In a world where entrepreneurship is becoming increasingly popular, it is important to understand how to manage stress and ensure you are on track to success.

As a Mindset Coach, twin mum to toddlers and entrepreneur myself, I understand the pressures!

Here are five steps on how to manage stress as an entrepreneur:

1. Prime the mind

Mindfulness and meditation are powerful tools to help reduce stress, and even more powerful as a primer for the mind and nervous system. Taking a few minutes a day to focus on your breath, and ground yourself can help you reduce anxiety, increase focus and prevent burnout. Develop a routine that works for you, whether it is a quick check in with yourself in the morning and you take a few minutes to close your eyes, deep breath and ground yourself before starting on your tasks, or a midday walk or evening mindfulness in the shower – one of my personal favourites! Imagine the water is rinsing off any anxiety or stress from the day, focusing on how the water feels. 

2. Establish effective time management strategies

Being an entrepreneur often requires wearing a variety of hats, ranging from marketing, networking, client engagements, to managing employees. This can quickly become overwhelming, leading to stress and burnout. Establishing effective time management strategies can help reduce stress and allow you to accomplish more. Schedule your day, set realistic goals, prioritise, and delegate tasks where possible.

3. Take breaks and practice self-care

As an entrepreneur, it is easy to get caught up in our work, especially when there is always something to be done. However, taking breaks to care for ourselves is critical. Schedule time each day to do something that makes you happy, whether it be listening to your favourite feel good music, reading, speaking to friends, or exercise. This can help refresh your mind, increase your energy, and boost your creativity. I work with a lot of entrepreneurs who have ADHD or who are neurodiverse, I often recommend the Pomodoro Technique, which as an example is you set a timer or alarm and work on one thing for 25 minutes, then take a 5-minute break, then go again. Try this for 3 x 25 minutes with 5-minute breaks in between, then take a longer break for 30 minutes. This helps with getting into flow and gives your mind healthy breaks in between.

4. Build a support system

As an entrepreneur, it can be lonely at times. Building a support system of fellow entrepreneurs can help manage stress, provide motivation, and give you an opportunity to collaborate and learn from others. Attend industry events, join social media groups, and seek out mentorship from those who have been successful in your field. There will no doubt be other like-minded entrepreneurs out there looking for a buddy or support system too!

5. Practice gratitude

Finally, practicing gratitude can help reduce stress and provide a positive mindset. Even on the most difficult days, take a few moments to reflect on what you are thankful for, whether it be your health, your family, or your business. This can shift your mindset from one of stress, to one of abundance and opportunity.

Managing stress as an entrepreneur many not always be easy, but it is necessary for your success and longevity in what you do. By priming the mind, establishing effective time-management strategies, taking breaks, and practicing self-care, building a support system, and practicing gratitude, we can better manage stress and reduce overwhelm, and enjoy the journey.