Entrepreneurship and top leadership roles are often glamorised as the ultimate path to success. However, the reality is far from the idealistic images. Ms Dheep Vora, founder of Hachi Foods, who runs the brand ‘Hachi with Love’ describes how entrepreneurship is a combination of constant pressure and relentless demands. She also says that the high stakes of running a business or leading a team can often be overwhelming.
As an entrepreneur or a top leader, you’re juggling multiple responsibilities, making critical decisions under pressure, and often, doing so in isolation. Mental health isn’t just an afterthought; it’s a crucial part of maintaining your effectiveness and well-being in these roles. Let’s dive into Dheep’s point of view of what challenges are likely to occur in this journey..
The Real Challenges
- It’s Isolating & Lonely
When you’re at the top, it can feel like you’re on your own. The isolation of leading a business or a team can be stifling. Without a support network, you’re left to navigate challenges alone, which can add stress and mental fatigue after a point.
- Decision-Making Fatigue is Real
Every day, you make decisions that could make or break your business. This constant pressure to make the right call can be paralyzing. The weight of these decisions can lead to intense anxiety and mental strain.
- Fear of Failure
The fear of failure can be a constant shadow. It’s not just about the potential for business collapse—it’s about the personal stakes and the fear of letting down your team, investors, or yourself.
- Work-Life Imbalance
Your work can easily consume your life, leaving little room for personal time or self-care. This imbalance can lead to burnout, where the line between professional demands and personal needs blurs, impacting your overall health.
Strategies for Maintaining Your Well-Being & building your Mental Muscle
- Build a Support Network
Stop isolating yourself. Reach out to fellow entrepreneurs, mentors, and peers. Engage with them through networking events, seminars, or online communities. These connections can provide essential support and perspective when you’re feeling overwhelmed.
- Prioritize Self-Care
Self-care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity. Make time for activities that rejuvenate you—whether it’s exercise, hobbies, or downtime. This isn’t about escaping work; it’s about maintaining your mental resilience so you can handle challenges more effectively.
- Set Clear Boundaries
Set clear boundaries between work and personal life. Establish defined work hours, but be flexible enough to avoid going overboard. When the workday ends, make it a point to step away from your tasks. Protecting your personal time is essential for maintaining your mental health and overall effectiveness. Aim to keep one day per week completely free from work to recharge your batteries
- Empower Your Team
Give your team more freedom and trust them to take ownership of their work. It may be hard at first, but establishing boundaries for acceptable mistakes will relieve some of your burdens. You don’t have to be involved in everything yourself. Empowering your team fosters a sense of responsibility and can lead to innovative solutions, while also freeing up your time to focus on higher-level strategies.
- Engage with Mentors and Peers
Don’t shy away from seeking advice and support. Connect with mentors who have been through similar challenges. Use cold emails, attend networking events, or join professional groups. These interactions can offer invaluable insights and reduce feelings of isolation.
- Invest in Professional Development
Commit to ongoing learning, both for yourself and your team. Attend workshops, enroll in courses, or participate in industry conferences. Investing in professional development enhances your skills and keeps you connected to the broader entrepreneurial community, providing fresh perspectives and ideas.
- Practice Mindfulness
Incorporate mindfulness practices into your daily routine. Techniques like meditation or deep breathing can help manage stress and keep you grounded. This can be for as low as 10 mins a day. They’re not just trendy; they’re practical tools for maintaining mental clarity and resilience.
Dheep says, “Your mental health is not just an afterthought; it’s a fundamental component of your success as an entrepreneur or top leader. By acknowledging these challenges and actively taking steps to manage your well-being, you can maintain your effectiveness and navigate the high-pressure world of business with greater ease. Don’t wait until you’re overwhelmed—start prioritizing your mental well being for more clarity today.”
