Naomi's Recovery from a Nervous Breakdown

Naomi's relentless pursuit of entrepreneurial success led to burnout, a nervous breakdown, and even a stroke. However, she turned her life around and now helps others avoid similar pitfalls.

Sacrificing Health for Ambition

Naomi grew up in a financially struggling family, one of five children who immigrated from Poland to Australia in the 1970s. The lack of resources created a stressful environment, with her mother working as a cleaner and her father in construction.

Despite these challenges, Naomi earned a scholarship for college, graduating with honors as an electrical engineer. This achievement provided her with a stable job and allowed her to support her family. She later pursued a part-time MBA, driven by her desire to excel in business.

The Price of Ambition

From a young age, Naomi aspired to be an entrepreneur. However, her circumstances often limited her opportunities. Observing her peers travel while she remained grounded sparked feelings of envy.

Although she initially enjoyed her engineering job, monotony soon set in, leading to a sense of discontent. Naomi recognized that boredom stifled her creativity, and after completing her MBA, her ambition intensified, pushing her into the startup world.

The Downward Spiral

Naomi's transition from a stable job to entrepreneurship was marked by overwork. Once working eight hours a day, she soon found herself toiling 16-hour days, believing it was necessary to stay productive. Yet, this relentless drive only led to frustration and setbacks, compounding her stress.

Despite her efforts, her startup struggled financially, forcing her to take on side jobs, which only added to her chronic stress. Ignoring her body's signals, Naomi's health deteriorated until she faced a nervous breakdown and a stroke, ultimately leading to a long hospital stay and bankruptcy.

A Turning Point

Fortunately, a charity helped Naomi secure a government pension, and she found solace in the support of a social worker, whom she considers an angel in her life. This experience became a catalyst for transformation, prompting her to address long-buried childhood traumas through therapy.

With a life coach's assistance, she devised a new career plan, focusing on consulting rather than returning to corporate life. Her MBA and previous experiences equipped her to become a compassionate and knowledgeable consultant.

Finding Joy in Helping Others

Naomi discovered that aiding others not only brought her joy but also fostered self-love and self-esteem. She learned to appreciate herself, which enhanced her ability to love others—something she felt had been missing.

This new career alleviated her boredom and chronic stress, allowing her to reconnect with her true self. She realized that wealth alone does not equate to happiness; true fulfillment comes from within.

Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

When asked about advice for those facing burnout, Naomi emphasized that entrepreneurship may appear glamorous but entails significant sacrifices. She cautioned against comparing oneself to high-profile entrepreneurs, noting that each individual's capacity varies.

Naomi recognized that her initial decisions were emotionally driven rather than logical. If she could start over, she would prioritize a foundational strategy that included delegation to avoid an unsustainable workload.

She stressed that while it's crucial to harness one's skills, attempting to master every aspect of a business can lead to burnout. Chronic stress is a common precursor to physical and mental health issues.

For those with an entrepreneurial spirit, Naomi suggested considering intrapreneurship—working within a company to innovate without the risks of starting a business. This path allows for creativity and productivity without the burden of administrative tasks.

A Positive Outcome

Naomi's narrative is not just one of struggle but also of triumph. By embracing a slower pace and focusing on her health, she transformed her consulting firm into a successful venture.

At over 60, she realized her childhood dream, launching a startup that flourished. This journey taught her that happiness and fulfillment extend beyond monetary success.

Naomi now serves as a guiding light for aspiring entrepreneurs, helping them avoid burnout and discover their best selves. Her story reinforces the importance of taking care of one’s mental health while pursuing one's dreams.

Thank you for engaging with this inspiring journey. May you lead a healthy and fulfilling life.