FOUNDERS ABANDONED, START-UPS CELEBRATED

Welcome back dear reader, it has indeed been a long break since I last wrote. In my defence, I was working on starting an exciting new journey. To know which direction I am headed, read on.    

Today’s piece is about how in times of start-ups we cheer for the next Unicorn, but lack an active support system for the neglected entrepreneur. A lot like betting on a race horse but ignoring the jockey.  

72% entrepreneurs are ‘reportedly’ affected by mental health issues vs. 48% non-entrepreneurs. This, according to one of the most comprehensive researches on the matter.

(Source:michaelafreemanmd.com)

Imagine these numbers in an under-reported and under-diagnosed country like ours. Add to that the entrepreneurship-funding-IPO fever and fervour. The silver lining is that all the recent chatter around mental health found attention and mention in the finance minister’s budget speech.

Stress is conveniently blamed for most mental and physical problems of business owners. However people remain largely silent on the lack of support system for entrepreneurs. Presence of which could possibly reduce their stress to begin with.

Instead, the ‘always on’, ‘no down time’ behaviour is glorified while the price paid is ignored. This toxic culture is further perpetuated by other entrepreneurs who are always worried about losing out on the next sale, customer, or round of funding.

As someone who works with entrepreneurs and businesses, I have put down some tried and tested tools for business owners and entrepreneurs to de-stress. 

First, you need to look after your physical health. Yes, many of you may proudly declare that you don’t have the time to sleep or eat, let alone exercise. However, you are no good to anyone if unwell. You need to try and get adequate sleep so you are well rested, recharged, and alert the next day. You also need to eat healthy to keep your body’s natural immunity and strength topped up. Lastly, you need to fit exercise into your schedule. The endorphin release will make you feel good, relaxed and also give you some ‘me’ time. These breaks are known to be conducive to quieten the mind, allowing head space for fresh thinking.  

Second, seek out other business owners. Not necessarily competitors, but other entrepreneurs with who you can discuss some of your issues. They may have gone through a similar journey and have some valuable insights and learnings for you. Alternatively, you might be able to help them out. On the entrepreneurship journey, it is reassuring to know you are not alone. People have always needed to stick together to survive and thrive, and entrepreneurs are no different. 

Third, find a coach or mentor who can guide you along the road. Family and friends can love and cheer you on, but cannot always understand or be available. There will be times when you may feel stuck, overwhelmed or frustrated. Having someone who understands what you might be going through emotionally or operationally can really help put things in perspective and find ways to overcome temporary bottlenecks.  

Fourth, pause and breathe… you can follow the 6-4-10 breathing method. Just breathe in through your nose to the stomach to the count of 6, hold for the count of 4, and empty your lungs and stomach through your mouth to the count of 10 or more. Repeat at least 3 times. Variations of this technique are used to overcome anxiety, nervousness, stress and even panic attacks.

(Source: telepsine)

Also, experts recommend ‘forest bathing’ to (re)connect with Mother Nature. Make sure to at least turn your phone on silent so your mind can disconnect, slow down and take a breather from the business treadmill.

To briefly recap, as an entrepreneur there is no escaping stress. One can only take small measures to actively manage it. You need to sleep, eat, and exercise to look after your physical health. Reach out and connect with other entrepreneurs or a coach to help you navigate and keep things in perspective. Finally, you can try breathing exercises and switching off for small breaks to recharge.

These methods are just a guide in times where we lack supportive, non-judgemental spaces for business owners. Someplace that tells them it is alright to arrive on their own time or not even at all! That it is alright to not be alright, and to succeed as per your own standards. In the race to be the next Unicorn, it is important for the jockey to not fall off the horse.

This article was first published on LinkedIn, on the authors personal blog.