Mental Health Awareness Week 2023

Your best output will come when you’re in the best state of mind.

⁠This week, it’s mental health awareness week and the theme this year is anxiety. I’m also celebrating one whole year in business with Snowden Marketing.

As someone who suffers from anxiety and OCD, there have been times in my life when I didn’t think it would be possible for me to take such a risk, to count on myself completely and to fully embrace the uncertainty of being self-employed.

Although I’ve spoken openly to friends and on other platforms, even in 2023 it feels scary opening up about the fact that I’ve struggled with my mental health. It worries me that there could be professional repercussions because there’s still a lot of stigma around the subject.

Just look at how often the phrase, ‘using the mental health card’ gets casually thrown around. And don’t even get me started on the phrase, ‘so OCD’ – it doesn’t even make sense.

The stigma and misunderstanding are why these conversations need to keep happening. Because if you only saw me in a professional capacity, you probably wouldn’t think I suffered with anxiety or OCD.

But then, what does mental illness look like?

What it’s like running a business with OCD and Anxiety

As a busy female founder (aren’t we all), this year I’ve felt like I’ve had a never-ending list of things to be done, no time to do them and struggled to know when it was time to rest.

The result, my mental health took a dip. I’m lucky that over the years I’ve learnt to recognise triggers and have tools in place to support me when I need them.

I quickly learnt that mindset is so important when it comes to running your own business. There is still so much more I want for Snowden Marketing, and it will take time to get there. My passion and belief are what keep me moving towards those goals even when it feels impossible. It can be so easy to self-doubt creep in and let it take the wind from your sails.

It’s why I always batch and repurpose as much content as I can when I’m feeling invincible. Because how can you show up online, and promote your best and most authentic self when you’re just not feeling it?

Here are my best tips for looking after your mental health while running your business:

Rest is best

Nothing is more important than your health so take time to rest when you can.

It’s a marathon, not a sprint

Stop comparing yourself to others and feeling bad about those who are further on in their journey than you.

We’re all doing a marathon. Everyone is on their own journey, and you don’t see what goes on behind the scenes.

Take it as a positive that it can be done.

Gratitude

Take note every day of the little things. When there’s so much to do and such a big picture, take the time to celebrate the baby steps and the small wins because they’re just as worthy and mean you’re making it closer to your goals.

And focus on all the areas of your life. Self-worth isn’t defined by what your business does, your job title or your income. We are so much more than that.

Let go of what you thought it would be like

Just because it doesn’t like what you thought it would, doesn’t mean that you’re not successful or doing a good job. Let go of the fantasy and celebrate the reality.

Surround yourself with amazing people

I have an insane group of inspiring women in my life, who’ve cheered me on for years and continue to do so. When my mindset starts to wobble, they’re there to pick me up.

Just because you can do everything doesn’t mean you should

As a busy female founder (I see you), you’re wearing all the hats. You’re working in your business and on your business.

But if you can, outsource some of your tasks to an expert, like your marketing. While I create a lot of my content, it takes me hours compared to what a professional designer can do. Getting that time back is invaluable. It keeps me balanced and in a good mindset.

Second, collaboration brings so much energy to your business because it can be lonely being a solo entrepreneur. It’s why I’m so grateful to have found two amazing mentors to work with and help me move my business forwards.

If you’re thinking about starting your business journey and you have anxiety or other mental health concerns, just know it’s possible to do both.

If you need any help and support, talk to a friend, your GP or click here.