A groundbreaking survey from the Emotional Wellbeing of Entrepreneurs 2024 report reveals that 31% of Indian startup founders experience imposter syndrome, struggling with self-doubt despite their visible success.
The findings shed light on the emotional challenges entrepreneurs face while building businesses in high-pressure environments.
Key Insights from the Report
Prevalence of Self-Doubt:
Around 31% of surveyed founders reported feeling undeserving of their success, even when others recognized their achievements.
Rising Stress Levels:
A staggering 68% of Indian entrepreneurs experience severe stress, with early-stage founders facing higher levels of stress and self-doubt than their more experienced peers. The report highlighted that:
- Only 57% of early-stage founders reported high levels of wellness.
- In contrast, 74% of founders with over six years of experience reported better emotional well-being.
Gender-Based Differences in Well-Being:
The emotional well-being profile showed a significant gender gap:
- 68% of women entrepreneurs reported high well-being.
- In comparison, only 55% of male founders reported the same, with men showing lower scores in everyday wellness.
Why Mental Health Matters for Entrepreneurs
The report emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health challenges in India’s fast-paced startup ecosystem.
Burnout, persistent stress, and self-doubt not only affect individual founders but can also significantly hinder business growth and innovation.
Calls for Action
The findings serve as a reminder for stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including investors, mentors, and teams, to prioritize mental health.
Creating a supportive environment that normalizes conversations about emotional well-being can help founders build resilience and long-lasting businesses.
Conclusion
As the startup ecosystem continues to grow, addressing the mental health challenges of founders is no longer optional—it’s a necessity.
By fostering open conversations and promoting mental health awareness, the Indian entrepreneurial community can ensure sustainable growth and success.
