Daytona therapist, Shelly Stum, advises entrepreneurs to laugh, play, breathe and get some perspective about the big picture to help maintain balance and wellness.
In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, it’s easy to get caught up in the relentless pursuit of success. However, to achieve and sustain that success, it’s crucial for entrepreneurs to prioritize their well-being.
As part of Mental Health Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on the often-overlooked challenges that can profoundly impact professionals’ well-being, productivity and success.
In the latest edition of our ongoing series exploring the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurialism, we explore with mental health therapist and valued member of our Daytona Beach coworking community, Shelly Stum, the importance of maintaining a balance between work and play, as well as practical strategies for managing stress and enhancing mental wellness in the entrepreneurial journey.
Shelly Stum’s Recommendations for Keeping a Healthy Business Mind
When you think of an entrepreneur, you might think of Steve Jobs, Bill Gates, or Oprah Winfrey. You know who they are and you might know a little about what helped them achieve their success, such as hard work and determination. Most entrepreneurs take what they do seriously and put their heart and soul into their business.
Balance Work and Play
One thing entrepreneurs need to be mindful about is keeping a balance of work and play. Entrepreneurs are often driven to succeed, and many will do whatever it takes to achieve their goals. It is not uncommon for entrepreneurs to sometimes focus so much on their work that they forget about themselves and their needs.
Take a Step Back, and Look at the Big Picture
Taking a step back and looking at the big picture can be helpful. Asking yourself these questions:
- Do I have balance?
- Am I making time in my schedule for my needs?
- Do I do something for my wellbeing and enjoyment every day?
- Do I feel how I want to feel?
If not, make some changes.
Laughter is the Best Medicine
Whoever said laughter is the best medicine was on to something. Laughing activates the neural pathways of emotions such as joy and mirth, improves mood, decreases pain, and reduces feelings of stress. Have a few minutes? Pull up a video of your favorite comedian on YouTube or TikTok, or watch some kittens or puppies frolic in a field, whatever works for you.
Try Diaphragmatic Breathing to Lower Stress
Feeling stressed? Choose to engage in some deep breathing. Breathing in a slow and controlled manner calms the nervous system, lowers blood pressure and heart rate, and reduces levels of stress hormones in the blood while increasing feelings of relaxation and peace.
I invite you to try diaphragmatic breathing. Get into a comfortable seated position. Place one hand on your chest and the other on your abdomen. Take a slow even deep breath into your nose feeling your stomach expand with clean fresh air. Slowly exhale all of the stress out of your mouth as if you are blowing out the candles on a birthday cake. This will naturally allow for the outbreath to be slower and more mindful. Do this for 3 minutes or more to feel the benefit.
Conclusion
Prioritizing self-care and finding balance is essential for sustained success and well-being in entrepreneurship. By taking time to laugh, relax, and engage in deep breathing exercises, entrepreneurs can cultivate resilience and enhance their overall quality of life.
About Shelly Stum, LCSW
Shelly Stum is a compassionate mental health professional who blends her natural intuitive gifts with extensive counseling expertise. With a background in sociology and social work, she offers heart-centered coaching and holistic counseling services, helping clients find healing and joy in their lives. Passionate about angel healing, Shelly aims to empower others to connect with their guardian angels for guidance and support. Overall, Shelly Stum is dedicated to providing support, encouragement, and love to individuals seeking healing, transformation, and illumination in their lives.
How to Get in touch with Shelly Stum
Shelly A. Stum, LCSW
Peaceful Healing Solutions LLC
[email protected]
ShellyStum.com
(386) 968-2032
