When I was a little girl, I was fascinated by people. I would go around asking anyone who would listen a list of questions I had carefully written out in my notebook. Questions like, “What’s your favorite color?” or “Pick a shape—triangle, square, or circle?” I was convinced that by gathering these answers, I could figure out who people really were and what made them tick. I didn’t know anything about psychology back then—just an elementary student with a curious mind and a passion for understanding others.
As I grew older, that curiosity didn’t fade. It wasn’t surprising when I chose Psychology as my major in college, driven by the same desire to understand people on a deeper level. But as much as I loved the theory and the conversations, Biology ended up being a huge hurdle I couldn’t overcome. More importantly, I realized that my true passion lay elsewhere—in storytelling, in capturing moments, in filmmaking. Media production had always been my first love, even if it took me a while to recognize it.
After shifting my focus, I graduated with a degree that aligned with my creative spirit. But like so many others, I quickly discovered that having a degree didn’t guarantee a job. The search was tough, and I found myself taking on various roles, trying to find my place. My first real job ended up being in teaching—something I never planned on but I’ve now found myself returning to time and time again. There’s something about education that keeps pulling me back, no matter how far I venture.
Yet, during the years I step away from the classroom, I dive into my own businesses. It’s something about channeling my energy into creating something that’s entirely mine. Something brand new, from scratch. These periods are a mixture of excitement, uncertainty, and relentless hard work—mirroring the journey of so many entrepreneurs. It’s during these times that I’ve learned the most about myself, my strengths, and the importance of maintaining balance.
This balance, as I’ve come to understand, is at the heart of holistic wellness. It’s not just about managing a business; it’s about managing yourself. As entrepreneurs, we often get so caught up in the hustle that we forget to take care of the very person driving the vision forward — ourselves.
And so, the journey continues, both in education and in entrepreneurship, but always with a focus on staying well, whole, and true to who I am. This is the magic that keeps everything together, and it’s the lesson I hope to share with others on this path.
The Reality of Burnout and Fatigue
In my entrepreneurial journey, I’ve encountered many highs and lows. One of the toughest challenges has been navigating burnout and fatigue. I remember a time when I was juggling multiple projects—my business was growing, opportunities were knocking, and I was determined to say yes to everything. I told myself that this was the grind, the hustle that all successful entrepreneurs talked about. But I was running on fumes, neglecting sleep, skipping meals, and ignoring the signs my body was desperately trying to show me.
Eventually, it all came crashing down. I hit a wall—physically, mentally, and emotionally. I couldn’t focus, my creativity was gone, and I felt completely drained. That’s when I realized that I had been pouring from an empty cup. My drive to succeed had led me to sacrifice my well-being, and it wasn’t sustainable.
But I’m not alone in this experience. I’ve spoken with other entrepreneurs who have faced similar challenges. One colleague, a passionate startup founder, has shared about her struggle with chronic stress. She was constantly on the move, managing her team, meeting with investors, and growing their services. She knew that some sort of change was necessary to keep it all up, and be successful.
The Turning Point: Embracing Holistic Wellness
After hitting that wall, I knew I had to make a change. Holistic wellness became my lifeline—not just as a concept, but as a way of life. I realized that taking care of my well-being wasn’t something to be squeezed in when I had time; it had to be woven into the fabric of my daily life.
Mindfulness became a cornerstone of this new approach, but not just in the quiet, meditative moments. I started practicing mindfulness in every part of my day, from washing the dishes to straightening up a bookshelf. It was about being present, finding peace in the mundane, and allowing myself to slow down in a world that constantly pushes us to go faster.
Physical wellness also took on a new significance for me. Lifting heavy weights became a must—something that I now start my weekdays with, like a ritual. There’s something incredibly empowering about feeling your strength grow, both physically and emotionally. It grounds me, energizes me, and sets the tone for the rest of my day.
Meditation and yoga, though challenging to incorporate consistently, became important too. I noticed a significant difference when I ended my day with a short meditation in bed. It helped me unwind, let go of the day’s stress, and sleep better. While it’s still hard for me to stick to, I’ve learned to be patient with myself, knowing that every bit of practice counts.
Nutrition also became a key focus, and I’ve admittedly become a bit of a supplement junkie. My morning and evening supplement routines are non-negotiable now, a way of ensuring that I’m giving my body the support it needs. Journaling has also played a significant role in my wellness journey. “The Artist’s Way” was particularly helpful in getting me started, and I continue to journal regularly as a way to clear my mind and stay connected to my inner voice.
I also turned to podcasts, YouTube videos, and audiobooks—particularly those focused on self-help and business. They’ve become a daily habit, something I listen to while driving, exercising, or even cooking. They serve as both inspiration and education, helping me to grow not just as an entrepreneur, but as a person.
But most importantly, no doubt about it, I make sure to carve out quality time with my two boys. They are my why—the reason I push forward, even on the hardest days. Spending time with them isn’t just a joy; it’s an essential part of my holistic wellness. It grounds me, reminds me of what truly matters, and recharges me in a way nothing else can.
How Holistic Wellness Works for Others
What I’ve found in my journey has been mirrored by others. My colleague, the startup founder, began integrating holistic wellness into her life as well. She started with mindfulness practices and found that being present in the moment, even during stressful meetings, helped her manage her anxiety. She also began incorporating more exercise, inspired by my routine, and found it to be a powerful way to release stress and build confidence.
Another friend, a solopreneur who had been battling severe burnout, discovered the benefits of mindfulness in small, everyday tasks. Like me, he found peace in the mundane—whether it was washing his car or organizing his workspace. He also embraced a supplement routine and started listening to self-help podcasts, which gave him the motivation and tools to rebuild his business with a more balanced approach.
These stories, including my own, highlight the transformative impact of holistic wellness. It’s not about perfection or rigid routines; it’s about incorporating wellness into your life in a way that feels sustainable and true to who you are. It’s about understanding that success isn’t just about reaching your business goals—it’s about thriving in every aspect of your life.
Finding Your Balance
If you’re an entrepreneur, you know the demands are high, and the pressures are real. But remember, you don’t have to sacrifice your well-being to achieve your dreams. Holistic wellness offers a path to balance, helping you align your body, mind, and spirit so that you can perform at your best—sustainably.
Start small. Practice mindfulness in your daily activities, even in something as simple as making your morning coffee. Make time for physical activity that energizes you, whether it’s lifting weights, yoga, or a walk in your neighborhood. Nourish your body with supplements and healthy food, and don’t forget to rest. Whether it’s through journaling, listening to a podcast, or spending time with loved ones, find what recharges you and make it a priority.
The journey of entrepreneurship is not just about what you build; it’s about who you become along the way. Embrace holistic wellness, and you’ll find that the magic you once believed in as a child is still very much alive—within you, guiding you toward a life of balance, fulfillment, and true success.
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