As an entrepreneur, managing pressure is an inevitable part of the journey. When I started my business 10 years ago, I had NO CLUE what was in store for me and just how rough it would feel at times trying to “keep up”. Scrolling the online world can lead to feeling behind, or wanting to be where so and so is with their business…the race to achieve the next big thing or hit that financial milestone is truthfully never ending…unless YOU stop it.

Whether you're brand spankin’ new, or a seasoned business owner, the demands of entrepreneurship can often lead to overwhelming stress and anxiety. Learning how to effectively deal with pressure and being comfortable with growing pains is crucial for maintaining productivity, making sound decisions, and preserving your well-being. In this blog post, we'll explore some valuable tips to help you navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and manage pressure like a pro.

8 Tips for Managing Pressure

1. Understand the Source of Pressure

The first step in dealing with pressure is to identify its sources. Obviously, right? Well, some of the most common pressure triggers include financial limitations, tight deadlines, fierce competition and comparison, and one of the biggies…the fear of failure. Take some time to reflect on your specific stressors and understand their impact on your mindset and decision-making. If you had no limitations or pressures, would you do anything differently with your business? What kind of decisions would you be making or what types of products or services would you provide? Recognizing these factors will enable you to develop a more proactive approach to address them, but it’s also important to recognize the source behind the decisions you make as well.

2. Embrace a Positive Mindset

Whether or not you can change your circumstances, you can always change your mindset. One of my favorite thought leaders and authors, Dr. Joe Dispenza said,  “I can tell you with great certainty that when you change your internal state of being, then the external circumstances of your life will reflect that change back to you.”

This quote highlights the powerful connection between our internal state of being and the external circumstances we experience in life. He emphasizes that changing our mindset can lead to profound transformations in our reality. One fascinating aspect of this phenomenon of mindfulness and mindset is the ability to change the chemical makeup in our brain, which plays a significant role in shaping our thoughts, emotions, and behaviors. Having a positive mindset can significantly impact how you handle pressure. Cultivate a growth mindset that views challenges as opportunities for learning and growth. Use positive affirmations, or set goals and use visualization techniques to boost your confidence and maintain focus during times when you just can’t kick the feeling of overwhelm and pressure. Embrace a problem-solving mindset to tackle issues head-on and turn obstacles into stepping stones.

3. Time Management and Prioritization

Effective time management is a key skill for entrepreneurs facing pressure. Break down your tasks into manageable chunks and set realistic goals. Prioritize your responsibilities, focusing on tasks that have the most significant impact on your business. Don't be afraid to delegate tasks to a capable team, as this can alleviate pressure and help keep you in your zone of genius which is where you create your best work most efficiently. When we’re stuck working in our business on tasks like bookkeeping, answering customer support emails, etc. etc., we’re not utilizing the power of our time and gifts. 

4. Build a Support Network

As an small business owner, it's essential to surround yourself with a strong support network. Seek out mentors, like-minded peers, or join entrepreneurial support groups where you can share experiences and gain valuable insights. Having people who understand your journey can provide valuable advice and encouragement during challenging times. In my early days as an entrepreneur I didn’t understand the importance and value of support. Spending thousands of dollars on coaching or mentorship just sounded like a waste of time and resources, but it’s been an absolute game changer for me as a leader, giving me direction in my business and beyond.

5. Practice Stress-Relief Techniques

Do not underestimate the power of movement! In the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship, stress-relief techniques are vital for maintaining your well-being. Regular exercise, whether it's a 20-minute walk or a pilates class, can help reduce stress and boost your mood. I also like to incorporate mindfulness practices, meditation, or deep breathing exercises into my daily routine to give me the stillness and clarity my mind needs to tackle the pressure of entrepreneurship head on. Remember, taking breaks and allowing time for rest is not a sign of weakness but a necessity for sustainable success.

6. Learn to Adapt and Be Resilient

In the entrepreneurial landscape, setbacks are a part of the deal. Learning to adapt to changing circumstances and being resilient in the face of challenges is crucial. Think about it! Even within the last 6 months, the world of social media and using apps to promote your business has drastically changed. Threads is new, AI and ChatGPT is taking over it seems and everything is constantly evolving. Embrace change and be flexible in your approach to problem-solving. And remember, if you suck at something right now, it doesn’t mean you always will. View failures as opportunities to learn and grow, using them as stepping stones on your path to success.

7. Avoid Overworking and Burnout

I know how easy it is to fall into the trap of overworking yourself as an entrepreneur. There’s constant deadlines, someone has to post and engage with the community on social media, and an email list and blog? How does one keep up? However, constant stress and burnout can lead to a decline in productivity and creativity. Set clear boundaries between work and personal life, and stick to them. It’s so important to have a long-term focus in mind for your business, rather than just tackling what’s right in front of your face. Take breaks and allow yourself time to recharge regularly. Recognize the signs of burnout and take proactive steps to prevent it from negatively impacting your journey.

8. Celebrate Small Wins

Amidst the hustle and bustle of running a business, it's easy to overlook small victories. Celebrating even the smallest wins can boost morale and motivation. If you just posted a story for the first time, or booked a client from your new email funnel, etc…create a culture of appreciation within yourself and your team if you have one, and acknowledge individual and collective achievements. Recognizing progress, no matter how minor, will keep you and your team focused and inspired.

Conclusion

Dealing with pressure as an entrepreneur is an ongoing process that requires self-awareness and proactive strategies. By understanding the sources of pressure, embracing a positive mindset, practicing effective time management, building a support network, and taking care of your well-being, you can navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship with greater confidence and resilience. Remember, success is not just about achieving business goals but also about maintaining a healthy and fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.