Learned Helplessness and the effect on Entrepreneurs
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Learned Helplessness and the effect on Entrepreneurs
Overcoming limitations as entrepreneurs
As some of you already know, I am Nigerian and a new president has just been sworn in to the chagrin of a lot of those who voted for a different candidate. There has been so much wailing and frustrations being shared on Social Media and I have noticed a common theme - The feeling of helplessness. This is why I chose to write on this topic today, with a focus on entrepreneurs.
Learned Helplessness refers to a state where individuals believe they have no control over their circumstances, leading to a passive acceptance of negative situations. This is a psychological phenomenon and it can hinder entrepreneurs and their businesses.
In this article, I will attempt to delve into the concept of learned helplessness, explore its impact on entrepreneurs and businesses, and provide practical tips on how to overcome it. So, let's dive in!
Understanding Learned Helplessness
Learned helplessness is a term coined by psychologist Martin Seligman in the 1960s after conducting groundbreaking experiments with dogs. It describes a state of learned inaction, where individuals develop a belief that they are powerless to change or improve their circumstances, even when opportunities for change are present.
At its core, learned helplessness is a learned response to repeated negative experiences or perceived lack of control. When individuals face situations where their efforts consistently fail to produce desired outcomes, they start to believe that their actions are futile, leading to a sense of helplessness. This belief becomes ingrained, shaping their behaviour and limiting their potential.
In the case of entrepreneurs, learned helplessness can have significant implications for entrepreneurs and their businesses. Entrepreneurs may become hesitant to take risks or seize opportunities due to a fear of failure. They may also struggle with decision-making, constantly seeking external validation and becoming indecisive. This mindset can hinder innovation, growth, and overall success in the business realm.
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Back to my insight on learned helplessness….
The case of Sarah
Imagine Sarah (yes imagine), a passionate entrepreneur with big dreams of revolutionizing the fitness industry. She has plans to scale her fitness business targeting moms across Africa. However, Sarah has faced numerous setbacks and rejections throughout her entrepreneurial journey. She has encountered difficulties securing funding, convincing investors, and facing fierce competition. Over time, these experiences have taken a toll on Sarah's confidence and belief in her abilities.
Sarah has started to exhibit signs of learned helplessness. She no longer actively seeks new opportunities and is reluctant to take risks. She feels trapped in her circumstances and doubts her capacity to succeed. Sarah's business has plateaued, and she is struggling to find motivation and regain her entrepreneurial spirit. Sarah is now ok with just building a gym in her little town in Nairobi.
The Impact on Business
Learned helplessness can significantly impact business operations and growth. Entrepreneurs who fall victim to learned helplessness may avoid making decisions, fearing that their choices will only lead to failure. They may miss out on potential partnerships, innovative ideas, and lucrative opportunities because they believe they have no control over outcomes.
Even in organisations, learned helplessness can stifle creativity and innovation. When entrepreneurs and their teams feel powerless to effect change, they may resist exploring new ideas or taking calculated risks. This mindset can hinder adaptability and limit the business's ability to thrive in a dynamic and competitive market.
How to Overcome Learned Helplessness
While learned helplessness can be challenging to overcome, it is not a permanent state. Through awareness, mindset shifts, and intentional actions, individuals can unlearn learned helplessness and develop a more empowered outlook. Here are some practical tips for entrepreneurs to break free from the shackles of learned helplessness:
Cultivate a growth mindset
Embrace the belief that skills and abilities can be developed through dedication and effort. Adopting a growth mindset allows entrepreneurs to view challenges as opportunities for growth rather than insurmountable obstacles. Every growth, no matter how small, is still growth in the grand scheme of things.
Recognise when you’re feeling helpless and seeking support and mentorship
Entrepreneurs can benefit significantly from seeking support and guidance from mentors, peers, or business coaches. Surrounding oneself with positive influences and seeking feedback can help challenge limiting beliefs and inspire new perspectives.
Take small steps towards change
Rather than overwhelming oneself with monumental tasks, entrepreneurs can focus on taking small steps towards change. Breaking down goals into manageable milestones provides a sense of progress and accomplishment, gradually building confidence and momentum.
Focus on what you can control
The saying ‘make peppersoup with the pepper life gives you’ isn’t so cliche. Identify what is within your control and what resources you have at your disposal and creatively use them. There is no sense in crying and complaining over what you have no power over.
Don't let learned helplessness hold you back from achieving your goals! Remember that every successful entrepreneur has faced setbacks along the way. The key is to keep pushing forward and never give up.