PRIORITIZING MENTAL HEALTH IN FEMALE BUSINESS OWNERS

Hello, fellow female business owners!

As we end the month of May, it’s a perfect time to spotlight a critical but often overlooked aspect of our entrepreneurial journey – mental health. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and I want to share some thoughts and insights on how mental health affects us as female entrepreneurs and business owners.

The Silent Struggle of Female Entrepreneurs

Female entrepreneurship is an exhilarating journey filled with highs and lows. We chase our dreams with passion and determination, but this path often comes with significant mental health challenges. Did you know that female entrepreneurs are more likely to experience mental health issues than the general population? Research indicates that female business owners are twice as likely to suffer from depression and anxiety. The relentless drive to succeed, financial pressures, and the isolation that can accompany running a business all contribute to these struggles.

As a female website and brand designer, I’ve faced my share of mental health challenges. The quest for perfection, meeting client expectations, and managing multiple projects simultaneously can be overwhelming. There have been moments when the stress has felt almost unbearable. During these times, I’ve realized the importance of prioritizing my mental health, not just for my well-being, but for the success and sustainability of my business as well.

Finding Balance: Strategies That Work for Female Business Owners

Here are a few strategies that have helped me maintain my mental health while running my business:

1. Set Boundaries: It’s crucial to draw a clear line between work and personal life. Designate specific work hours and stick to them. This practice helps prevent burnout and ensures you have time to recharge.

2. Practice Self-Care: Engage in activities that help you relax and rejuvenate, whether it’s taking a walk, meditating, or spending time with loved ones. Self-care should be a non-negotiable part of your routine.

3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek help. Whether it’s talking to a therapist, joining a support group, or confiding in a friend, having someone to talk to can make a significant difference.

4. Delegate: Remember, you don’t have to do everything yourself. Delegating tasks and seeking help when needed can alleviate stress and free up your time for what truly matters.

5. Stay Connected: Female entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey. Make an effort to stay connected with fellow female business owners who understand your challenges. Networking and community support can provide encouragement and inspiration.

Building a Healthy Business as a Female Entrepreneur

Prioritizing mental health isn’t just about feeling better; it’s about building a sustainable and successful business. When we are mentally healthy, we’re more creative, productive, and resilient. We can navigate challenges with greater ease and lead our teams with clarity and compassion.

Let’s commit to making mental health a priority. Share your stories, seek support, and remember that it’s okay to take a step back when needed. We’re in this together, and by supporting each other, we can create a thriving community of healthy, happy female entrepreneurs.

Thank you for being a part of this journey with me. Let’s make Mental Health Awareness Month a time of growth, self-care, and connection.

I'm being proactive about standing by my word of prioritizing mental health by attending a sauna, ice bath, breath-work networking event hosted at Othership tonight! 

I can't wait to share the experience with you all next week, in case you are also based in New York (or looking to visit) and seeking a similar experience.

Creatively,

Kristina Horan

Creative CEO of KHWD

P.S. If you have any tips or experiences about balancing mental health and female entrepreneurship, I’d love to hear from you! Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments below.