Starting your own business is like being the captain of a ship on an adventure in unfamiliar waters. The excitement is a thrill, but the waves can be chaotic and the weather unpredictable – and rewards come only if you work hard and watch out for threats constantly.

South African entrepreneurs are under extra stress as they struggle with an unstable economy and unreliable electricity and water service delivery. The trials and tribulations of running your own business can play havoc with your emotions, affect your mental health, and strain your relationships with family and friends. They could even leave you with serious conditions like anxiety and depression.

A sound mind enables better decision-making, creativity, and resilience – all critical challenges for entrepreneurs. In other words, your mental well-being is as important to your business as its day-to-day operations.

Prioritise mental health awareness

As captain of the ship, you need to navigate every change in the economic climate, every shift in GDP growth rate, every interest rate fluctuation, every cost increase in energy, raw materials and fuel, and every change in transport logistics. To handle these pressures and maintain a sharp, healthy mind at the same time, it’s essential to prioritise your mental well-being.

Looking after your mental health is just as essential as taking care of your physical health – perhaps even more so. After all, people can easily see when you’ve broken a limb or you’re sick in bed, and they take your physical condition into consideration. It may be harder for them to tell when you’re overwhelmed by mental stress, so it’s up to you to seek help when you need it.

Set boundaries, delegate, and schedule self-care

A good sailor knows when to drop anchor and rest – set clear boundaries between work and your personal life. Craft a schedule to fit in both business duties and personal downtime, so that you don't burn out. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement of building your dream 24/7, but you must take time for yourself while you’re on this voyage.

Even the best captains need a crew. When the pressure feels overwhelming, it helps if you can delegate tasks to trusted shipmates. You’ll find it easier to manage stress and maintain your mental well-being with a strong team – whether you recruit them from family, friends, or professional networks. 

Self-care isn't a luxury, it's a lifeline. Exercise, sport, hobbies, spa treatments or even therapy are all activities that can help you unwind, refocus and recharge. Don’t be too embarrassed to seek support. Remember, asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Lessons from others who have sailed similar seas can be incredibly motivating. South Africa boasts many inspiring entrepreneurs with long experience in balancing total commitment to their businesses and proper care for their mental health. Look for their stories in local media or attend networking events to learn from their experiences.

Keeping your mental health ship-shape

Here are some practices that can help maintain your mental well-being:

• Mindfulness and meditation
  Practice mindfulness techniques to stay grounded. Apps like Headspace or Calm can help you develop a routine that reduces anxiety and promotes mental clarity.
  
  
• Regular exercise
  Make physical activity part of your daily routine. Exercise releases endorphins, which can improve your mood and overall well-being.
  
  
• Therapy and counselling
  Don't hesitate to seek professional help. Therapists can provide strategies to cope with stress and help you maintain a healthy mental state.
  
  
• Healthy diet and sleep
  Maintain a balanced diet and ensure that you get enough sleep. Proper nutrition and rest are the foundations of mental and physical health.
  
  
• Support networks
  Build and maintain a support network. Engage with family, friends, or fellow business owners for emotional support and practical advice. Local organisations like the South African Depression and Anxiety Group also offer resources and support for mental health.
  
  
• Community engagement
  Never underestimate the power of community. Interact with fellow entrepreneurs through events, workshops, and online forums – they could provide not only valuable business insights, but also emotional support.

Starting a business is a rewarding but demanding journey. It’s easier to preserve your mental health with a trusted financial partner who offers the support and resources you need to succeed. Take care of your mental well-being by reducing your stress about money – speak to the Nedbank Small Business Services Team to learn how you can build a sustainable, profitable enterprise. You can also find an amazing suite of business solutions, plus opportunities in advertising, networking, sponsorship, and funding, in the SimplyBiz community.