In the world of startups, priorities are often based on strategy, developing a minimum viable product, securing funding and the other important tactical parts of starting a business. Unfortunately, there is one startup tool that should be prioritized, but rarely gets the attention it deserves. Mental health.

Mental health is vitally important to startup success, and sadly, many people don’t pay attention to it until it’s too late and they’re suffering the consequences. As you begin your business, make mental health a priority from day one.

Don’t Let Burnout Affect Your Work

Obviously, starting a business requires a lot of work. However, you can work hard without suffering from burnout or over-exertion. If you consistently work through your lunch breaks, at night and over the weekends, you’ll soon find yourself feeling the effects of burnout. When this happens, it’s not uncommon to feel resentment for your work, as it’s taking time away from your personal life. Furthermore, when we experience burnout, the quality of our work suffers greatly.

Do These Activities To Boost Mental Health

When you find yourself feeling burned out or overworked, there are activities you can do to mitigate stress. Gratitude journaling is a nice way to step back from the minutiae of your work and look at the big picture. Giving thanks for the things that are going well, and even the things that aren’t going well is a great practice to get into. Taking recreational breaks is another way you can prioritize your mental health. Going for a walk outside or playing frisbee with a friend can be enough to clear your head so you can return to work feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.

Do Surround Yourself With Great People

As a startup entrepreneur, it’s important to have a solid support system. Finding business partners or employees who share your drive and passion for the business can be quite helpful. It’s valuable to have someone to brainstorm with or to turn to when things get difficult.

You’ll also want to have support in your personal life. It’s important to have shoulders on which you can lean and voices who you know will be there cheering you on. Plus, it’s nice to escape from work and watch a movie with your partner or go out to dinner with your friends. 

The world of startups is exciting and hopefully lucrative. By prioritizing your mental health as you begin your startup, you’ll be setting off on the right foot, increasing your chances of success.