258 | From Burnout to Balance: How to Achieve Career Success Without Overworking with Monique Helstrom

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Have you ever felt like the harder you work, the further you are from success? Many entrepreneurs and business owners push themselves to the limit, only to face burnout and exhaustion. But what if working less could actually make you more successful?

In this episode of the Marketing Strategy Academy Podcast, host Jen Vazquez speaks with Monique Hellstrom, an expert in human development and organizational growth. Monique shares her journey from workaholism to sustainable success and offers actionable strategies to help business owners break free from burnout while achieving long-term growth.

Recognizing Workaholism: The Warning Signs

Monique’s wake-up call came in the form of a health crisis—rushing from a doctor’s office to the emergency room, convinced she was having a heart attack. She was working even while hooked up to medical equipment, unable to step away from her responsibilities.

So how can you recognize the signs of workaholism before reaching that breaking point?

Common Signs of Workaholism

  • Device Obsession – If you can’t eat a meal without checking your phone, it’s a red flag.
  • Working on Weekends & Vacations – True downtime becomes nonexistent.
  • Ignoring Your Body’s Needs – Skipping meals, sacrificing sleep, and feeling constantly exhausted.
  • Feeling Guilty About Rest – If taking a break makes you anxious, it’s time to reassess.

Recognizing these patterns early can help you avoid burnout and reclaim balance in your work and personal life.

Setting Boundaries: How to Take Back Control of Your Time

For solopreneurs and small business owners, setting boundaries can feel impossible—after all, the business depends on you. But without boundaries, you risk long-term damage to your health and productivity.

Practical Ways to Set Boundaries

  1. Define Your Work Hours – Clearly communicate to clients when you are available (and stick to it).
  2. Take a Weekly Break – Even one dedicated day off can boost your energy and creativity.
  3. Turn Off Notifications – Reduce distractions by setting phone-free zones and times.
  4. Delegate and Outsource – Focus on what you do best and get help with the rest.

Jen shared her own experience of taking Tuesdays off to spend with her grandchildren—initially fearing client loss but ultimately realizing that setting boundaries made her business stronger.

Mindset Shifts for Sustainable Success

Many entrepreneurs equate working more with earning more, but real success comes from working smarter.

Key Mindset Shifts to Embrace Balance

  • Success Isn’t About Hours Worked – Your impact, not your time, determines success.
  • Confidence Comes From Doing What You’re Good At – Focus on tasks that align with your strengths and delegate the rest.
  • Rest Fuels Productivity – Stepping away often leads to breakthroughs and creative solutions.

Monique suggests finding non-work activities that bring the same sense of achievement. Whether it’s gardening, exercising, or learning a new skill, having a productive outlet outside of work is essential.

Practical Steps to Reduce Work Stress

1. Use a Project Management System

Whether it’s Asana, Trello, or an old-school notebook, keeping all tasks in one place prevents overwhelm.

2. Schedule Regular Breaks

Monique’s method:

  • Take three deep breaths every hour
  • Step outside for three minutes of sunlight every three hours

Jen also follows the Pomodoro technique, walking around her house every hour to reset her focus.

3. Get Help Where You Need It

If a task isn’t moving your business forward, outsource it. Monique struggled with social media before hiring help—freeing her to focus on what she does best.

Final Thoughts: Take Back Your Power

As a female entrepreneur, you have the power to design your own business and life. Instead of feeling trapped by work, take control by setting healthy boundaries, delegating wisely, and prioritizing well-being.

Ready to take action? Download Monique’s free Positive Feedback Guide to start fostering a more supportive, balanced work environment.

Where to find Monique Helstrom

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12 | How to Find Your Online Biz Bestie Cheerleader: Stay Motivated and Grow Your Business

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How to Find Your Online Business Bestie: The Key to Scaling Your Success

Building a business can feel isolating, especially when you’re working from home or navigating entrepreneurship alone. While team members and supportive partners play essential roles, having an online business bestie—a peer who truly understands your entrepreneurial journey—can make all the difference. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of a business bestie, how to find one, and why they’re a game-changer for your growth.

Why You Need an Online Business Bestie

1. Combatting Entrepreneurial Isolation
As entrepreneurs, we often miss out on the camaraderie of coworkers. An online business bestie fills that gap, offering someone to share victories, challenges, and even day-to-day updates with. They understand the hustle and can relate to the struggles unique to running your own business.

2. Emotional Support and Accountability
Unlike family members or friends who may not fully grasp the nuances of your work, a business bestie provides encouragement rooted in shared experiences. They hold you accountable—not like a coach pushing you to meet goals, but as a peer who reminds you of your potential.

3. Idea Sharing and Perspective
When you’re deep in your business, it’s easy to lose sight of the bigger picture. A business bestie offers fresh perspectives and actionable ideas. Whether you’re planning a launch or refining your marketing strategy, they can point out blind spots and offer creative solutions.

Common Marketing Mistakes to Avoid

Are you defining your target audience clearly? Is your branding consistent? Avoid spreading yourself too thin across platforms. Focus on a solid content strategy and regularly analyze your data. Learn to sidestep these common pitfalls at CMS25.

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Qualities to Look for in a Business Bestie

Not all relationships will turn into a thriving business bestie partnership. Here’s what to look for:

Shared Values and Ambitions:  Seek someone who takes their business as seriously as you do. Whether it’s marketing, content creation, or scaling, your priorities should align.

Complementary Strengths: Find someone whose skills and strengths balance yours. For example, if you excel at strategy but struggle with execution, a business bestie who thrives on implementation could be ideal.

Commitment and Energy: Look for a person who is reliable and excited to connect regularly. Consistency is key in building a relationship that fosters growth.

Where to Find Your Business Bestie

1. Online Communities and Coaching Programs
Facebook groups, masterminds, and online coaching programs are rich with like-minded entrepreneurs. If someone’s comments or energy resonates with you during a live session, reach out to schedule a chat.

2. Networking Events and Conferences
Both virtual and in-person events offer valuable opportunities to connect. Don’t hesitate to strike up a conversation with someone who seems interesting or relatable.

3. Platforms for Networking
Tools like Lunchclub make it easy to schedule one-on-one networking calls with other professionals. These platforms help you practice your pitch while discovering potential connections.

4. Social Media
Instagram, LinkedIn, and even YouTube can be great platforms for finding people in your industry. Don’t shy away from sliding into someone’s DMs to start a genuine conversation.

Tips for Building a Strong Business Bestie Relationship

1. Start with a Casual Chat
Don’t jump straight into asking someone to be your business bestie. Instead, schedule a casual 20-minute coffee chat to get to know them and their business.

2. Be Yourself
Authenticity is essential. Let your personality shine so you attract someone who truly resonates with you.

3. Set Boundaries and Expectations
Discuss how often you’ll connect and what the focus of your relationship will be. Whether it’s weekly brainstorming sessions or monthly check-ins, clarity avoids misalignment.

4. Diversify Your Network
It’s okay to have multiple connections. Some people may serve as accountability partners, while others might be sources of inspiration or support.

5. Don’t Be Afraid to Move On
If a relationship becomes unproductive or draining, it’s okay to step back. Politely communicate changes in your schedule and shift your focus to other connections.

Real-Life Examples of Biz Bestie Dynamics

1. Peer-to-Peer Support

Jen and Cinthia, co-hosts of the Marketing Duo Podcast, built their business bestie relationship by connecting over shared values in marketing and content creation. They meet regularly to exchange ideas, troubleshoot challenges, and keep each other inspired.

2. Mentorship-Inspired Connections

You don’t need an official mentor to learn from someone. Many entrepreneurs connect with people they admire for informal lunches or occasional chats, gaining valuable insights without committing to a formal structure.

The Benefits of a Business Bestie

Having a business bestie transforms your entrepreneurial journey. They:

  • Help normalize challenges (e.g., unsuccessful launches happen to everyone!).
  • Offer fresh ideas and perspectives.
  • Provide accountability that feels empowering, not forced.
  • Inspire and energize you with their passion and work ethic.

Your Next Step

Now that you understand the importance of a business bestie, it’s time to find yours. Start by reaching out to someone in your network or scheduling a virtual chat with someone new. Remember, the goal isn’t just to find a peer—it’s to build a meaningful relationship that helps both of you grow.

Have tips or success stories about finding your business bestie? Share them in the comments below or connect with us on Instagram. Let’s inspire each other to thrive!

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