Entrepreneurship can often be glamourised as a path to freedom, wealth, and self-fulfilment. While it certainly can be all these things, and lead to great rewards, it can also come with challenges and stress. ‘Entrepreneurship is not just about having a great idea; it’s about relentless execution and the ability to navigate challenges,’ explains Alan Shannon, Nedbank Executive: Small Business Services and Private Clients. ‘This means that entrepreneurs must be prepared for the less glamorous aspects of running a business, including countless hours spent on planning, problem-solving, and often, overcoming the mental obstacles of rejection and disappointment,’ he continues.
Shannon explains that while this reality check is by no means intended to discourage anyone from becoming an entrepreneur, but by making sure you have a balanced view, you can be better prepared to meet the challenges head-on, overcome them, and improve your chances of success – all while maintaining your mental well-being. He highlights 4 key realities that every aspiring and existing entrepreneur must be aware of:
Financial complexities and risks – One of the most daunting challenges for most entrepreneurs is financial instability. Starting a business often involves significant personal investment and the risk of debt, Shannon highlights. ‘The entrepreneur’s wealth is almost always inherently linked to the success of the business, which can create a tangled financial web if it is not managed properly,’ he says. As such, he recommends separating personal and business finances from the get-go, maintaining a dedicated business transactional account and credit card, and paying yourself a set salary to keep your finances in check and avoid complications. Just as is recommended for individuals, Shannon also advises business owners to set up an emergency fund to cover unexpected costs, and then stick to a detailed monthly budget to keep track of all financial transactions and avoid cash flow issues.
Emotional and mental strain – The psychological impact of entrepreneurship can be profound. Stress, anxiety, and burnout are common among business owners. ‘Entrepreneurship can take a toll on your mental health,’ Shannon warns, ‘so it’s imperative to have a strong support system in place, whether it’s friends, family, or professional help.’ He also advises business owners to prioritise self-care, set boundaries between work and personal life, and try to maintain a healthy exercise routine, as well as keeping up interests and hobbies outside of the workplace. ‘Don’t hesitate to seek professional help if stress becomes overwhelming,’ he says. ‘Asking for support is not a weakness and it certainly beats the alternative of having to close your business because of mental health challenges.’
Work-life-family balance – The demanding nature of entrepreneurship often leads to long hours and blurred boundaries between work and personal life. This can put a strain on personal relationships and family life. Shannon suggests that one of the keys to achieving a good balance between work and life is to manage your clients’ expectations. ‘It can be difficult to say no to clients, especially if you’re a new business owner, but this simple word is key to managing your time effectively,’ he explains, ‘and it is vital to set boundaries and ensure you make time for personal relationships and activities outside of work.’
Accepting uncertainty and failure – Shannon points out that uncertainty and thoughts of failure are inevitable parts of every entrepreneurial journey and that many entrepreneurs will likely face multiple setbacks before achieving success. ‘Embrace failures as learning opportunities and use them to build resilience and adapt to changing circumstances,’ he urges. ‘Each setback is a step towards eventual success, and you have to accept that to persevere through the tough times.’
Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs
For those considering entrepreneurship, practical advice can be invaluable. Shannon recommends surrounding yourself with a capable and supportive team, staying updated with industry trends, seeking out opportunities to learn from other entrepreneurs, and leveraging business and financial resources wherever you can. ‘SimplyBiz® sponsored by Nedbank is an excellent resource for all these support elements,’ he explains. ‘This platform gives you access to a vast digital community of entrepreneurs who are ready to share advice, offer inspiration and provide mentorship. Leveraging platforms like this and harnessing the support and expertise of your Nedbank Small Business Services relationship banker, can be the difference between a stressful entrepreneurial experience and a successful and highly rewarding business.’
Ultimately, while entrepreneurship is not a journey for the faint hearted, with the right mindset and support, it can be a deeply satisfying and very lucrative experience. ‘While the path of entrepreneurship is challenging, it is also one of the most fulfilling anyone can take. By being realistic about the challenges and proactive in finding solutions, entrepreneurs can build successful businesses and live fulfilling lives.’