Embarking on the entrepreneurial path with aspirations for creative expression, autonomy in time management, and potential financial freedom, Peter Topercer, the founder behind projects like Woyago, Bellet, and Yattitude, shares his unique insights into the challenges and joys of startup life. While freedom stands at the core of his motivations, Peter’s journey wasn’t devoid of challenges, especially around the time of becoming a new parent in a foreign land.
What inspired you to become a founder?
Freedom to creatively express myself, freedom for my time management, and, if successful, financial freedom.
Have you felt overwhelmed or stressed during your time as a founder?
Only once, when my kids were born and I was in a foreign country without much control over my schedule. This overwhelming situation arose due to a combination of lack of sleep, no exercise, poor social hygiene, and company growth, all happening simultaneously. The deepest problem was the lack of control over the circumstances to make the needed improvements.
How does stress manifest for you?
Having negative thoughts and worsening relationships with people around me.
Were there times when mental well-being significantly impacted your business?
No, my mental health doesn’t affect my business. I’ve found people to take on many of my responsibilities.
How does being a founder impact your well-being, both positively and negatively?
The flexibility of my schedule and having some control over my destiny positively impacts my well-being.
Who supports you during challenging times?
My wife, with whom I discuss problems deeply, and friends, with whom I either discuss something else or share what’s happening without seeking their opinions.
Have you sought professional mental health support?
Yes, just once, a few months after my kids were born. It lasted only three months. I had higher expectations; the therapist probably wasn’t the right fit, and then the problem was pretty much resolved, so I stopped seeing her.
What strategies have you adopted to maintain your mental well-being?
Sleep well, set clear short-term and long-term life goals, stop rushing, exercise, engage in non-sleep deep rest activities, and practice gratitude for what I have or have achieved.
How do you balance your professional and personal life?
I set aside time to be fully focused on work and create without disruptions, allowing me to concentrate on my family afterward.
Any advice for fellow founders regarding managing well-being or stress?
Improving your sleep should come first; everything else will follow.
Ending Remarks
Peter’s experiences illuminate the importance of seeking balance, cherishing the moments of freedom, and understanding the value of well-being. His emphasis on the significance of sleep as a cornerstone of mental health offers a simple yet profound piece of advice for fellow founders. Through proactive strategies, clear boundaries, and the right support, Peter demonstrates that it’s possible to navigate the intricacies of startup life while maintaining a healthy mental state.
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