Submitted by Dr I.A. Harriott, B.S.,Rph, MPA, MSP, MBA, MS, PharmD, Cph, RMHCI
It is so tough to run a small business. I know because I have felt your pain. Running a small business often entails long hours, high stress, and a multitude of responsibilities. As entrepreneurs strive to grow their ventures, it is easy to neglect personal well-being. Yet, clinical mental health professionals emphasize that a stable mind is integral not only to personal fulfillment but also to sustained business success. Prioritizing mental health for you and your staff can enhance decision-making, increase resilience, and ultimately improve the bottom line.
You must stay tuned into your business and your staff to understand the unique challenges that they may face. Entrepreneurs frequently experience anxiety, burnout, and isolation. The constant pressure to secure clients, manage finances, and lead a team can erode mental wellness. While some stress is normal, chronic emotional strain can hinder creativity, impair judgment, and negatively impact relationships—both at work and at home.
There are a few practical strategies that I may suggest that may assist you and your staff to help with dealing with the day-to-day stress within small businesses,
1)Mindfulness and Stress Reduction: Techniques such as deep breathing exercises, meditation, and regular physical activity help calm the nervous system and improve focus.
2)Therapeutic Support: Engaging with a licensed mental health professional—such as a clinical mental health counselor—provides a safe space to navigate emotional complexities and develop healthier coping strategies. Engaging a counselor gives everyone a safe space to explore stress and strategies for solutions.
3)Healthy Boundaries: Setting clear work hours, learning to delegate, and incorporating short breaks can prevent burnout. Boundaries are so important and so underutilized. This is also an area that a counselor can explore with you and your staff.
Resources for Further Support
Websites:
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) – Research-based information on mental health conditions and treatments.
American Psychological Association (APA) – Comprehensive mental health resources and articles relevant to stress management, leadership, and workplace wellness.
Mindful.org – Articles and guides on mindfulness practices to reduce stress and improve focus.
Books:
"Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown – Provides insights into vulnerability, courage, and authenticity—key factors that influence mental health and team dynamics.
In the end, by embracing mental health as a foundational component of entrepreneurship, as business owners you can not only achieve professional milestones but also cultivate sustainable well-being. In doing so, you, and we all position ourselves—and our businesses for long-term success.
