The Hardships of Being a Small Business Owner

Entrepreneurship is often idealized, but the reality is that it comes with a unique set of challenges and difficulties. Small business owners face distinctive stressors that can have a significant impact on their mental health. These pressures include the constant drive to succeed, financial unpredictability, long working hours, and the loneliness of being your own boss.

The Stress-Success Conflict:

Stress, when managed and resilient, can be motivating and increase the likelihood of success. However, excessive stress, resulting from non-resilient responses, can hinder success and lead to a range of cognitive and physical problems. While small business owners cannot prevent negative stress from occurring, they can prepare themselves for it and seek help when needed.

Radical Honesty and Willingness to Adapt:

Entrepreneurs need to have a clear understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and be ready to adapt and grow as their business evolves. They must also acknowledge the importance of seeking support when necessary and trust that it is available.

The True Side of Entrepreneurship:

Schentell Nunn, a floral designer and owner of the floral design studio Offerings, shared her perspective on the realities of entrepreneurship in the digital age. She explains that social media often romanticizes being an entrepreneur and a small business owner, emphasizing success stories without highlighting the struggles and challenges many face.

The Trade-Off of Being the Boss:

Jenny Walters, LMFT, and owner of Highland Park Holistic Therapy, noted that before starting her group practice, her time was more efficient and her routine less complex. However, she finds the added complexity of running a small business to be a constant source of engagement.

Self-Care for the Boss:

Small business owners need to prioritize their emotional well-being just as they do their business. This includes finding a licensed mental health professional, setting firm boundaries, and making time for play and relaxation.

Seeking the Support You Need:

There are numerous resources and avenues available for small business owners seeking support:

• Therapy: Finding a therapist specializing in working with entrepreneurs can provide valuable support and guidance.
• Boundaries: Establishing clear boundaries between work and personal life can help reduce stress and burnout.
• Play: Engaging in enjoyable activities can help unwind and recharge.
• Community: Building connections with other small business owners can foster a sense of support and understanding.

How We Can Support Small Business Owners:

Supporting small business owners can take various forms:

• Vote with Your Dollars: One tangible way to support businesses you want to see succeed is to spend money with them.
• Empathy: Being compassionate and understanding of the challenges small business owners face can go a long way.
• Patience: It's important to be patient with small business owners as they often have a lot on their plates.
• Curiosity: Asking small business owners about their experiences and challenges can help you better understand their journeys.
• Honesty: Being open and honest with small business owners about your expectations and needs allows them to serve you better.

Entrepreneurship is a challenging yet fulfilling path. By understanding the stressors small business owners face and offering our support, we can help them succeed.