Are you addicted to your business?

You dream of having a smoothly running business, a high-performing team, and the freedom to step back without the constant need for you to be in the business.?

After all, it’s why you went into business in the first place.

But what about when you achieve this ideal scenario??

Have you stopped to consider the often-overlooked downside?

When your business no longer hinges on your every move, you may find yourself grappling with a surprising challenge: the lack of significance and validation that comes from being the go-to problem solver.

Because you’ve built your business from the ground up, it's really hard to let go.?

The need to swoop in and save the day, to validate your importance through solving daily issues, can become addictive.?

Even when your team is performing well, it’s tempting to fall into the thought pattern of "I would’ve done it this way," despite the fact your team is achieving the same results.?

This urge can make it difficult for you to step back and fully trust your team.

But the idea of having nothing to do can be simply daunting.?

Your fantasy of endless beach days can quickly turn into boredom.?

Because you’re wired for growth, always seeking the next challenge.?

This drive is part of your DNA as a successful business owner, but it can also be a double-edged sword, leading to what some experts call “entrepreneurial addiction”.

Amy Morin, a psychotherapist and mental health author, describes addiction as compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli despite adverse consequences.?

This definition is particularly relevant for business owners who find themselves compulsively working longer hours, neglecting personal relationships, and sacrificing health and well-being for the sake of their business.

Amy identifies 6 warning signs of entrepreneurial addiction:

1. Obsessive thoughts (constantly thinking about your business - getting new clients, introducing new products, the next onboarding round...)
2. Withdrawal (once that big pitch or project is done withdrawal symptoms can occur, boredom, depression, anxiety, a feeling of ‘coming down’)
3. Self-Worth problems (never acknowledging how far you’ve come or celebrating your successes before searching for the next big thing will impact your self-worth, it’s never enough)
4. Increased Tolerance to your substance of choice, in this case unhealthy ways of working (the long hours, no lunch breaks or lack of sleep become the normal way to function)
5. Neglect (other areas of life come second and are neglected – your health, family, time for you, hobbies, sleep)
6. Negative Outcomes (continuing your way of working despite the negative effects on your health, relationships, and life)

Do you see any of these warning signs in you?

If yes, then you need to break the cycle.

You can start this by setting clear boundaries - allocate specific times for work and personal activities, and stick to them.?

Celebrate your achievements and acknowledge your progress to maintain a healthy sense of self-worth.?

Most importantly, remember why you started your business in the first place.?

Reconnect with your initial goals and ensure they’re being met without compromising your well-being.

Taking these steps can help you regain control and create a sustainable work-life balance.?

If you find yourself struggling, consider booking a clarity call with me to discuss strategies to get yourself out of this mess.?

It's time to move from being indispensable to leading a thriving, self-sufficient business so that you can enjoy the freedom and fulfilment you deserve.

Ness is a Business and Leadership Coach. Her approach is grounded in practicality and empathy because she believes in the power of careful, thoughtful decision-making that respects your needs. Having run successful coaching businesses since 2015, Ness is obsessed with helping business owners and leaders thrive. She helps her clients install smart business growth strategies and leverage leadership for peak performance.