Journaling key to emotional regulation for entrepreneurs

Writing in a journal can help entrepreneurs regulate their emotions amid the pressures of running a business, according to Belle de Jour (BDJ), a locally known lifestyle and planner brand.

Darlyn Ty-Nilo, founder of BDJ, told BusinessWorld the importance of proper emotional regulation, noting that it significantly impacts a person’s productivity, particularly for entrepreneurs.

“Because of all these things, as an entrepreneur running a business, you need self-clarity. If you yourself are confused, how can you expect to lead others?,” Darlyn Ty-Nilo, founder of BDJ, said in an interview in both mixed English and Filipino during the brand’s 20th anniversary on Wednesday.

“So that’s what you go through when you’re trying to do journaling for your emotions—journaling for clarity of your emotions,” Ms. Nilo said.

She added that journals can also help organize the mind, making it easier to plan and manage tasks effectively.

According to research from the University of Dayton in the US, entrepreneurs are exposed to higher levels of stress compared to other workers, which can negatively impact their health.

The study also emphasizes that managing stress is essential not only for entrepreneurs’ well-being but also for the success and performance of their businesses.

Meanwhile, a separate survey conducted by Endeavor among 118 tech founders found that 75% of entrepreneurs feel pressure from others’ expectations, while 54% said discussing mental health is considered taboo in the ecosystem.

The report also cited a US study showing that 72% of entrepreneurs experience mental health concerns.

Grounded in the pressures she experienced in business, particularly during the pandemic, Ms. Nilo said this was the reason she also launched the Life Business Workshop to help women entrepreneurs stay inspired and focused on their business journeys.

As part of the brand’s 20th anniversary celebration, BDJ also announced that the 2026 20th Edition Planner and the Manifest Bag collection are now available for pre-order until October 20. — Edg Adrian A. Eva