Women Entrepreneurs in Singapore Share How They Keep Their Mental Wellbeing in Check

As we celebrate mental health awareness day, we need to acknowledge that sometimes the challenges we face are part of life and the true beauty that deserves recognition is our resilience, grit and attitude

Mental health is a trending phrase, often dangerously tossed around to describe our everyday feelings of discomfort, pain or stress. Other times, people genuinely experiencing overwhelming, and uncontrollable mental health issues are hiding in shame for fear of appearing weak or are confused about the precise help they need. In Singapore, there is an abundance of resources directed at promoting positive mental health. Yet, it can feel daunting to rely solely on the advice of others when we feel low, as the only solution to help us out of a dark place.

We need to appreciate that as individuals we are uniquely amazing and complex, and there are numerous things we can do daily, (all backed by science) that increase our physical and mental well-being. When we acknowledge that happiness can be within our control, we are more motivated to sacrifice time, to bring forth effort, to be realistic and optimistic in our mind to do all we can, and to look after ourselves.

As a Life & Happiness Coach and the founder of Getting of Happy, I knew when I created the deck of 31 cards with ideas and activities that increase physical and mental well-being, that I wanted a constant reminder of the small things that make me happier. I wanted ownership, autonomy and control of healthy habits like gratitude, meditation, sleep, exercise, and kindness and the true intent to incorporate this to create a happier life.

I spoke to several of Singapore’s top female CEOs and entrepreneurs to understand how they keep their physical and mental well-being in check, and this is what they had to say:

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“I see my own mental health as a holistic one, and the brain’s health is one connected to health, diet, gut health and sleep response. Sleep is the tide that raises all boats and endorphins from exercise keep me energised.” —Jaelle Ang, CEO of The Great Room

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“I guard my weekends fiercely to avoid burnout and improve my productivity during the week. I prioritise rest and spend time with people who uplift me and inspire me, especially my husband who is my biggest cheerleader and adviser.” —Leanne Robers, Co-founder & Co-CEO, She Loves Tech

“Self-care. Your cup must be full before you can fill the cups of others.” —Tjin Lee, Founder Mercury PR, Marketing & Events

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“Being busy and always on the go, I focus on having quiet time to be still, think and reflect. I do this by taking long walks (10K steps daily) and reading. I also set reminders on my phone to take breaks and to practise gratitude.” —Anna Vanessa Haotanto, Founder of The New Savvy

“For me, it’s my family and kids. They are my everything and all I need to maintain my sanity. I “Marie Kondo” my life and people around me, and stay away from negativity as much as possible in my environment.” —Lynn Yeow-DeVito, Co-Founder Loop PR

“Running is a chance for me to slow down and a time for reflection. This translates to a breath of fresh air for my mental state, and is a great way to recalibrate your brain to have a positive outlook and of course the endorphins after each run is unbeatable.” —Shanthi Regupathy, Managing Director for Coco Public Relations

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“I prioritise taking 15 minutes each morning to listen to motivational podcasts to keep me focused and grounded.” —Savina Chow, Entrepreneur

“To keep my state of mind in check, incorporating quality me-time daily is key. What I find the most therapeutic is a good walk outdoors. Spending alone time with fresh air and a good music playlist allows me to relax, reflect and recharge which ultimately leads to mental clarity.” —Serina S. Bajaj, Co-Founder of Kind Kones

“Small things like listening to my favourite music and going on walks in nature really relax me. I love to sing Disney songs with my daughter and dance with her because it instantly reminds me what life is all about! When in doubt focus on your breathing and it truly resets and grounds you.” —Brie Benfell, Co-Founder of Anjea

Be Your Own Sunshine

In our lives, we will certainly need the advice and help of others when moments feel too overwhelming. We aren’t superhumans that can fight every battle alone and asking for help and reaching out is the bravest thing you can do. I encourage you, whenever you can, in the moments that feel like they will break you, to have faith in yourself.

Rely on the simplest things, that undoubtedly takes effort; like getting fresh air, letting go of what you can’t control, prioritizing sleep, eating healthy, moments of meditation, eating right, practising gratitude, saying sorry, or even exercising. Every day is a new opportunity to try again and be your own sunshine.