The Cost of Being ON All THE TIME as an Entrepreneur

My entrepreneurship journey has been hard, from building products that have no direct use in the market to creating ones whose vision could not be actualised because of the team's capacity—I have done it all. But one thing that has stood out during the years is the belief that "I SHOULD ALWAYS BE ON". This is a mindset many African entrepreneurs share, and for the most part, it is what seemingly drives "success", or at least that's what we believe.

In 2020, the repercussions of being always ON came knocking—I woke up one morning with sadness and fatigue. I could not do anything, and the harder I tried, the sadder I became. It took the intervention of a psychiatrist friend of mine to enable me to rediscover myself.

Why am I sharing this? Because we don't talk about it enough.

Since then, being "ON ALL THE TIME" has consistently cost me friendships, moments with family, and more. While I am on my journey of balancing myself out, I wanted to share practical daily steps and reaffirmations that I have decided to adopt that may guide you in your entrepreneurial journey.

The Myth of Perpetual Productivity

Let's address the elephant in the room—the belief that constant work equates to success. This notion is not only false but potentially dangerous. In Africa, where societal expectations and limited resources often amplify the pressure to succeed, the drive to be "always on" can be particularly intense.

However, research consistently shows that productivity and creativity flourish with balanced work patterns. The human brain isn't wired for constant engagement. Just as a machine needs downtime for maintenance, our minds require periods of rest and rejuvenation to perform at their best.

Practical Steps for Better Mental Health

1. Establish Clear Boundaries

Start by setting non-negotiable "off" times. This could be evenings after 8 PM, or full weekends. During these periods, I will resist the urge to check emails or engage in work-related activities.

Let's practice:

• Create a schedule that includes dedicated work hours and clearly defined personal time.
• Communicate these boundaries to my team, clients, and partners.
• Use technology to my advantage—set up auto-responders and use app blockers during my off hours.

2. Prioritise Physical Health

Physical well-being directly impacts my mental state and, by extension, your business performance.

Daily habits to consider:

• Schedule short workout sessions, even if it's just a 15-minute walk.
• Prioritise sleep—aim for 7-8 hours per night.
• Mindful eating—choose nutritious meals over quick, unhealthy options.

3. Practice Mindfulness and Meditation

In the hustle of entrepreneurship, taking time for mindfulness might seem counterintuitive. However, it's a powerful tool for maintaining focus and reducing stress.

Try this:

• 5 minutes of meditation daily, gradually increasing the duration.
• Use apps like Headspace or Calm for guided sessions.
• Practice mindful breathing during stressful moments throughout the day.

4. Cultivate Relationships Outside of Work

As entrepreneurs, we often neglect personal relationships in pursuit of business goals. However, strong personal connections are crucial for emotional well-being and can provide valuable perspective.

Make it a habit to:

• Schedule regular catch-ups with friends and family.
• Join groups or clubs unrelated to business.
• Engage in activities that allow me to meet new people outside my professional circle.

5. Embrace the Power of Delegation

Many entrepreneurs feel the need to oversee every aspect of their business. Learning to delegate effectively not only reduces your stress but also empowers your team; this I have come to appreciate over the years.

Practical steps:

• Identify tasks that don't require your direct involvement.
• Invest time in training team members to handle these responsibilities.
• Leverage the full use of project management tools to track delegated tasks without micromanaging.

6. Regular Digital Detox

In our hyper-connected world, constant digital engagement can be overwhelming. Regular breaks from technology can significantly improve mental health.

Try implementing:

• A "no phone" rule during meals.
• Technology-free evenings once or twice a week.
• A full-day digital detox at least once a month.

7. Seek Professional Support

In many African cultures, seeking mental health support is still stigmatised. However, professional help can be invaluable in maintaining your well-being and, by extension, the health of your business.

Consider:

• Regular check-ins with a therapist or counsellor.
• Joining entrepreneur support groups or mastermind sessions.
• Engaging with mental health apps designed for busy professionals.

8. Practice Gratitude and Reflection

Taking time to appreciate the journey and reflect on your experiences can provide much-needed perspective and reduce stress.

Daily practice:

• Keep a gratitude journal, noting three things you're thankful for each day.
• Set aside time weekly to reflect on your achievements and learnings.
• Share your gratitude with team members, partners, and loved ones.

Reaffirmations for the African Entrepreneur

1. "My worth is not determined by my constant availability."

2. "Rest is a crucial part of my success strategy."

3. "By taking care of myself, I am taking care of business."

4. "It's okay to say no to opportunities that compromise my well-being."

5. "My journey is unique, and I define my measures of success."

Remember, being an entrepreneur in Africa comes with its unique set of challenges and pressures. The drive to succeed can be all-consuming, but it's crucial to recognise that sustainable success requires a holistic approach to well-being.

By implementing these practices and embracing these reaffirmations, you're not just safeguarding your mental health—you're setting the foundation for long-term success and fulfilment in your entrepreneurial journey.

Let's change the narrative. Success doesn't have to come at the cost of our well-being. By taking care of ourselves, we position ourselves to build more resilient, innovative, and impactful businesses. After all, a healthy entrepreneur is the cornerstone of a healthy enterprise.