14/08/2026
ATTENTION FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS
It’s time to pause! Because, if you don’t face up to menopause - in particular perimenopause - and the possible impact your hormones could have upon your business, you will struggle, and your income will suffer too! And it’s never too early to do this!
Again, I’m not scaremongering! I just know the impact perimenopause had upon my physical and emotional health, and I’m not unique in my experience! I wasn’t running a business then but, if I had been, it would have been disastrous!
And 1 in 6 women are leaving the workplace because of the impact of changing hormone levels, and the lack of workplace support. But, as a self-employed entrepreneur, you can’t leave your business. You are your business! But you can support yourself!
If you’re prepared, and have knowledge, you can lessen the impact menopause has upon you, and therefore your business. Consider it part of your risk assessment, disaster planning, etc.
So what are we talking about then? When dramatic hormone fluctuations strike, women can experience a myriad of ‘symptoms’, although it’s a phase, not a disease.
Sleep is so crucial to running a business, but it one of the things that suffers during menopause as a result of hot flushes, anxiety, restless legs etc. Simple strategies, like not having caffeine after 4pm, or charging your phone outside your room, can make a huge difference.
Nutrition is also key. If you are surviving on coffee, croissants and convenience food, your body will rebel during menopause. You need to fuel your body with proper foods; plates rich in protein and vegetables but lower in carbohydrates. Reducing your sugar intake and alcohol consumption are recommended too.
A reduction in memory capacity can be detrimental to your business, as well as scary. Employ tools to help you remember things - a simple notebook or planner - rather than relying on your memory. HRT can be helpful too. But, if you forget something, don’t panic. You’re normal!
Be aware of the treatment options available too, whether that be prescribed or otherwise. Be patient with yourself; it can take time to find what works for you, every woman is different.
You may need to change where you work, or make adaptations. You could adjust your work hours, or at least change when you have important meetings eg first thing after a sleep disrupted night may not be ideal. You may need to set additional boundaries, adjust timescales, and say ‘No’ more often.
You may also choose to be honest with the people you work for; and with; reassuring them that you’re just as capable as before, but you’re facing some menopause-related challenges.
And finally, talk about it. Join a community of other women and share your experiences. This can be the best medicine! You are not alone!
To join the Scottish 'Pause Summit community, and discover more, comment PAUSE below.
