The Women’s Entrepreneurs Network (WEN) recently hosted an insightful Lunch and Learn session led by Sanam Thakur, a lead coach at the re:think. The workshop explored the theme, “We Think, We Do: The Power of Connecting Thoughts to Sustainable Action,” and provided participants with valuable tools and frameworks to deepen their self-awareness, build emotional resilience, and take meaningful, sustainable actions in their personal and professional lives.
Key Insights from the Workshop
1. The Energetic Self Perception Model:
Sanam introduced the Energetic Self Perception Model, a framework that categorizes mental and emotional states into seven levels—from shutting down to creating. These levels help individuals understand how they show up in different situations and how their energy impacts their thoughts, emotions, and actions. The model encourages people to reflect on their default tendencies and empowers them to intentionally shift toward higher, more constructive energy levels. The assesment has been recognized by Forbes as a top 3 assessment every leader should have.
2. Catabolic vs. Anabolic Energy:
Sanam emphasized the distinction between catabolic energy, which is draining and destructive, and anabolic energy, which is constructive and empowering. These energy types influence not only how we feel but also how we interact with others and make decisions. Understanding this distinction allows individuals to recognize when they are stuck in unproductive energy patterns and make conscious choices to shift toward anabolic energy for better outcomes.
3. The Connection Between Awareness and Action:
A key theme of the session was the importance of turning self-awareness into sustainable action. Sanam explained how reflecting on core thoughts and emotional triggers can help individuals identify patterns that may be holding them back. By aligning actions with values and adopting a growth-oriented mindset, individuals can create habits that lead to long-term personal and professional success.
Continuing Your Self-Awareness Journey
Sanam shared several practical strategies and resources for those looking to deepen their self-awareness and take intentional steps toward growth:
1. Reflect Through Mindfulness:
Reflection, through journaling or micro moments, is a powerful tool for self-reflection. By writing or spending at least 5 minutes daily reflecting about your thoughts, emotions, and reactions to daily events, you can uncover underlying patterns and gain clarity on what drives your decisions. Start by asking yourself reflective questions such as:
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- What triggered my emotional response today?
- What values do I want to prioritize in my actions?
- What energy level am I operating from right now?
2. Explore Your Core Values:
Sanam emphasized the importance of understanding your core values and how they influence your decisions and behaviors. Tools like the Think 2 Perform values deck can help you identify and prioritize your values, making it easier to align your actions with the person you aspire to be.
3. Practice the Thought-Emotion-Action Model:
This simple exercise helps you break down your reactions into manageable steps:
- Identify the thought: What is the belief or assumption driving your reaction?
- Acknowledge the emotion: What feelings arise from this thought?
- Choose an action: How can you respond in a way that aligns with your values and goals?
4. Build Sustainable Habits:
Sanam highlighted the connection between identity and habits, referencing James Clear’s Atomic Habits. To create lasting change, focus on who you want to become rather than solely on what you want to achieve. For example, instead of setting a goal to “exercise more,” reframe it as “I am someone who prioritizes their health.” This subtle shift reinforces self-awareness and aligns your actions with your identity.
5. Seek Personal Growth Resources:
There are countless resources to support your journey, from books and podcasts to tools and assessments. Some recommendations include:
- Rarebreed by Sonny Bonnell & Ashleigh Hansberger
- Energy Leadership by Bruce D Schneider
- The Mountain is You by Brianna West
Additionally, Sanam offers a free self-awareness workbook on her website and one-on-one coaching options for those seeking personalized guidance. She will also be hosting a 2025 workshop in April. Register here: https://forms.gle/UEhxE29P3TZiCeVKA
6. Embrace Coaching and Feedback:
For deeper exploration, consider working with a coach or mentor who can guide you through tools like the Energy Leadership Index (ELI) assessment. This framework provides valuable insights into your personal energy patterns and helps you identify areas for growth.
Get in Touch:
Website: www.theRethink.com
IG: https://www.instagram.com/theRethinkCoach
LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanamthakur/
Why Self-Awareness Matters
As Sanam explained, self-awareness is a cornerstone of personal and professional success. Research from the Harvard Business Review shows that self-aware individuals are more confident, creative, and effective leaders. By understanding your mental and emotional patterns, you can approach challenges with greater clarity, improve relationships, and make decisions that align with your values.
The journey to self-awareness is ongoing, but with the right tools and strategies, it becomes a powerful driver of growth and fulfillment. Start small, reflect often, and remember that every step forward is an opportunity to connect your thoughts to meaningful and sustainable action.
For more resources and coaching opportunities, visit Sanam’s website: www.theRethink.com or explore upcoming events with the Women’s Entrepreneurs Network (WEN).
1. Financial Planning
- Quarterly Review: Evaluate Q1 financial performance; compare actual performance to budget or projections.
- Cash Flow Management: Ensure sufficient cash flow for Q2 operations and plan for unexpected expenses.
- Tax Filings: For Hong Kong entrepreneurs, finalize and submit your 2024/25 tax return (due around May for profits tax returns).
- Review Pricing Strategies: Reassess your pricing model to ensure profitability amidst market changes.
- Debt Management: Review outstanding invoices and follow up on overdue payments.
2. Strategic Growth
- Set Q2 Goals: Define clear, measurable objectives for growth, such as increasing revenue, acquiring new customers, or launching new products/services.
- Evaluate Q1 KPIs: Assess key performance indicators (KPIs) to identify areas for improvement.
- Market Research: Study trends and competitors to adjust your strategies for upcoming industry shifts.
- Business Development: Seek partnerships or collaborations that can help expand your reach or offerings.
3. Operations and Processes
- Optimize Processes: Identify inefficiencies in your workflow and implement tools or systems to improve them.
- Tech Upgrades: Evaluate current technology and invest in upgrades or new software (e.g., CRM tools, accounting software, or project management platforms).
- Inventory Check: Conduct a mid-year inventory audit if applicable, to prepare for Q3 demand or seasonal changes.
- Prepare for Growth: Plan for scaling up (e.g., hiring, increasing capacity) if your Q1 performance met or exceeded expectations.
4. Marketing and Sales
- Campaign Analysis: Review the results of Q1 marketing efforts and refine your Q2 strategy.
- Seasonal Promotions: Plan marketing campaigns around relevant spring and summer holidays (e.g., Mother’s Day, Dragon Boat Festival in Hong Kong).
- Customer Feedback: Collect feedback through surveys or reviews to refine your offerings and improve customer experience.
- Content Strategy: Update your content calendar with blog posts, social media updates, and email campaigns to engage your audience.
- Sales Pipeline Review: Analyze your sales funnel to identify and address bottlenecks.
5. Team and Leadership
- Team Management: Hold Q2 planning meetings to align your team with quarterly goals.
- Performance Reviews: Conduct mid-year performance evaluations and provide feedback to employees.
- Upskilling: Invest in employee training or workshops to enhance skills and productivity.
- Outsource or Hire: If you’re a solopreneur, consider outsourcing tasks or hiring part-time help where needed.
6. Networking and Community
- Attend Events: Participate in industry trade shows, networking events, or conferences to grow your network.
- Host a Workshop/Webinar: Establish yourself as a thought leader by sharing your expertise with potential clients or collaborators.
- Engage with Communities: Join local business groups, such as Chambers of Commerce, or online communities to build relationships and gain insights.
7. Innovation and Product Development
- Product/Service Refinement: Gather feedback from Q1 customers to improve your offerings.
- R&D Investments: Test new product ideas or service enhancements to stay ahead of competitors.
- Digital Transformation: Explore new technologies, such as AI tools, to enhance efficiency and effectiveness.
8. Legal and Compliance
- Annual Business Review: Ensure your business is compliant with local regulations, including license renewals and reporting requirements.
- Intellectual Property: If applicable, protect trademarks, patents, or copyrights for new products or services.
- Contracts and Agreements: Review and update vendor, client, or employee contracts as needed.
9. Sustainability Efforts
- Green Initiatives: Implement eco-friendly practices, such as reducing waste, using sustainable suppliers, or adopting energy-efficient solutions.
- CSR Activities: Plan or participate in community activities to build goodwill and give back.
10. Personal Development
- Skill Development: Take an online course, attend a workshop, or read books to strengthen your entrepreneurial skills.
- Health and Wellness: Maintain work-life balance by scheduling time for exercise, relaxation, and hobbies.
- Reflect and Recharge: Review your personal goals and achievements from Q1 and adjust plans for Q2.
By following this checklist, you can ensure a productive and successful Q2 while staying on track to meet your 2025 business goals!
Know your audience:
Always start with the audience. Who are they? What do they care about? What emotional needs can your brand fulfil? Seth Godin’s analogy is a great reminder: people buying a drill bit aren’t after the tool itself. They’re after the sense of satisfaction from a tidy home or the pride in a project well done.
For example, IKEA doesn’t just sell furniture—it sells the promise of stylish, affordable homes that express individuality. Your story needs to address what your audience truly values.
Define your brand’s personality
A brand isn’t just a product or service—it’s a personality people want to connect with.
Ask yourself: If my brand were a famous character, who would it be? Patagonia is an environmental activist—rugged, resourceful, and passionate about sustainability.
Next: List three defining traits of your brand and actions that reflect those traits.
For instance:
- Trait: Resourceful
- Action: Using eco-friendly materials and innovative upcycling processes in every product
By grounding your brand personality in values and actions, you’ll create a consistent and authentic voice
Structure for impact:
Use a storytelling framework like Freytag’s Pyramid or Campbell’s Hero’s Journey. Your customer is the hero, and your brand is the guide that helps them achieve their goals. Show their transformation. For example, Nike’s iconic campaigns focus on the emotional journey of athletes overcoming challenges, with Nike as the enabler. Whether you sell shoes, software, or services, map out how you move your customers from problem to solution, from struggle to success.
What do most founders miss out on when doing this for themselves?
Many founders make their personal story their entire brand story. Both are crucial but serve different purposes:
Founder story:
This is the personal journey behind the business—your motivations, challenges, and key moments. A founder story inspires trust and showcases authenticity.
Example: Sara Blakely founded Spanx after struggling to find comfortable shapewear. Her journey from selling fax machines to building a billion-dollar brand with just $5,000 demonstrates resilience, innovation, and passion. It’s relatable and aspirational.
Brand narrative:
The brand narrative goes beyond the founder. It’s about the company’s mission, values, and impact on its customers and the world.
Example: Spanx’s brand story centres on empowering women to feel confident in their skin. By promoting body positivity and inclusivity, the brand creates a deeper connection with its audience, separate from Sara Blakely’s personal story.
The key is to connect the two stories strategically. The founder story sets the stage, but the brand narrative sustains long-term engagement.
Any examples of founders whose brand stories are on point?
Sara Blakely of Spanx is a gold standard for blending founder and brand narratives.
Her founder story: She openly shares her struggles with uncomfortable hosiery and how she created a solution, making her relatable and inspiring.
The brand narrative: Spanx embodies empowerment, inclusivity, and innovation, focusing on helping women feel their best.
Another great example is Ben Francis of Gymshark.
His founder story: A young fitness enthusiast, he started Gymshark in his garage while working as a pizza delivery boy. His story of hard work, passion, and self-belief resonates with Gymshark’s community of fitness lovers.
The brand narrative: Gymshark’s mission is to unite the conditioning community, celebrating progress over perfection. It’s not just about gym wear—it’s about fostering a global movement of like-minded people.
What are the biggest challenges when putting a brand story together, and how do you overcome these?
Challenge 1: Balancing personal and brand narratives.
Solution: Clearly define the roles of each story. For example, Elon Musk’s founder story is rooted in vision and bold risks, but Tesla’s brand story focuses on sustainability and innovation in transportation.
Always ask: does this story highlight my personal journey, or does it focus on the customer’s needs and the brand’s impact?
Challenge 2: Finding clarity and focus.
Many brands try to say too much at once, which dilutes their message.
Solution: Simplify. Identify one core message you want your audience to remember. For example, Apple’s brand story boils down to “Think Different.” It conveys innovation, creativity, and breaking norms in just two words.
Example: A wellness startup might focus its brand story on creating moments of calm in chaotic lives rather than trying to cover every benefit of its products.
Challenge 3: Connecting emotionally.
Sometimes, the story feels flat because it doesn’t address what the audience cares about.
Solution: Use customer stories. Highlight how your product transformed someone’s life. For instance, Dove’s “Real Beauty” campaign shared authentic stories from women, making its brand mission—redefining beauty—feel personal and impactful.
How do people find you if they want to get in touch to know more?
Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imogenshort/
Written by Imogen Short.
Imogen Short has launched The Narrative Edge, a must-read newsletter for female leaders and female-founded brands. Subscribe to gain access to expert insights, practical storytelling tools, and actionable advice to craft a powerful personal story and brand narrative that truly resonates.
Pursuing Ambition Without Sacrificing Well-Being
Entrepreneurs wear an astonishing number of hats—visionary, strategist, problem-solver, leader, and so many more. Each role requires energy, focus, and determination, and while these traits drive success, they also come with a hidden cost. Late nights, endless decision-making, and intense pressure can take a serious toll on mental health, often leaving entrepreneurs grappling with stress, anxiety, and, sometimes, burnout.
What if maintaining your mental well-being could be the key to unlocking your full potential? The good news is that today’s digital landscape offers more opportunities than ever to support entrepreneurs on their mental health journeys. From online therapy to cutting-edge digital therapeutics and on-demand menopause wellness programs, these tools make emotional resilience and mental clarity achievable—without requiring entrepreneurs to hit pause on their ambitions.
The Overlooked Toll of Entrepreneurship on Mental Health
Building a business from the ground up is a deeply personal endeavour. Entrepreneurs are not just managing the operations side of things; they are also investing their emotional selves in their ventures. There’s hardly a moment to catch your breath when every decision, success, or setback feels like a reflection of your capabilities. Compound these challenges with societal expectations or personal obligations, and the stress can easily feel overwhelming.
Failure is part of the process, but when you’re the front-facing leader of your venture, setbacks can feel crushing. For many, this manifests as a constant cycle of self-doubt, stress, and even feelings of isolation. That’s why acknowledging and proactively addressing mental health is so crucial—not just for better living but for better leading.
Mental barriers are invisible but deeply real. The unique weight entrepreneurs carry must be addressed, and tools like online therapy have emerged as lifelines by offering a safe space to talk, strategize, and heal.
The Power of Online Therapy and Digital Therapeutics
Online therapy has revolutionized how entrepreneurs care for their mental health. With tight schedules dictating every aspect of daily life, the convenience of digital counseling can’t be overstated. Imagine squeezing a confidential, judgment-free session into an evening at home or during a quiet hour at the office—all without the added challenge of commuting.
Beyond traditional therapy and coaching, digital therapeutics introduce a whole new era of accessible healing. These evidence-backed apps and programs are built to tackle common mental health challenges. For instance, platforms offering guided cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can walk users through actionable techniques for managing anxiety or negative thought patterns. Similarly, mindfulness apps train the brain to stay present, breaking free from the cycle of overthinking. And evidence-based self-hypnosis apps help you leverage the power of your mind for better physical and mental health.
By blending the human connection of online therapy with the science-backed tools of digital therapeutics, entrepreneurs gain a multi-faceted approach to mental health. The result? Not just coping with challenges but overcoming them in ways that fuel focus, creativity, and resilience.
On-Demand Wellness Programs – Solutions for the Self-Starter
If there’s one thing entrepreneurs pride themselves on, it’s their independent mindset. On-demand wellness programs speak directly to this trait, offering self-guided solutions tailored to fit into any lifestyle. Whether it’s stress management modules, resilience-building courses, or interactive goal-setting workshops, these programs empower you to take control of your mental fitness on your terms.
For example, entrepreneurs dealing with decision-making fatigue may find structured mindfulness training in an on-demand format a game-changer. Instead of setting aside hours for in-person sessions, you can lead yourself through bite-sized activities designed to improve focus and decision quality. These programs are crafted with busy schedules in mind, providing practical ways to boost mental fitness while building your business empire.
These digital solutions prove that self-care doesn’t have to feel indulgent or time-consuming; it can be as simple as a daily ten-minute session, or a weekend skill-building course embedded into your routine.
From Surviving to Thriving – How Mental Health Tools Elevate Success
Recovery, resilience, and clarity are the foundation for thriving in both work and life. Entrepreneurs who seek personal growth find that these qualities not only improve their well-being but also enhance their business practices. When you sharpen your mental fitness through tools like online therapy, digital therapeutics, or on-demand programs, every aspect of your entrepreneurial life can transform.
Imagine you’re no longer paralyzed by anxiety before a big pitch, thanks to techniques mastered through regular therapy sessions. Or maybe your collaborative relationships flourish because you’ve learned how to set healthy boundaries through a mindfulness app or a wellness course. These are tangible shifts that ripple into stronger business outcomes. Better decision-making, improved patience under pressure, and increased emotional intelligence aren’t just key assets for mental health; they’re also game-changers for innovation and leadership.
Relatable stories drive this point home. Think of someone balancing the chaos of launching a startup while dealing with feelings of inadequacy. With the help of online therapy, they learn to manage self-doubt through grounding exercises. Their progress snowballs, boosting confidence in pitching to investors and clarifying their long-term vision.
By giving your mind the same care you extend to your business plan or marketing strategy, success becomes a sustainable pursuit rather than a fleeting ambition.
Your First Steps – Building a Toolbox for Entrepreneurial Wellness
Taking the plunge into mental health tools can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. Start by exploring online therapy platforms that offer flexibility and accessibility. Look for therapists who specialize in areas relevant to entrepreneurs, such as managing stress, navigating high-pressure environments, or developing leadership skills.
If therapy feels too intimidating at first or access to practitioners is limited, digital therapeutics can be a great introduction to mental fitness. Apps offering programs like guided stress reduction or cognitive exercises create a low-pressure way to ease into active self-care.
Don’t overlook on-demand wellness programs as part of your mental health toolbox. Seek out courses or workshops from credible sources, especially those designed for entrepreneurial audiences. Many programs allow free or low-cost trials, making them easy to test without overcommitting.
Perhaps the most important step is this: treat mental health investment as a core pillar of your business plan. Just as you allocate time and resources to branding or scaling, prioritize your own well-being as the fuel that keeps everything else running.
The Business Case for Prioritizing Mental Health
The stigma around mental health is fading, replaced by a considerable body of evidence showing how emotional wellness leads to better business outcomes. Entrepreneurs don’t need to choose between self-care and success—they can achieve both. Online therapy, digital therapeutics, and on-demand wellness programs are no longer luxuries for the few; they are smart tools for any entrepreneur looking to thrive long-term.
There may always be risks and uncertainty in your entrepreneurial path. But by equipping yourself with tools to manage stress and maximize focus, you can future-proof your vision while enjoying the process of building it. Take control of your mental health today, not just for the future of your business but for yourself.
Because at the end of the day, a thriving mind builds a thriving enterprise. Remember, success isn’t about reaching the finish line first; it’s about staying strong enough to keep moving forward.
Bio:
Christine Deschemin, a renowned hypnotherapist, executive coach and mental wellness pioneer, is dedicated to helping individuals unlock their true potential through innovative, evidence-based approaches. She is the driving force behind self-hypnosis programs like UpNow Health and EverCalm Menopause, providing accessible tools for mental resilience and clarity. Committed to fostering well-being, Christine specializes in empowering entrepreneurs to thrive, blending her expertise with a passion for personal and professional success.
Financial Planning
- Review Financial Health: Assess your 2024 financial performance (profit/loss, cash flow) and set realistic goals for 2025.
- Budget for 2025: Develop a Q1 budget that accounts for Hong Kong-specific expenses (e.g., rent, utilities, MPF contributions).
- Tax Preparation: Start organizing financial documents for Hong Kong’s tax year-end (March 31). Consider consulting a tax advisor to maximize deductions.
- Currency Fluctuations: If you deal with international clients, monitor exchange rates and plan for currency risks, especially with USD or RMB.
Strategic Development
- Set Quarterly Goals: Identify key objectives for Q1 in alignment with long-term goals, such as growing local customer bases or exploring cross-border opportunities (e.g., Greater Bay Area).
- Market Trends: Research Hong Kong’s latest business trends, such as sustainability, e-commerce growth, and AI adoption.
- Adapt to Regulations: Stay updated on new government regulations or small business grants, like subsidies for digital transformation or green initiatives.
Operations
- Streamline Processes: Look for ways to simplify day-to-day operations, such as using tech tools like Xero (accounting) or Canva (marketing).
- Digital Presence: Audit and update your website or online store to meet customer expectations, particularly for mobile users in Hong Kong.
- Suppliers and Vendors: Reassess relationships with local suppliers or service providers to prioritize cost savings and efficiency.
Team and Leadership (If Applicable)
- Staff Planning: If you have employees, review their contracts and update MPF contributions and leave records.
- Team Goals: Set clear goals for your team and schedule regular check-ins.
- Outsourcing Support: As a solopreneur or small business, consider outsourcing time-consuming tasks (e.g., bookkeeping, graphic design, or social media management) to freelancers.
Marketing and Sales
- New Year & Chinese New Year Campaigns: Launch culturally relevant promotions to capitalize on the festive season.
- Social Media Strategy: Focus on platforms popular in Hong Kong, like Instagram, Facebook, and WeChat. Engage with your audience using content tailored to local culture.
- Customer Feedback: Collect and analyze feedback to refine your products or services.
- Sales Targets: Set realistic revenue goals and map out actionable strategies to achieve them.
Networking and Community
- Join Local Networks: Attend Hong Kong-based events or join groups that may help you network with like-minded individuals….like WEN!
- Cross-Border Opportunities: Explore potential partnerships in the Greater Bay Area or Southeast Asia.
Personal Development
- New Skills: Learn Mandarin or Cantonese if relevant to business growth. Alternatively, invest time in digital skills like SEO or video editing.
- Workshops: Connect with local mentors and experts by attending workshops specifically for your business. Join the WEN Women in Business Mastery Retreat, taking place on February 8th and 9th, 2025.
- Health and Balance: Manage stress with activities like yoga, hiking Hong Kong’s trails, or taking part in wellness programs.
Miscellaneous
- Legal Compliance: Ensure your business meets all local regulations, including business registration (BR), employment ordinances, and mandatory MPF contributions.
- Sustainability Practices: Align with Hong Kong’s growing focus on eco-conscious businesses by adopting green packaging or reducing waste.
- Growth Opportunities: Research expansion possibilities, collaborations with other companies and developing partnerships in the Greater Bay Area.
By focusing on these tailored tasks, you can set yourself up for a productive and successful Q1 in 2025 while navigating the unique challenges and opportunities of running a small business or solopreneurship in Hong Kong.
