π© I Failed. How Ignoring My Own Advice Led to Burnout β Lessons Learned π§βπ«
Jan 07, 2025
π§ Listen to this blog post as a Podcast instead: #39 - I Failed. How Ignoring My Own Advice Led to Burnout — Lessons Learned
π In this episode of the "How To Be A Handmade Boss" podcast, I dive deep into a topic that many of us face but often shy away from discussing: burnout and mental health.
β Before we get started, I offer a trigger warning for those who may not be in a place to hear about these struggles. If you're feeling overwhelmed or prefer to skip this episode, I completely understand. However, if you're interested in learning from my experiences over the past few months, I invite you to stick around.
π§βοΈ I share my internal conflict about whether to record this episode, feeling the pressure to always present a polished, reassuring front as a coach. But the truth is, running a business is not always hunky-dory, and I want to embrace a more holistic approach that includes not just strategies for growth but also the importance of mental wellness.
Navigating the Handmade Business: From Passion to Profit
Welcome back to the How to Be a Handmade Boss blog! Today, we’re diving into a topic that resonates deeply with many of us in the handmade business community: burnout and mental health. If you're feeling overwhelmed or not quite ready to tackle these subjects, feel free to skip this blog. But if you're eager to learn from my experiences and insights, stick around!
The Reality of Running a Handmade Business
Running a handmade business can be incredibly rewarding but also challenging. As passionate creators, we often find ourselves in a cycle of constant hustle, striving for success while neglecting our mental well-being. Here are some key insights I've gathered from my journey over the past few months:
The Balancing Act: Strategy vs. Self-Care
While I excel at strategising and helping others grow their businesses, I’ve realised that success isn’t solely about hard work and effective strategies. It’s also about taking care of our mental and physical health. Here are some important reminders:
- You Are Not a Machine: Unlike machines, we are inherently creative beings, and our productivity is tied to our well-being.
- Recognise the Signs: Ignoring signs of burnout can lead to serious mental health challenges. It’s crucial to listen to your body and mind.
My Personal Experience with Burnout
I took a month off in August to spend time with my husband. While it was a much-needed break, I returned to a chaotic situation that left me feeling even more overwhelmed. Here’s what I learned:
- Time Off Isn’t a Cure-All: If you return to a disorganised environment, the break won’t help. It’s essential to address underlying issues before taking time away.
- Set Boundaries: As your business grows, it’s vital to set clear boundaries. If you’re always available, you’ll never truly disconnect.
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The Importance of Mental Health Support
I’ve come to understand the value of seeking support for mental health. Here are some key takeaways:
- Everyone Needs Support: Whether through therapy, friends, or support groups, having someone to lean on is crucial.
- Trust Your Intuition: Don’t let others dictate your choices. If something doesn’t feel right, listen to your instincts.
Key Lessons Learned
After reflecting on my experiences, I’ve identified several key lessons that can help others in the handmade business community:
- Working Harder Doesn’t Equal Success: Instead of doubling down on effort, focus on working smarter.
- Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to signs of stress and anxiety. Ignoring them can lead to burnout.
- Take Responsibility: Recognise that your choices shape your reality. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, assess what changes you can make.
Embrace Change and Let Go of What’s Not Working
A crucial lesson I’ve learned is the importance of reassessing what’s working in your business. If something isn’t serving you, consider letting it go. Here’s how to approach this:
- Burn It Down: Sometimes, the best choice is to eliminate what’s not working. It’s okay to quit if something doesn’t align with your goals.
- Pursue Feelings Over Things: Instead of chasing material goals, focus on how you want to feel. For example, if you desire freedom and joy, identify actions that align with those feelings rather than fixating on a specific car or success marker.
Avoiding the Box: Be True to Yourself
As your business grows, it’s easy to feel pressured to conform to others' expectations. Here’s how to maintain your authenticity:
- Don’t Force Yourself into a Box: Resist the urge to follow blueprints that don’t resonate with you. Trust your instincts and create a business model that feels right for you.
- Stay Grounded: Amid the chaos of running a business, remember to stay connected to yourself.
The Power of Breath
Lastly, I want to highlight the transformative power of breath. When stress and anxiety creep in, take a moment to focus on your breathing:
- Deep Belly Breaths: Simple deep belly breaths can help ground you. Inhale deeply through your nose and exhale slowly. This practice can ease anxiety and keep you grounded.
Moving Forward
As we approach the end of the year, I encourage you to take a moment to reflect on your journey. What changes can you implement to prioritise your mental health? Remember, it’s okay to not be okay, and seeking help is a sign of strength.
Join the Conversation
I invite you to share your thoughts and experiences with me. Have you faced similar challenges in your handmade business? How do you prioritise your mental health? Leave a comment in my FB group or send me a DM. Your feedback means the world to me!
By sharing my story, I hope to foster a conversation around mental health in the handmade business community. Together, we can support each other in our journeys from passion to profit. Stay tuned for more insights and strategies in upcoming episodes!
Love Steph xox
π₯³ Do you want to learn more? π₯³
We’ve got loads of resources to help you scale your handmade business:
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3οΈβ£ β¨Ready to grow your business? Here's your to-do list: π Grow here π
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