Dive into the world of Jachim Gobien, the visionary founder of the finance consulting company, GALABLYNX PTE. LTD. Driven by his ambition for financial independence, the thrill of scaling a business, and the allure of living abroad, Jachim embarked on an entrepreneurial path with its unique challenges and rewards. In this introspective interview, he reveals the highs and lows of his journey, the physical manifestations of stress, and his strategies for maintaining a healthy balance amidst the demands of his role.
What inspired you to become a founder?
Ambition to become financially independent, the adventure to scale a business, and living abroad.
During your time as a founder, have there been specific instances where you’ve felt particularly stressed or overwhelmed? If so, could you share a brief overview?
Financial distress during the start-up phase when I didn’t have any customers yet. Often I asked myself the question whether I could succeed.
What warning signs indicate to you that you might be feeling stressed or overwhelmed?
Pain in back, neck, shoulders, and poor quality of sleep.
Could you share an instance when your mental health impacted your business and how you navigated through that?
Lack of focus resulted in unproductivity. I tried to take a step back and re-energize.
Can you identify specific aspects of your role as a founder that have had a substantial impact, either positive or negative, on your well-being?
Pro: More control over your timing. Con: Sometimes it’s difficult to balance work-life.
Who are in your support system, and how do you engage with them during challenging times?
I don’t know many people that are also running companies.
Have you ever considered professional help to address mental health concerns during your founder journey? If so, how was that like?
No, I believe in internal strength and outdoor activities to rejuvenate.
What are some practical strategies you’ve implemented to maintain your mental health while managing your startup?
Outsourcing of low-value work and reserving a minimum of 1 day a week to relax.
How do you strive for a balance between your professional and personal life? Are there any particular boundaries or practices you’ve found helpful?
Minimum 1 day a week take off. When you leave the office, usually I disconnect from work.
If you could offer one piece of advice to fellow founders on managing well-being or stress, what would it be?
Sometimes you need to disconnect from work.
Are there any other aspects of your experience as a founder related to mental well-being that we didn’t ask about but you think are important to share?
Can’t think of anything immediately.
What other questions should be included to better understand the mental health challenges founders face?
- The connection between sports and stress management.
- Management of diet and stress.
Ending Remarks
Jachim’s entrepreneurial narrative paints a vivid picture of the dualities that come with leading a startup. From the initial financial uncertainties to the ever-present quest for success, the journey can be taxing both mentally and physically. However, it’s Jachim’s proactive approach to well-being that stands out. He emphasizes the significance of disconnecting from work, the rejuvenating power of outdoor activities, and the importance of outsourcing tasks to maintain focus on high-value activities. His insights serve as a valuable reminder to fellow founders about the importance of self-care, the need to occasionally step back, and the benefits of activities like sports and a balanced diet in managing stress.
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