Follow up to the Start up Series 23 - Founder wellbeing

Importance of Founder Well-being:

Running a startup can be incredibly demanding and stressful. Founders often face long work hours, high-pressure situations, and constant decision-making. Neglecting well-being can lead to burnout, decreased productivity, and even negatively impact the success of the business.

Tips for Founder Well-being:

• Set Boundaries: Establish clear boundaries between work and personal life. Allocate time for relaxation, hobbies, and spending time with loved ones.
• Practice Self-Care: Prioritise activities that promote mental and physical well-being, such as exercise, meditation, hobbies, and spending time outdoors.
• Seek Support: Don't hesitate to reach out to mentors, peers, or mental health professionals when you're feeling overwhelmed. Sharing your challenges can lead to valuable insights and coping strategies.
• Delegate and Collaborate: As your startup grows, delegate tasks and collaborate with your team. This relieves some of the workload and prevents burnout.
• Celebrate Wins: Take time to acknowledge and celebrate your achievements, no matter how small. Positive reinforcement boosts morale and motivation.

Founder Well-being Resources:

• Mentemia: Mentemia is a New Zealand-based mental well-being app co-founded by Sir John Kirwan, a well-known advocate for mental health. The app offers practical tools and techniques to manage stress, build resilience, and enhance overall well-being.
  Resource Link: Mentemia
• BetterHelp: An online platform that connects users with licensed therapists. It provides convenient and confidential access to professional counselling.
  Website Link: BetterHelp
• Clearhead: Clearhead is a platform that offers mental health support and resources, including personalised recommendations for therapy and well-being services. It connects individuals with registered professionals and provides information on a range of mental health topics.
  Resource Link: Clearhead
• Headspace: An app that offers guided meditation and mindfulness exercises. It can be a great tool for reducing stress and promoting mental clarity.
  App Link: Headspace
• Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand: The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand offers resources, information, and support for mental well-being. They provide guidance for individuals, workplaces, and communities on promoting positive mental health and reducing stigma.
  Resource Link: Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand

These resources offer a range of tools, guidance, and support to help founders prioritise their well-being while navigating the challenges of entrepreneurship in the local context.

Remember, prioritising your well-being not only benefits you but also positively impacts your startup's success. Taking care of yourself allows you to lead with clarity, creativity, and resilience.