Where did all the optimism go? 

On June 5th, I sat in a room full of powerful women in Washington, D.C., and we discussed the findings of the 2023 Small Business Owner Report from the Bank of America. As the president of the Phoenix Chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners, I couldn’t help but reflect on the optimism gap that exists between women business owners and their male counterparts. 

Despite the remarkable achievements of women entrepreneurs in the dynamic landscape of Phoenix, it is disheartening to see this disparity. 

Phoenix boasts a supportive business environment that provides fertile ground for women to flourish. The state’s favorable policies promote small business growth and innovation. We have resources that enable women entrepreneurs to navigate the business landscape with greater ease. However, despite the encouraging backdrop, women in Arizona still face challenges that contribute to the optimism gap. Why? 

I wanted to take a deeper dive and explore the reasons behind this gap, but I kept arriving at one answer: WE ARE EXHAUSTED. It’s hard to be optimistic when suffering extreme exhaustion. 

Let’s face it: The post pandemic era took a toll on women in business. Women, particularly those who balance caregiving responsibilities, have experienced increased exhaustion due to the added responsibilities and demands placed upon them. 

As women entrepreneurs, we often find ourselves juggling multiple roles. The pandemic has further intensified these pressures, with women bearing the brunt of caregiving responsibilities, homeschooling and managing the household while also running their businesses. I believe that these relentless demands on our time, energy and emotional well-being are the culprits responsible for significantly impacting our optimism. 

I wanted to offer TWO strategies for empowerment and well-being: 

Prioritize self-care: As women entrepreneurs, we often prioritize the needs of others and neglect our own well-being. However, self-care is crucial for replenishing our energy reserves and fostering a renewed sense of optimism. It’s time to practice what we preach. Let’s commit to taking care of ourselves by setting boundaries, delegating tasks and carving out time for personal rejuvenation. Remember, self-care is not selfish; it’s an essential investment in our overall well-being and the success of our businesses.

Find support networks: NAWBO Phoenix understands the value of supportive communities and networks in combating exhaustion and nurturing optimism. Come to one of our upcoming events and see firsthand how — by being in a space where women connect, share experiences and offer support — we create a network of like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. 

Remember, optimism is not just wishful thinking; it is a mindset that can be cultivated through intentional action and persistent practice. Our results in life are the conversations that we rehearse in our heads. Come share your thoughts and connect to this powerful group at our upcoming event! 

Ania Kubicki served as president of NAWBO Phoenix from July 2022 to July 2023. She is the founder and CEO of ANGLES Communications, a Phoenix-based public relations agency. As one of the founders of the Love Tower, she is changing the world for the better by building a monument dedicated to love.