From Burnout to Breakthrough: How to Protect Your Passion and Mental Health as an Entrepreneur

Ever feel like your creativity gets lost in the hustle of entrepreneurship? Or like the thing you once loved now feels like a burden? You’re not alone. In this episode, we dive into what it really means to create not just for business, but for ourselves. Our guest, Mike Brennan, shares his journey through creativity, entrepreneurship, and mental health, and how all is often more connected than we realize.

Throughout the conversation, Mike reflects on his own story, weaving in universal truths that resonate whether you're just starting out or knee-deep in building something meaningful. He talks about the importance of creating space to dream, the challenges of maintaining mental health as a solopreneur, and how essential it is to stay connected to your "why." This episode is a reminder that creativity isn’t just about art or content, it's about problem-solving, vision, and reclaiming agency over your own journey.

Key takeaways to listen for: 

Creativity is Problem-Solving in Disguise: Creativity isn’t only about making art; it’s about seeing something in your mind and figuring out how to make it real. 

Mental Health Needs Intention, Not Just Awareness: It’s not enough to know you need balance, you have to make time for it. 

The Passion Trap is Real: Turning a passion into a business can slowly chip away at your love for it. External pressures like money and expectations can transform your joy into a job unless you’re intentional about protecting what fuels you.

What creative outlet or passion are you keeping for yourself just for the joy of it and how is it helping you stay grounded in your business journey?

Introducing Mike Brennan

Mike Brennan, author of Make Fun a Habit: The Creative PLAYbook for Making Life and Work Fun Again, isn't your typical Creative Consultant and Communicator; he's a passionate advocate for reigniting the lost art of fun and creativity.

Mike's expertise goes beyond the pages of his book. He's helped renowned clients like Heineken and Chase Bank infuse creativity, innovation, and fun into their work. His art graces prestigious spaces like the Ronald McDonald House and the I.D.E.A. Museum in Mesa, Arizona.

Book Mike Brennan: https://www.mikebrennan.me/s