Founders swap boardrooms for park paths in support of mental wellbeing
More than 170 small business founders gathered at Hyde Park Corner to take part in a founders' ‘walk and talk’ event during Mental Health Awareness Week in May earlier this year. Organised by the not-for-profit, Virgin StartUp in collaboration with mental health service Self Space, the event encouraged business owners to take a break from their busy lives and tap into start-up support and connect with their peers.
This came after new research from Virgin StartUp revealed more than half (51%) of start-up founders reported experiencing more instances of burnout this year, with lack of time (31%) and costs (18%) the key barriers to prioritising their mental health.
The findings came amid a year of uncertainty caused by global political turmoil and economic instability, alongside the ever-present toll starting and running your own business can take on founders’ wellbeing.
Reflecting on the event, Andy Fishburn said on LinkedIn: “Over 100 founders joined us for our first Founder Walk Club, in partnership with the brilliant team at Self Space, as part of Mental Health Awareness Week.
“What struck me most wasn’t just the scale of the turnout, but the depth of the conversations.
“In a world that often pushes founders to lead with their successes, polish their pitches, and celebrate their wins, this gathering was a powerful reminder that sometimes the most impactful conversations are the unpolished ones – the ones where you skip the small talk and share what’s really going on.
“Yes, we talked about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the pressure of leadership, and the fear of letting people down. But we also talked about life – about family, relationships, loss, love, and everything in between. The real stuff.
“I think it was a timely reminder for everyone that we’re not just founders, but human beings, and there's a lot going on in the world right now. But surrounding yourself with the right community can make the journey a little easier, a little lighter, and a lot more meaningful.
“Thank you to everyone who joined us – for showing up, for being real, and for choosing connection. That’s what community is all about."
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