Don’t let anxiety run your life as an entrepreneur

Anxiety can pop up when you least expect it.

As an entrepreneur, this can impact your life and business in surprising ways. Even if you don’t suffer from anxiety, generally speaking, business owners worry a lot!?

We worry about the future, our cash flow, our revenue, whether we have enough clients... the worry can be relentless.?

For those who live with anxiety on top of that, it’s a lot to deal with. But there are ways you can manage so that anxiety doesn’t run your life.?

Through coaching my clients and speaking with other business owners, I’ve observed common areas where anxiety tends to creep in:?

Social Anxiety

I’ve noticed a significant uptick in social anxiety, especially since COVID-19. Working from home has its perks, but it also makes venturing out feel daunting. It starts with a desire to stay in your comfort zone and can evolve into a full-blown reluctance to attend social events, network, or go to conferences.?

To combat this, it’s all about taking small steps. Maybe it’s visiting a co-working space or a library—breaking the routine of your home office. I’ve joked with my husband about being “allergic” to my office because sometimes I need a change of scenery. And for those of you with social anxiety, it’s important to gradually expose yourself to social situations, starting with smaller gatherings or meeting with a trusted business friend.

Financial Anxiety

Another common anxiety trigger is financial uncertainty. We worry about cash flow, revenue, and profitability. Seeing businesses around us close can be heartbreaking and stress-inducing. I’ve learned to disengage from doom-scrolling and negative news cycles. Instead, I focus on strategies that help maintain a positive mindset.?

It’s crucial to balance our immediate need for revenue with long-term sustainability. Consider what makes you happy and commercially viable for the future. Listen to uplifting stories, podcasts, and music. Remember, 80% of business success is mindset.

Generalised Anxiety

Generalised anxiety can be crippling, especially when compounded with the pressures of running a business. I had a client who woke up every day anxious about her business. Through our sessions, she realised her business didn’t bring her joy anymore. So, she threw that business out and started again with a blank sheet of paper, only doing the things that she really wanted to do.?

Did her anxiety disappear? No. But, it did reduce significantly and we put a plan in place to help her manage day to day.

If you’re struggling with anxiety, here are some things you can do:

• Remember the basics: Sleep, diet and exercise. These significantly impact cognitive functions and decision-making.?
• Call a friend: Sometimes, you just need to talk it out. As they say, a problem shared is a problem halved.?
• Have a support network: Make sure you have support systems in place—psychologists, social workers, counsellors, or even physical therapists like chiropractors or osteopaths. Whatever you need to help you feel supported.
• Self compassion: Sometimes, the best response to anxiety is taking it easy. If your body says "not today," it’s okay to rest.?
• Write a list on a good day: When you’re having a good day, write a list of coping strategies that will help you when anxiety hits. This list could include having coffee with a friend, going for a walk, grounding exercises, or meditation. Have the list handy and refer back when it feels all too much.
• Worry Time App: There’s actually an app that allows you to schedule a time to address your worries without letting them dominate your day. My clients LOVE this app.

Anxiety is a real and rising issue, particularly among small business owners. Compassion for yourself and others is crucial. Share your list of coping strategies with a trusted person who can remind you of them when needed.?

If you feel like you need some support to help you manage anxiety, there are some amazing professionals out there. Don’t hesitate to reach out for recommendations.

What are five or six strategies that help you when you’re not feeling great? Write them down, laminate it and keep it close. This simple step can be surprisingly effective.

WATCH FULL VIDEO

LINKS

Day with the Queen

Website

For a copy of Emma's book, 'Go-getter: Raise your mojo, shift your mindset and thrive' – https://www.emmamcqueen.com.au/book/

YouTube Channel