why one of the hardest lessons for me has been learning to let go of outcomes. Mindfulness has taught me to release the feelings that can come with unmet expectations and focus on what I can control-my effort, my decisions, and my mindset. And I believe that this is something that also helps me maintain good mental health. I hope this was helpful! If you have any more questions, don't hesitate to reach out. Best regards, Boris Dzhingarov ESBO Ltd. Website: https://www.esbo.ltd/ My LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/boris-dzhingarov-94157a54/ Headshot: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1KZwxN2DYX_WUKcUX85davgKNJpB9gw-Q/view Email: pr@esbo.ltd
Founder at Modeva
Answered a year ago
My first tip would be to protect your time like it's your most valuable asset - because it is. That means setting clear boundaries. For me, no meetings before 12 PM and no work past 6 PM unless it's absolutely critical. It's not about being lazy - it's about keeping your brain sharp so you can make good decisions when it matters. Second tip: fail fast, but don't fail alone. Talk to other founders, mentors, or friends who get it. Sharing the pressure takes it off your shoulders and keeps you from spiraling. Lastly, treat your body like an employee you care about. Sleep, eat well, and exercise - not for vanity, but because your brain works better when your body does. Being an entrepreneur is a marathon, not a sprint, so pace yourself. If you're burned out, your business will be too.
For me, balancing a full-time job, running an e-commerce business, and raising a baby is a lot, but I've found a few things that really help keep me grounded. Each morning, I start by making a list of three core tasks I want to complete for the day. It keeps me focused without feeling overwhelmed, and if I get through anything extra, that's a bonus. If I don't finish something, I just roll it over to the next day-it's a simple way to keep things manageable and avoid unnecessary stress. Getting out for a walk before work starts and again after it ends is non-negotiable for me. My dog (mastiff-staffy mix) makes sure of that! The walks clear my head, get my blood flowing, and help me separate different parts of the day. The evening walk, in particular, gives me a break from screens and resets my mind before diving into business tasks. In the evenings, I focus on my e-commerce business. Since it doesn't need constant attention, I let orders build up and pack them all in one go. Having this specific time carved out keeps it from creeping into the rest of my day. At the end of the night, I spend a few minutes on a spiked acupuncture mat to unwind and relax tense muscles. It's also a good time to reflect on the day or clear any last thoughts from my mind. I keep a notepad by my bed for brain-dumping worries or ideas, which helps me sleep better knowing I won't forget anything important. These habits-planning my core tasks, walking, and sticking to routines-help me keep everything in balance. It's not perfect, but they make a busy life feel much more manageable.
Mental health management is a cornerstone of sustainable success as an entrepreneur or a business owner. Based on my personal journey, here are some strategies that have proven invaluable: 1. Take Ownership of Your Mental Health Entrepreneurs must take proactive responsibility for their mental well-being rather than waiting for external solutions or miracles. This involves setting boundaries around work hours, scheduling regular breaks, and ensuring time for hobbies or relaxation. For example, during a particularly challenging phase in my business, I implemented a rule to avoid work-related activities after 7PM, allowing me to disconnect and recharge effectively. 2. Prioritise Physical Health Physical and mental health are deeply intertwined. Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, and sufficient sleep are non-negotiable for clarity and resilience. Simple practices, such as a 15-minute morning stretching session and a nightly 30-minute walk an hour before bedtime, have significantly boosted my energy and reduced stress. 3. Seek Support from Your Network Entrepreneurship can often feel isolating, but building a network of trusted peers, mentors, or coaches can make all the difference. Their insights and support often bring clarity to problems that may feel overwhelming. I recall a time when a mentor's advice on restructuring my workday instantly resolved weeks of indecision and stress. 4. Delegate Effectively Stress often stems from attempting to do everything ourselves. Learning to delegate tasks that others can handle allows you to focus on high-priority responsibilities while also empowering your team. For example, outsourcing routine administrative tasks gave me more time to focus on strategy, leading to a noticeable improvement in productivity. 5. Incorporate Mindfulness Practices Mindfulness techniques such as meditation, journaling, or gratitude exercises help maintain focus and perspective. Writing down my daily wins, no matter how small, has been an effective way to combat stress and maintain a positive mindset. 6. Don't Hesitate to Seek Professional Help Mental health deserves the same attention as physical health. Seeking therapy or counseling is not a sign of weakness but of strength. During a particularly stressful business expansion, engaging with a counselor provided me with strategies to handle pressure and maintain balance, ultimately improving both my personal and professional life.
As an entrepreneur or business owner, managing your mental health is paramount for both personal well-being and business success. Here are top tips for dealing with mental health in this demanding role: Practice self-care regularly. This includes exercising, meditating, or engaging in activities that help you relax and unwind. John Lattanzio, CEO of John Angelo Photography, emphasizes, "Self-care isn't a luxury for entrepreneurs; it's a necessity. It's the fuel that keeps our creative engines running." Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Establish specific working hours and stick to them. Learn to delegate tasks and embrace automation to reduce your workload. Lattanzio notes, "Boundaries aren't just about saying no to others; they're about saying yes to your well-being." Cultivate a support network. Seek support from friends, family, or other business owners who understand your challenges. Consider working with a mental health professional specializing in entrepreneurship. "Running a business can be isolating, but remember, you're not alone in this journey," Lattanzio advises. Implement mindfulness practices. Being present and fully engaged in the moment can help reduce stress and anxiety. Incorporate mindful breathing or take a few minutes to appreciate your surroundings throughout your day. Celebrate achievements, no matter how small. Many entrepreneurs are perfectionists, which can lead to self-criticism. Practice self-compassion and acknowledge your progress. Lattanzio shares, "Every small win is a stepping stone to bigger success. Celebrate these moments; they're the fuel for your entrepreneurial journey." Prioritize physical health. Regular exercise and a balanced diet play crucial roles in maintaining good mental health. Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise 3-5 days a week. Unplug regularly. Technology can blur the lines between work and personal time. Set aside periods to disconnect from work-related communications. Embrace frugality and minimalism. Financial stress can significantly impact mental health. Adopting a mindful approach to spending can create a more stable foundation for your business and alleviate financial anxiety. Use mental wellbeing tools. Experiment with different resources such as meditation apps, mental health advice emails, or wellbeing toolkits. Find what works best for you and incorporate it into your routine.
As a woman living with depression and anxiety, I've found that entrepreneurship has actually the best thing for me. It's allowed me to thrive in ways I never thought possible. However, the truth is some aspects of entrepreneurship are really tough on your mental health, whether you live with a mental health condition or not. Below are just a few of my top mental health tips that allow me to thrive as an entrepreneur 1. Lean on my tribe of fellow entrepreneurs who understand what I'm going through and act as a reality check. 2. Work when it works for me. 3. Set time limits for myself, so I am forced to take breaks and not get lost in work. 4. Participate in other activities and organizations, so I can take my mind off my work and feel connected to different causes other than work. 5. Take on projects I love and clients I enjoy because that makes it much easier to persevere when I am struggling. Of course, there are many days when I don't take any of my own advice, but I've learned to recognize those moments and either embrace them or course-correct them.
As an entrepreneur, your business often feels like an extension of yourself, which makes managing mental health uniquely challenging. One piece of advice I give myself and my clients, as a psychotherapist, is to practice "scheduled disconnection." Choose specific times in your day to disconnect from your phone, emails, and notifications, even for 15 minutes. This small habit prevents mental overload and gives your brain space to recharge. Another important tip is to reframe failure as part of the process. Entrepreneurs face constant risks, and adopting a mindset where setbacks are seen as learning opportunities can significantly reduce stress and self-doubt. I also recommend creating a mental health "budget" alongside your financial one. This could include therapy sessions, mindfulness apps, or even breaks for hobbies you enjoy. Investing in your mental well-being is as crucial as any business investment-you can't lead effectively if you're running on empty. These intentional steps not only support your health but also make you a stronger, more adaptable leader.