Finding Calm Amidst the Entrepreneurial Storm
Written on
Chapter 1: Understanding Stillness
The entrepreneurial journey is often tumultuous, filled with highs and lows that can leave one feeling overwhelmed.
Moments of excitement are frequently followed by intense anxiety. As Elon Musk famously remarked, entrepreneurship feels like "chewing glass while staring into the abyss." This emotional roller coaster, compounded by the relentless barrage of information from social media and news outlets, makes it challenging to focus on what truly matters. So, how can we not just survive but actually flourish as entrepreneurs? The answer lies in discovering Stillness.
Marcus Aurelius beautifully described it: "To be like the rock that the waves keep crashing over. It stands unmoved, and the raging of the sea falls still around it."
What is Stillness?
In his book, "Stillness is the Key," Ryan Holiday portrays Stillness as the act of slowing down and "reducing the inputs." While many might associate stillness with deep meditation or a monk-like tranquility, it encompasses much more.
Stillness represents a withdrawal from the chaos of information, aiming to clarify our thoughts and ideas. It offers the mental space needed to concentrate effectively, enabling us to detach from the continuous stream of information that our minds must process daily.
Creativity Requires Space
Entrepreneurship thrives on creativity, which in turn demands a clear mind and intense focus. When our thoughts are cluttered, creativity struggles to flourish. To perform at our best, we must make room in our minds.
The Consequences of a Lack of Stillness
Overwhelm often leads to a reactive mindset, overshadowing proactive decision-making. When we are constantly reacting, we lose sight of what is truly important, leading to impaired judgment and hasty decisions to alleviate stress. This can create further challenges later on. Consequently, entrepreneurs can find themselves mentally drained, leading to burnout.
Finding Stillness
Establish a Ritual
Stillness will not simply come to us; we must carve out time for it. By transforming habits into routines and routines into rituals, we can create a structured daily schedule. Over time, we will discover moments to slow down and minimize distractions.
Learn to Say "No"
Every day, there will be individuals vying for our attention. We have the option to decline. It's unnecessary to attend every meeting or show up at every event. It’s perfectly acceptable to say, "No, I’m not interested" or "No, perhaps another time."
Go on an Information Diet
It's essential to consider an information diet. With the overwhelming influx of information, how can we think clearly? We often find ourselves binge-watching TV shows, scrolling through endless social media feeds, and responding to trivial notifications. Giving our minds some breathing space is crucial for processing information effectively. Taking a mental break allows our brains to reset and recharge.
Take a Walk (or Jog) Outside
Walking is an often-overlooked activity that can greatly enhance our mental state. Each day, I take my dogs to a secluded patch of grass nearby. Though it's sandwiched between a busy highway and a canal, it provides a perfect spot for a brisk walk.
During my strolls, I encounter various birds, turtles, and even otters. Each walk offers a new experience, allowing me to be present without dwelling on distractions. It's during these moments that some of my best ideas emerge, as I appreciate the beauty of nature and find my Stillness.
Final Thoughts
As entrepreneurs, maintaining mental clarity is essential. While achieving this is challenging, like any valuable skill, it requires practice. It doesn’t need to be a grand event; even a few moments daily can create a significant impact. Most of what matters is not urgent. By stepping back from the chaos, we can identify where to invest our mental energy. Reactivity does not foster sound decision-making; by finding Stillness, we can create space for proactive choices.
Remember, Stillness isn't about isolating oneself completely. Other methods to cultivate Stillness include:
- Engaging in a hobby
- Playing a musical instrument
- Journaling daily
- Going fishing
- Reading a book
That’s all for now! This discussion was inspired by Ryan Holiday's book, "Stillness is the Key."
Finding Stillness in the Noise: Guided Meditation | Eckhart Tolle - This guided meditation led by Eckhart Tolle helps foster a sense of calm amidst the chaos of daily life.
Guided Meditation To Find Stillness - This meditation session guides you through techniques to achieve stillness and clarity in your mind.