The holidays are speeding toward us faster than a last-minute Amazon delivery, and running a business right now feels like being the turkey in the oven. The pressure is high, the heat is on, and everyone’s waiting for you to deliver. While we’re all out here hustling to hit year-end goals, one thing often gets left on the back burner: our mental health. Spoiler alert—that’s not sustainable.
If you’ve been following my Standing On Business series, you know we keep it real about the ups, downs, and occasional meltdowns of entrepreneurship. Today, we’re diving into the one thing you absolutely can’t afford to ignore—your sanity. Let’s talk about five self-care strategies that will help you stay balanced, keep thriving, and maybe avoid turning into a stress-flavored casserole this season.
1. Set Boundaries to Reduce Stress While Running Your Business
The phrase "just one more email" is the entrepreneur's version of “just one more episode.” It’s a slippery slope that ends with you working at midnight and wondering why your to-do list only gets longer.
Here’s the fix: set clear boundaries for your workday. Decide on a start time and, more importantly, a stop time. Turn off notifications, close your laptop, and let yourself mentally clock out. Boundaries aren’t about doing less—they’re about working smarter and avoiding burnout. Remember, the emails will still be there tomorrow, but your energy might not if you overdo it today.
2. Practice Mindfulness for a Mental Reset
Mindfulness isn’t just for yoga enthusiasts or mountain retreats—it’s a powerful tool for anyone trying to manage stress. And no, you don’t need an hour-long meditation session or a collection of crystal water bottles to make it work.
Try this: take a 5-minute breathing break or step outside for a solo walk. These quick mindfulness practices are like a power nap for your brain, helping you clear out the mental clutter. They’re also proven to reduce stress and increase focus, which is a win-win when your plate is already full.
3. Stay Connected: Entrepreneurship Isn’t a Solo Sport
Running a business can feel isolating, especially if you’re a solopreneur. The long hours and constant grind make it easy to lose touch with the people who matter most.
But here’s the truth: connection is crucial for your mental health. Make time to call a friend, check in with family, or chat with other entrepreneurs who understand the highs and lows of running a business. Sharing your wins—and your struggles—reminds you that you’re not in this alone. Plus, a little encouragement from your tribe can go a long way when things get tough.
4. Prioritize Physical Health to Boost Your Mental Clarity
Your body and brain are on the same team, so treat them both well. Skipping meals, sitting all day, and pulling all-nighters might seem productive in the short term, but they’re recipes for burnout in the long run.
Focus on the basics:
Eat balanced meals that fuel your energy.
Move your body daily, whether that’s a workout, a dance break, or just a quick stretch.
Sleep—and I cannot stress this enough. Sleep isn’t optional. It’s the magic ingredient that keeps your mind sharp and your emotions in check.
When your body is thriving, the mental load of running a business feels a lot more manageable.
5. Seek Professional Help if You’re Feeling Overwhelmed
Let’s normalize this: seeking professional support isn’t a weakness—it’s a strength. Therapists and counselors are like personal trainers for your mind, helping you tackle stress, work through challenges, and stay focused on what matters most.
Running a business is no joke, and sometimes you need a little extra help to keep your head in the game. Whether it’s a licensed therapist, a support group, or a trusted mentor, having someone in your corner can make all the difference.
Bonus Tip: Schedule Time for What You Love
This holiday season, carve out time for the things that bring you joy. Whether it’s binge-watching your favorite show, baking cookies, or spending time with loved ones, these moments of happiness are just as important as hitting your revenue goals. Taking breaks to recharge isn’t slacking—it’s an investment in your well-being and your business.
Final Thoughts: Mental Health Is Key to Entrepreneurial Success
As the year winds down, it’s tempting to push yourself to the limit to meet those big goals. But here’s the thing: your mental health is your most valuable asset. Without it, none of the hustle matters.
So, set those boundaries, practice mindfulness, and don’t hesitate to seek help when you need it. Take care of yourself, because when you’re at your best, your business will be too.
If you found these tips helpful, stay tuned for the rebranded Standing On Business series, launching soon! It’s getting a fresh new vibe, but you can still expect the same real talk about entrepreneurship, self-care, and everything in between. Until next time, keep it balanced, keep it moving, and remember—you’ve got this.
*******
About The Author
Joyhdae Albert was born and raised on the island of Antiqua and is passionate about mental health advocacy and the power of shared stories. Having discovered tools to navigate life's challenges through her own therapy, she is committed to breaking the stigma surrounding mental health by sharing her personal stories.
Joyhdae is a content creator connecting with a vibrant online community through authenticity and empowerment. You can find her on TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram under the handle @joyhdae, where she blends humor, life lessons, and uplifting messages.
Comments