Two weeks after I graduated college I launched my business Bené full time. I have always loved the work that I have done and being able to create something that really changes the lives of others. Along the ‘Journey’ of building my business I got so caught up in the hustle and the pressures I placed on myself to succeed and make more money that I lost sight of my ‘why’ and I lost sight of my identity a part from my business. The stress, anxiety and doubt that began to mount up, hit me hard.
As millennials striving in our careers and businesses, I think we have all dealt with the unrealistic pressures we have placed on ourselves to be at a certain place in life by the age of 30. I knew I wasn’t the only one dealing with the pressures, anxiety, isolation and depression that going for your dreams so often creates. When I got the opportunity to talk to Dr. Joy of Therapy for Black Girls about my ‘Journey’ with battling mental health as an entrepreneur, I had to share all that we discussed. In our conversation, we talk about:
- If you are not well, mentally, physically, emotionally, there is no way you can pour into and create a healthy business.
- The importance of creating mindful practices throughout your day, be present in all things that you do.
- We all have negative thoughts that tell us we can’t but prove yourself wrong and write down your successes and accomplishments.
- Sleep, eating and exercise are keys to living a mentally well live.
- The purpose of a therapist is not give you the answers to your questions but to help guide you as you do the work and dig deep.
Truthfully, this conversation was really difficult for me. I share with you and with the world some of the biggest challenges I have faced not just as an entrepreneur but in life. This conversation was very real and emotional for me and I know I am not alone in these experiences. If you can relate or have thoughts about this conversation, I would love for you to comment and share below. And as always know that you are not alone in the ‘Journey’.
-Blue