It’s widely believed that entrepreneurship and mental stress go hand in hand, and building a successful company can result in various symptoms of stress, such as depression and anxiety. However, these effects are not always inevitable, and being an entrepreneur does not automatically result in these conditions.
Stress and The Body
The body releases stress hormones to help it perform at its best when dealing with situations that require it to respond efficiently. Some of these include adrenaline and cortisol, known to trigger a fight-or-flight response. The other stress hormones also affect various brain functions, such as memory and learning. Under stress, individuals often feel overwhelmed and have difficulty controlling their emotions.
When the body gets too stressed for a prolonged time, it releases a second stress hormone, glucocorticoids. This substance can affect the immune system and cause ulcers and chronic fatigue. The effects of stress on one’s mental and physical health depend on various factors, such as genetics, lifestyle, and personality. Successful entrepreneurs can recognize this threat and take the necessary steps to address it.
1. Tone Down Perfectionism
Being exceptional may seem like an admirable goal, but it can be counterproductive. There are ways to tone down perfectionism so you can remain in a state of Zen. One of these is to practice being in the present. This will help you keep your stress levels at a low level.
2. Keep Your Body Moving
Getting active is known to help decrease tension and anxiety. It can also stimulate the release of endorphins, natural painkillers that can improve physical and mental health. Although it’s not necessary to go to the gym, regular exercise can be done at any time of the day. For instance, if you’re having difficulty finishing a task, take a deep breath and stretch your legs before starting.
3. Get Help or Delegate
If you’re an entrepreneur, you should only take on tasks vital to your business. Having the necessary skills to delegate tasks is also essential to ensure that you can focus on the bigger picture. Hiring people handling smaller jobs can help you unburden yourself and foster creativity.
4. Pace Yourself
As passionate about our companies’ success, we cannot possibly do it all day, every day. Try to maintain a steady pace and limit your activities to avoid exhaustion. Disconnecting from your device and enjoying yourself with family and friends is also essential.
5. Write It Down
An effective way to relieve stress is to write down problems. This can help you identify what’s happening in your life and better understand what is affecting it. Having a journal can also help you connect with yourself and stop the negative thoughts that are constantly coming up.