The entrepreneurial PTSD

The entrepreneurial PTSD emanating from failed businesses is a real thing. 

The feeling of shame, embarrassment & even rejection is a real emotional battle for some to overcome. I have seen so many founders and business owners suffer in silence. And the effects of the suffering destroys their creativity, zeal for life and passion for the future. 

They remain stuck. Confused. Cluttered minds. And broken spirits.

Some tips on how to deal with the “deer in headlights effect” that comes from a failed business: 

1. Acceptance: The first step towards dealing with any failure is acceptance. Understand that it's okay to fail and it doesn't make you a failure as a person. It's a part of the business landscape and even the most successful entrepreneurs have faced setbacks.

2. Emotional Support: Seek emotional support from friends, family, or professional counselors. Don't isolate yourself. Sometimes, talking about your experiences can provide relief and a fresh perspective.

3. Mindfulness and Self-Care: Engage in activities that promote mental well-being. This could include things like meditation, yoga, regular exercise, healthy eating, and ensuring you get enough sleep.

4. Reframe Failure: Try to shift your perspective on failure. Instead of viewing it as a negative, try to see it as an opportunity for learning and growth. Many successful entrepreneurs view their past failures as vital stepping-stones to their later success.

5. Take a Break: If possible, take some time off to recharge and disconnect from the business world. This can help you come back with a fresh perspective and renewed energy.

6. Professional Help: If the feelings of anxiety, depression, or other mental health symptoms persist, seek help from a mental health professional. Therapies like cognitive-behavioral therapy can help you understand and change thought patterns that lead to harmful behaviors or feelings of distress.

7. Join a Peer Group: There are many entrepreneur support groups, both offline and online, where you can connect with people who have had similar experiences. Sharing your experience and learning from others can be therapeutic and enlightening.

8. Plan Your Next Steps: Once you're feeling better, start planning your next business or career move. Use your failure as a learning experience to build a stronger and more resilient future business.

9. Education: Use this opportunity to expand your knowledge. Attend workshops, read books, or enroll in courses that can provide you with new skills and insights.

10. Maintain a Positive Attitude: Cultivate positivity and optimism. Remember, this setback is temporary, and with the right mindset, you can overcome it and succeed in the future.

Bonus Tip.

Set New Goals: Setting new, achievable goals can give you a sense of purpose and direction. This can be particularly helpful in overcoming feelings of being "stuck" or overwhelmed.

Remember, it's normal to feel lost or down after a business failure, but with time and the right strategies, you can recover and come back even stronger.

VT