06.08.20
Making Time for Mental Wellbeing, 3 Ways to Preserve Your Sanity
Leslee Hill, Director, WEOC at The NIIC
Photo by Pexabay
Benjamin Franklin said it best when he quipped, “If you fail to plan, you are planning to fail.” While it may be true that we can always make time for things that are important to us, with the constant go-go-go of life it is easy to put ourselves last.
The work-life balance never stays still for long, it requires constant adjustments and lots of juggling—especially for entrepreneurs and business builders. Running a business is a high-stress endeavor that can be very isolating with demanding hours and the wearing of many hats. Work is never really “done” because there’s always something to do, and it’s not easy to unplug as it is quite common to work from home.
At the very end of the day, what little “free” time is left might be allocated for domestic duties or family time. Unless you specifically carve out time for yourself to relax, recharge, and recenter, there’s a good chance you will reach a breaking point. This looks different for everyone, but entrepreneurs are 50% more likely to struggle with a mental health condition.
Mental well being is so important. I encourage you to to be mindful about it. Decide how you will make your wellbeing a priority, and work it into your schedule. This is not a selfish act. It is crucial for the overall health and success of both you and your business. Taking care of yourself leads to lower stress levels which in turn sparks improved clarity, creativity, and productivity.
Here are a three ways to preserve your sanity.
- No man is an island: Reach out.
We’re all in this together has never been more true for dealing with the pressures of life. No matter what you’re dealing with, there is someone out there who has already been through it, or can offer some kind of help or advice. For business support, consider joining a networking group or finding a mentor; for emotional, social, and psychological well-being, LookUp Indiana has a wealth of resources.
2. Headspace: Find your mental zen.
From apps and online therapists to deep breathing and meditation, there are a myriad of high and low tech ways to help you find some peace. Even if it’s just five minutes a day, make space for yourself to be alone, free from all distractions, with no internet, calls, or email.
3. Get outside: Go green.
Bike to work, take a walk at lunchtime, or find a park on your way home. Connecting to nature is instantly calming and being surrounded by greenery has been found to inspire a host of positive benefits. Even having a few potted plants in your work space can help lower blood pressure, and make you generally feel better.
Remember to be kind to yourself, just like plants, we’re growing every day and need a variety of things to ensure we’re healthy, from sunlight to support systems.
Are you looking for a group of like-minded individuals? The NIIC and WEOC have all kinds of opportunities for you to nurture and develop as an entrepreneur—reach out today!
