The stigma surrounding mental health issues in business is shifting. We’re coming to realize it’s a topic that affects so many of us. More big names are admitting they sometimes struggle regardless of the success they enjoy. But, when you own a business, are there ways in which we can protect or improve our mental health? Here are a few things you can consider to have a successful business and take care of your mental health.
Talking
According to the National Institute for Mental Health, “nearly one in five U.S. adults live with a mental illness.” Knowing so many people suffer from a mental health condition helps to open the door for some much-needed conversation. It’s also possible for us to help or be helped by speaking to the right people about our own mental health condition. By talking about mental health, you can help reduce the stigma that surrounds it. Other people will be encouraged to get the help they need, knowing they don’t have to walk through their journey alone.
Consider offering workshops for your company that educates team members about mental health. This should include the different types and resources that are available to them. Don’t just focus on someone who may have a mental health condition but also the friends and family members who know someone who needs help.
Self-care
Of course when we want our businesses to succeed we only think about the fact we’re going to be ‘in it’ 100%. We went to give it our all every day, so much so we if we are not careful, we can burn ourselves out. One of the biggest things you can do is to be mindful every day, meditate and practice things like yoga. Exercise also helps to keep your stress levels down. If this is something different for you, then you must try and keep an open mind and start!
At the end of a long day, these options will help you feel more in control of the situation. Even just making sure everything is organized for the next day can take a massive weight off your mind.
Delegate
There’s always going to be the odd task that maybe feels much worse than it is. But if you delegate the tasks that it won’t hurt to hand over to someone else, you’ll find you are more productive and much calmer. You can do this by turning assignments over to members of your team or outsourcing tasks that don’t need to stay inhouse. There are so many options from hiring a local digital marketing company, accountant, or even hiring someone to manage your social media accounts. This makes excellent business sense as well as helping to keep your mind clear and focused.
Therapy
Too many people do not seek the professional help they need. There is a definite stigma amongst minority communities when it comes to mental health. Seeking help was often seen as a sign of weakness, that is until it’s too late. Running a business can be your dream but also know it can also be a lonely journey. Many people will not understand your dream and what you are trying to create. It can also be very overwhelming, high pressure and demands a lot of your time. That pressure can cause many feelings to surface, especially those from your past you have never dealt with. If you’re not coping well, do not suffer alone and in silence.
There are so many therapy options now, and you’re only causing yourself more stress by not using those resources when needed. You’d go to a doctor if your body weren’t functioning properly, so make sure you go to a doctor if you have a poorly mind. Don’t be afraid to get help with your mental health!
As a business owner or career professional, experiencing a mental health condition, you don’t have to give up on your dreams. By using the tools available, along with making some simple lifestyle changes, you’ll be in a prime position to have a thriving business and excellent mental health as well! If you find yourself or someone you know needing professional help, do not be ashamed to get it. There are many services and support systems you can access to help you process everything you’re going through.
If you are in the United States, The National Institute for Mental Health provides a list of resources available to you. Veterans of the United States military can contact the Veteran’s Crises Hotline. If you’re in the United Kingdom or Ireland UK and Ireland helplines are available through the Centre for Mental Health. Always remember, you do not have to suffer in silence. Here’s to YOUR success!
Carolyn R. Owens has over 25 years of proven experience and serves as a Career Strategist, Leadership and Life Coach. She is the Chairwoman and CEO of Infinity Coaching, Inc. where they help you up-level your skills so you can up-level your income. Infinity Coaching, Inc. provides one-on-one and group coaching, organizational training, and personality assessments. Carolyn is certified to give both The Energy Leadership Index Assessment and Myers Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) Assessment. You can find out more about both assessments and other products and services at https://infinitycoaching.net.
