T he reality is we don’t see the sacrifices entrepreneurs make to create success. We don’t see the stress that entrepreneurs face that leads to mental health problems like depression and anxiety. The Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) reports that two thirds (62 per cent) of Canadian entrepreneurs feel depressed at least once a week. In fact, nearly half (46 per cent) say that mental health issues interfere with their ability to work. Why would this be? According to Yvon Gasse, Professor and Director of the Entrepreneurship Centre at Laval University, key characteristics that make great entrepreneurs are creativity, empathy, adaptiveness, independence, risk- taking, multi-tasking, and crisis- management skills. But these very characteristics—the need for variety, ability to take financial risks—can also have impacts our mental well-being and on those around us. Now, add COVID-19 to the mix of entrepreneurship, which at the best of times can be uncertain, and this brings about all new heights to the levels of stress. So how do we recognize stress in ourselves, especially during these times of COVID? Stress can affect us in many ways. Obvious signs of stress are depression or anxiety; anger; irritability or restlessness; feeling overwhelmed, unmotivated, or unfocused; trouble sleeping or sleeping too much; racing thoughts or constant worry; problems with your memory or concentration; and making bad decisions.
entrepreneurs can learn how to gain mental resiliency, increase personal productivity and overcome limitations. We have witnessed that COVID-19 has brought a whole new level of transitions, losses and an unknown future to entrepreneurs. People have been in crisis mode, and now the realities and impacts seem to be setting in. Therapists can create a safe space to help people navigate through turbulent waters. Entrepreneurs would be wise to take care of themselves wholly, both physically and mentally, and accept that the very traits that make life seem unusually difficult at times are likely the same ones that allow them to stand out so brilliantly.
of yourself by eating healthy, well- balanced meals; exercising on a regular basis; and getting plenty of sleep.
Give yourself a break if you feel stressed out. If news events are causing you stress, take a break
from listening or watching the news. While drugs and alcohol may seem to help relieve stress, they can create additional problems and increase the stress you are already feeling. So avoid them as a choice to manage your stress. An experienced entrepreneur said to me recently, “part of business success is having a good accountant and a good therapist.” Talking to others makes you feel better. Share your problems and how you are feeling and coping with a parent, friend, counselor, doctor, or someone you trust. Recognize when you need more help. If problems continue and you become sick and tired of feeling sick and tired, talk to a professional counselor for therapy. How often do you see a therapist as part of a business plan? Many entrepreneurs don’t factor therapy into their budget. They may believe in business coaching - to create a firm vision for the future short and long- term goals of their business - but often therapy is overlooked. An experienced entrepreneur said to me recently, “part of business success is having a good accountant and a good therapist.” With self-awareness, psychological support and emotional intelligence,
Jill Stewart, founder of Your Life Design Inc. is a registered social worker in Prince Edward Island (PEI). She holds Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) and Master of Social Work (MSW) degrees, in addition to certificates in Management and Adult Education. Jill has held a faculty position at Holland College (Human Services) since 2007. Her specialty is working with busy professionals in her private online therapy practice. She grew up on a potato farm in Elmsdale, PEI and now lives in Argyle Shore with her husband Dr. Adam Fenech and her dog Maggie.
And how do we deal with stress during times of COVID? You need to take care
www.yourlifedesign.ca 902.316.0745
SUMMER 2020 www.pei-living.ca SUMMER/FALL 2020 www.pei-living.ca
39
Made with FlippingBook - Online magazine maker