People topics
Let's talk about stress
We know this can be a topic. Let's get this conversation going.
Startup life comes with pressure. The pace is fast, the stakes are real, and things can get chaotic. This page is about recognizing stress early and doing something about it -- for yourself and for your teammates. See also our Paid Time Off and Remote Workstation pages for practical ways to protect your wellbeing.
The reality
Intempt is a profitable, self-funded company -- but that doesn't mean the work is easy. Your pay comes from customers who depend on the product every day. There is real accountability. We move fast, we ship often, and some weeks are harder than others.
What is stress
Stress is your fight-or-flight response. It's helpful for launches, shipping features, and giving presentations. But every burst of stress needs recovery time. Too much without recovery will drain you and lead to burnout.
Symptoms to watch for
- Hard to concentrate
- Easily irritated
- More emotional than usual
- Trouble sleeping
- Can't put things in perspective
- Low energy
- Don't enjoy things you normally enjoy
- Depressing thoughts
- Physical symptoms (headaches, tension, stomach issues)
- Trouble remembering things
- Compulsive behavior
What can I do
Check yourself
Be honest about where you are right now.
- I'm good -- keep doing what you're doing. Stay aware.
- I'm okay-ish -- something is off. Map out what's causing it. Talk to someone you trust. Make small adjustments before it gets worse.
- I'm not good -- talk to your manager or HR today. Not tomorrow. Reach out to a professional if you need to. There's no shame in it.
Be aware
Map your private life stressors and your Intempt life stressors separately. Sometimes the problem isn't work -- it's everything combined.
Make changes
- Work-life balance -- set boundaries that protect your time
- Take freedom and responsibility -- you have flexibility, use it
- Find your right rhythm -- not everyone works best 9-5
- Be flexible with yourself -- some days are just harder
- Take care of your body and mind -- exercise, sleep, eat well
- Set priorities -- you and your family first, then Intempt
- Check your work, your job, your role -- if the fit is wrong, let's talk about it
What Intempt does about it
- Voice the vision clearly so people know where we're headed
- Open channels for transparency
- Build a low-stress environment where possible
- Keep jobs fun and meaningful
- Educate everyone on stress and mental health
- Give feedback and praise often
- Create awareness across the team
- Look out for each other