Managing Mental Health While Running Multiple Businesses

Because success should never come at the cost of your wellbeing.

When people hear I run multiple businesses, speak on international stages, write books, publish others, and still manage a chronic illness, they often ask, “How do you do it all?”

The truth? I don’t do it all. And I definitely don’t do it alone.

Behind the awards, achievements and social media posts, there’s another reality, the daily commitment to protecting my mental health while wearing a thousand hats.

It hasn’t always been easy. But through trial, error, and a lot of self-awareness, I’ve learned how to manage my mental health while leading teams, making decisions, and showing up for the people who rely on me.

If you’re an entrepreneur, founder, or multitasking powerhouse navigating your own mental load, this is for you.

1. Acknowledge That Mental Health Is Business Health

You are the heartbeat of your business. If you crash, so does everything you’ve built.

For me, mental health is not a side note; it’s a core strategy. Whether it’s my MS, anxiety, trauma recovery, or just exhaustion, I’ve had to recognise that looking after my mind is as essential as managing cash flow or launching new products.

Put simply, sustainable business growth requires sustainable self-care.

2. Schedule Rest With the Same Importance as Meetings

If it’s not in the calendar, it doesn’t happen. So I schedule:

• Mental health days

• Gym sessions and walks

• Social connection

• Creative time (painting, journalling, silence)

Burnout doesn’t announce itself, it creeps in quietly. Rest is a form of resilience. And when you’re running multiple businesses, you can’t afford to run on empty.

3. Delegate Without Guilt

This was one of my biggest lessons.

I used to believe I had to do it all. Now, I build brilliant teams around me. I delegate what drains me and focus on where I thrive.

Letting go isn’t a sign of weakness; it’s a strategy for mental clarity.

If you’re trying to juggle everything, ask yourself: “What can only I do?” Then delegate the rest.

4. Build Emotional Safety Into Your Business Culture

As a leader, I model mental wellness for my team by being honest, setting boundaries, and encouraging others to speak up.

We check in. We talk real. We laugh when we can. We pause when we must.

Mental health isn’t a taboo topic; it’s part of our culture at JMC. Because people who feel safe perform better, and last longer.

5. Be Willing to Pivot Your Pace

There have been seasons where I’ve had to slow down, when my body says no. When grief or health hits hard. When life demands rest instead of action.

And I’ve learnt that’s okay.

Momentum doesn’t always mean speed. Sometimes resilience means staying still long enough to catch your breath before the next wave.

You don’t need to hustle 24/7 to be successful. You need to listen to your body, honour your limits, and keep showing up on your terms.

Final Thoughts: Mental Health Is the Real CEO

You can build an empire and still feel broken inside if you ignore what matters.

But if you protect your peace, honour your limits, and lead with compassion, for yourself and others, you can create something that truly lasts.

My journey hasn’t been perfect.

But it’s real .

And that’s what makes it powerful.

If you’re running multiple businesses, navigating challenges, and wondering how to keep going, please know you’re not alone.

And please know: your mental health is worth prioritising, every single time.

📥 Download the checklist: Mental Health Checklist for Business Owners. This checklist is designed for entrepreneurs, founders, and business owners juggling multiple responsibilities.

Use it weekly to assess your mental health, create boundaries, and stay grounded while leading your business.

Download here

Want a speaker who blends business leadership with lived experience in mental health and chronic illness?

Book Justine Martin for your next event.