Entrepreneurs with OCD
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder characterized by an irresistible and usually irrational compulsion to perform a ritual or repeated behavior. The symptoms are usually initiated by an obsession followed by a corresponding compulsion.
With the fast-paced and challenging socioeconomic scene in Hong Kong, mental health had become a recurring concern among the population.
Studies show that OCD symptoms usually develop during pre-adult years or earlier. Males display more severe and earlier development of the condition compared to their female counterparts.
1 out of 100 children show signs of the disorder. The figure doubles for the older population with a rough 2 in every 100 adults.
While identified as a disorder, some OCD behaviors provide an edge in driving a business to success. Several individual characteristics of people with OCD overlaps with the traits of a great entrepreneur.
Possible Advantages of Entrepreneurs with OCD
Relentless Drive
People with OCD can be very persistent in achieving their goals. They are motivated individuals with the drive to keep going despite setbacks.
Entrepreneurship is an endeavor packed with challenges and having the ability to bounce back from failures is one of the major characteristics of a great businessman.
Prudence
Being an anxiety disorder, people with OCD tend to worry more. As a result, they practice care and thought jumping into action.
As known hoarders of information, they will consider all the factors, causes, and potential risks of a decision before settling for the best option.
Attention to Detail
Obsessive compulsives are considered perfectionists in their own right. Their compulsions are built with established rules and they can be very specific in upholding those rules.
Attention to detail produces error-free results and is one indicator of work efficiency. This attentiveness is great for meeting deadlines, completing tasks, and quality control.
Crippling Symptoms
While less severe symptoms can bring benefits, they can also be life-impairing depending on the version and intensity of OCD. Harmful effects can be observed when compulsions get extreme and get in the way of your daily life.
One complication for people with OCD is that while they are driven to perform a task, these acts may not be realistically applicable to the situation at hand. This results in wasted time and a pile of unsolved problems.
Entrepreneurs are bound to make social interactions. Depending on the nature of the business, people relations can contribute greatly to its success. Some people might not understand the behavioral dynamics of people with OCD and can treat their actions as nuances. This doesn’t only affect the business but also the potential relationships.
Mental Health Support
The government sector has initiated programs for the population’s general mental health. Their services include general information dissemination and clinical psychological assessments.
Members of the private sector including the International OCD Foundation have established an OCD and anxiety support system in Hong Kong. Professional healthcare institutions like Everyday Empathy offer individual counselling services that specialize in a more personalized approach.
An entrepreneur’s mental health is crucial in sustaining a work-life balance. In the long run, a sound mind will be more important than satisfaction from economical wins. Practice awareness and do not hesitate to reach out when you feel overwhelmed.
