Scaling Smarter: How to Build a Life-Focused Business Without Burning Out with Courtney Terrant

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

• Website
• Instagram 
• Facebook 
• LinkedIn