If you’re not growing, you’re dying. This age-old quote is an all too relevant mantra for any business hoping to enjoy long term success. Constantly growing however requires an outpouring of all the creative and inspirational energies from founders and visionaries into the company’s ethos and objectives – energy that can dry up and that may need an occasional refilling.
Founder’s fatigue, or when this energy gets too low, is usually a result of company founders being worn down from tackling yet another complex challenge of bringing their businesses to better places. Given that even the Steve Jobs of the business world have to eventually take time to recharge, the question becomes, what can a company do to overcome founder’s fatigue?
We sat down with the Founders of some innovative and high growth startups to get some insight into the techniques they have for combating founder’s fatigue. Here’s what they said.
Get healthy. A lot of founders that I know will blow off steam but going to the bars on the weekend with friends. I´m not advising against a few beers, but a hangover may only compound the feelings of founder´s fatigue. Go home, order some sushi, and wake up early for a run. You´ll feel energized afterward and will have time to clear your mind as opposed to trying to erase it.
Peter Ostroske, Founder & CEO of OFI.com.co
To overcome founder’s fatigue it is important to keep your eye on the big picture. “Feeding the meter” as they say can be something a lot of founders fall into; but as the leader you must keep moving forward with changes and growth strategies. Constant communication with your team on these ideas is the best way to ensure forward progress.
Muneeb Mushtaq, AskforTask
Everyday, spare one hour in the middle of the day to yourself. Do not talk about business, do not look at your e-mails, turn off your Skype, have a cup of coffee and pastry on the side like I do, and watch something you like or do something you like. You will realize that these moments will become the perfect time outs for you that make you motivated to work better.
John Kagit, Socialeyes
Founders need to accept that it is okay to unplug from work, put your various devices down, maintain a rich personal life and to just say No. Passion, creativity and high energy for your company are fueled by taking care of your mind, body and spirit. Get some sleep, shoot some hoops and taking a break will drastically help keep fatigue at arm’s length.
Tim Nichols, ExactDrive
When the train leaves the station: It’s amazing how founder’s fatigue seems to mysteriously evaporate when the leader finally hits the launch button. Wheels start to turn, engines begin to hum, and excitement builds once the journey begins. Muscles warm up and the pace gets faster and easier to sustain. Getting your train out of the station is the fastest and most efficient way to overcome founder’s fatigue.
Shan Sundaram, Thundr
Fatigue is a big issue since founders often feel like any spare moment should be dedicated to the business. When this occurs, productivity is often low without the founder realizing. My advice is to prioritize some kind of relaxation as you would a business task by adding specific time to your schedule. Whether this is spending time with family or just taking a walk, the effect will be profound if done regularly.
Robert Sturt, UK MPLS WAN Specialist
Read more: Overcoming Founders Fatigue: Advice From Startup Founders Who Have Been There
This guest article was contributed by Publicize, a startup looking to change the way startups and SMEs approach PR. You can follow them on Twitter or Facebook.