In this bustling world of entrepreneurship where success stories are celebrated and overnight achievements are glorified, there exists a silent struggle that often goes unnoticed. Behind the polished facade of social media posts and carefully crafted marketing strategies, many business owners who are sole traders, coaches, and service providers are grappling with their mental health in silence.
The pressure to conform to outdated and unrealistic tactics for building and growing a business can be overwhelming. From the constant hustle culture to the relentless pursuit of perfection, these entrepreneurs find themselves caught in a cycle of self-doubt, comparison, and fear of failure.
the narrative of success in the business worls is often defined by flashy metrics and superficial markers of achievement.
But, behind closed doors ( and screens ) , many entrepreneurs are battling feelings of inadequacy, imposter syndrome and burnout.
The very strategies taught to aspiring business owners can contribute to this mental health crisis. As a coach who has worked with 100s of women not only in the capacity as tech support and business development, but as someone who can help facilitate change with creating open and honest spaces to share how they are really feeling, it all but breaks my heart to come to know of the deep suffering they have been experiencing and feeling that they cannot speak about it more because they feel it could make them appear ‘weak’ like they can’t possibly be good at what they want to help other with, when in my experience, it is usually those who have encountered pain personally that go on to turn it into purpose, to help others.
The emphasis on relentless productivity , the pressure to constantly hustle, and the glorification of ‘hustle porn’ perpetuates a toxic cycle that prioritises output over wellbeing. As someone who agrees that we need both, it’s not that one over the other, there has got to be a balance. It’s time for a paradigm shift in the way we approach entrepreneurship. As leader in this industry, I think we have a responsibility to advocate for better practices, even in the absence of regulation. ( yes, the coaching industry isn’t regulated here in the UK ) We must challenge the status quo and prioritise the well-being of entrepreneurs over unrealistic ideals of success.
So how do we do this? where do we even begin?
I think it can start with our marketing effots. While it’s important to attract our ideal clients and polarize our content, we must do so with integrity and empthy. The language we use, the promises we make, and the values we uphold all have a profound impact on the mental health of our audience and how we treat people behind the scenes, you know, the emails that are written and sent that noone else see’s the DM’s. We have got to take a step back and maybe ask the questions, ‘How would I receive this message?’ , ‘What might be going on for this person right now and how could my words impact them?’
We need to create spaces where vulnerability is celebrated, where it’s okay to ask for help, and where success is defined not be external metrics, but my inner fulfilment and well-being. This is one of the things I love to be able to do when I am coaching my clients.
I understand that there’s often a divergence of opinions when it comes to the necessary sacrifices and tough decisions required to build a successful business. Some argue that resilience and thick skin are essential traits for navigating any challenges that arise. (and there will undoubtably be hurdles along the way. )They advocate for bold action, making fast decison, and putting in the hard work necessary to achieve success. I speak this from personal experience too, but again at what cost? To what extent does this move us so far away from who we truly are, and out of alignment with our values, who we are and how we do things?
It isn’t that I necessarily think they are wrong. Building a business often requires determination, resilience, and the willingness to make difficult choices. There are times when long hours and sacrifices are unavoidable, especially in the early stages of launching any new venture. However, I think its important to recognise that success in business shouldn’t come at the expense of our mental health or emotional well-being. It’s about finding a balance, integrating all aspects of our lives, and respecting ourselves and others as human beings.
When we engage in partnerships or collaborations, whether with clients, suppliers or other businesses, lets remember its a two-way street. Both parties need to show up in their scope of practice, respecting each others boundaries, needs and limitations. Yes, there will be times when tough love is required, but it’s crucial to approach it in a way that acknowledges and respects the other variables in people’s lives. A holistic viewpoint. As when we come to meet others, they could be raising families, managing full-time jobs, or dealing with major life crises, these factors just can’t be ignored, or given unhelpful advice, such as it’s a mindset problem, or that you just haven’t rewired your brain.
Ultimately, I believe it’s about fostering a culture of empathy, understanding and mutual respect. By integrating resilience with compassion, hard work with self-care, we can create businesses that not only thrive financially, but also contribute to the wellbeing and fulfilment of all involved.
I would love to know what your thoughts are?
Love & Gratitude,
Clare xx