Entrepreneurs share their favourite hobbies to avoid burnout
From David Solomon to Elon Musk
In 2024, 77% of workers reported feeling burned out, and the pressure to perform can feel overwhelming. With everyday stress cited as one of the leading causes of burnout, it is clear that workers across industries are searching for effective ways to manage their well-being.
According to Linkee experts, several activities popular among successful entrepreneurs can provide valuable strategies for combating burnout, improving mental clarity, and increasing overall happiness, regardless of career path.
Play Music: A Natural Stress Reliever
Among the top recommendations from entrepreneurs is playing music. Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can lead to insomnia, weaken the immune system, and contribute to mental fog. By playing music, individuals can trigger the release of dopamine—a neurotransmitter that promotes relaxation and emotional well-being.
David Solomon, CEO of Goldman Sachs, is a prime example of this approach. He uses music to prevent burnout and maintain a sense of grounding in his high-pressure role. Music provides an effective, natural way to reduce stress, ultimately helping to improve productivity and focus.
Try Racing or High-Adrenaline Sports for Mental Clarity
Entrepreneurs also advise incorporating high-adrenaline activities like racing into one’s routine. These activities demand complete focus and offer a much-needed break from the mental exhaustion of day-to-day work. Engaging in high-stress sports can improve mental clarity by forcing the brain to concentrate solely on the task.
This mental reset allows individuals to return to work with a sharper mind and renewed strategic thinking. Whether racing or another high-intensity sport, these activities are praised for recalibrating focus and enhancing decision-making skills.
Play Video Games: Relax, Recharge, and Find Flow
Playing video games is an unexpected yet highly recommended stress-busting activity for many entrepreneurs. Video games can help lower stress levels by reducing vasopressin—a hormone responsible for regulating emotional stability and focus. Elon Musk, the renowned entrepreneur, strongly advocates gaming to combat burnout.
Musk often immerses himself in virtual reality to relax and recharge. He famously remarked, “Killing the demons in a video game calms the demons in my mind.” This form of escapism allows him to disconnect from work, restore mental energy, and foster creativity and problem-solving skills.
Play Tennis (or Any Sport): Recharge Through Physical Activity
Engaging in sports is another popular recommendation among successful entrepreneurs. Whether tennis, running, or swimming, regular participation in physical activities can help alleviate mental exhaustion. Tennis, for example, offers physical and cognitive benefits, requiring strategic thinking and physical coordination.
Entrepreneurs suggest that playing basketball or other sports is a powerful way to recharge the mind and body. This enables individuals to return to work with increased productivity and a fresh perspective.
Vahan Poghosyan’s Insights
Vahan Poghosyan, CEO of Linkee, emphasises that entrepreneurship is a delicate balance between vision and exhaustion. He explains, “In a world that constantly pushes for more, the real power comes from knowing when to pause, reset, and protect what drives you. It’s not about doing less—it’s about being intentional.
“Setting boundaries, prioritising rest, and preserving energy isn’t just about avoiding burnout. It’s about making space for the creativity and drive that inspired you to start in the first place.”
By adopting these strategies, anyone in a high-pressure entrepreneurial role or a demanding corporate position can combat burnout, regain mental clarity, and improve overall well-being.
Image: Chronic stress increases cortisol levels, which can lead to insomnia, weaken the immune system, and contribute to mental fog. Credit: Anna Tarazevich
