Latest news with #ForbesBusinessCouncil
Forbes
5 days ago
- Business
- Forbes
20 Tools To Stay Organized And Prevent Leadership Burnout
getty Business leaders today bear a rewarding but heavy burden. As the business landscape has grown progressively more unpredictable in recent years, the stress and pressure that come with running a successful business have also increased. While stress has always been part of the role, these growing challenges are not only resulting in disorganization, but also significant leadership burnout. To help, 20 Forbes Business Council members each share one tool or habit they recommend leaders adopt to stay organized and prevent burnout as a leader. I use a simple weekly priorities list. Each Monday, I write down the three to five things that matter most. Doing this helps me cut through the noise, stay focused on impact and avoid the burnout that comes with chasing every fire. I'd recommend it to any leader, as it's low-tech, provides a high level of clarity and keeps you anchored to what really matters. - Stephen Sokoler, Journey I rely on Notion to stay organized and avoid burnout. It helps me centralize tasks, goals and reflections in one space. I use Notion to journal weekly wins, delegate effectively and track priorities. It brings clarity and control, which are both essential for any leader navigating chaos. - Swami Kakarla, Signitives IT Solutions Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify? I use a notebook split into two. The left side is a journal for daily insights and reflections, while the right side holds my to-do list. This helps me turn observations into creative solutions. Creating a daily to-do list helps with stress because I believe stress comes from an inability to effectively manage your to-do list. - Soon Hagerty, The Good Bowl I use time-blocking in a digital calendar, dedicating strict slots for tasks, emails and breaks. This forces focus, reduces multitasking and protects personal time. It's simple, but it stops work from spilling into nights and weekends, which is a lifesaver for high-pressure roles. - Hannah Ma, Globevisa Group I've gotten pretty attached to Asana as a task list and to-do manager. It's very customizable, enabling prioritization, categorization and tracking. It's also possible to tag team members and get updates all in one place. It can do much more, but that simple view of what's due today, what's coming up and where a task stands helps manage my anxiety. - Rob Davis, NOVUS Each week, our entire team updates a two-week priority document that outlines what matters most across each person's core workstreams, sorted by client. It brings clarity, alignment and focus, helping us stay proactive instead of reactive. It also helps prevent burnout—not by doing less, but by making sure we're all spending time in coordinated and transparent ways. - Julia Rafal-Baer, ILO Group I rely on Jira to keep projects, priorities and team progress crystal clear. It breaks big goals into trackable tasks, which helps me stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed. When everything's visible and assigned, it's easier to focus, delegate smartly and keep burnout at bay. - Sabeer Nelliparamban, Tyler Petroleum Inc. I make voice memos for myself. Throughout the day, I capture raw thoughts, reflections or ideas without filtering them. Then, I review and sort them at night. It's like having a conversation with my future self. It keeps my mind decluttered and helps me catch burnout before it sneaks in. Try it—it's clarity on demand. - Arpit Jain, SEO Sets I use Fellow to stay organized and avoid burnout, as it keeps all my meetings, notes and follow-ups in one place. It helps me lead with clarity and focus, and I'd recommend it to any leader looking to stay on top of things without feeling overwhelmed. - Eran Mizrahi, Source86 I keep a physical whiteboard visible from my desk, but it's not for tasks. I use it to map priorities by impact and energy cost, and it grounds me when digital tools become noisy. Seeing the big picture in my own handwriting adds clarity and reduces cognitive clutter. I recommend it because, sometimes, the best way to manage complexity is to step away from the screen. - Antony Goddard, OKKAMI I use Freedom to block apps that hijack my focus. It creates an intentional space to think, build and lead without dopamine traps. The ability to not be available is a leadership advantage most ignore. If you protect your attention, you protect your energy. I recommend it to other leaders because protecting your attention is the fastest way to protect your sanity today. - Sahil Gandhi, Blushush I schedule regular walk-and-talks with my key team members. It's one of the most effective habits I've built as a leader. These informal conversations create space for honest dialogue, build trust and help me stay connected to what's really happening on the ground. Plus, stepping away from a desk often brings fresh perspective and better ideas. - Kent Ingle, Southeastern University I honestly rely on my on-demand TV apps. I love getting hooked on a great show and having something to look forward to that is not related to work and family. The apps force discipline in my work and naturally make me set aside time for fun. - Arar Han, Sabot Family Companies Personal well-being, including both physical and mental health, is vital to enduring the pruning process of entrepreneurship. I utilize MyFitnessPal to track my eating and walking metrics throughout overlapping high-stress weeks. I am able to look at what foods were lacking or sustaining through those days. Focusing on my health has readied me for those challenging moments. Health is wealth and worth caring for. - Paul L. Gunn, Jr., KUOG Corporation My Peloton is nonnegotiable. It's not just a workout—it's how I clear my head, sharpen my focus and get ahead of the day before it begins. Leadership demands clarity under pressure, and my bike gives me that. Before I touch my calendar, I break a sweat. It's discipline, therapy and strategy all rolled into one. - Jeffrey Herzog, Avenue Z I use a personal red flag tracker to catch the early signs of burnout, such as skipping workouts or checking Slack nonstop. These small changes in habit signal that I'm off-balance, so I reset fast when a few stack up. As a leader, you can't always slow down, so spotting the drift early keeps you sharp and prevents bigger issues. - Zain Jaffer, Zain Ventures Running offers a powerful way to prevent burnout through both physical and mental rejuvenation. Regular running creates critical mental space by disconnecting you from digital distractions, allowing your mind to process challenges subconsciously. The meditative quality of running promotes mindfulness as you focus on breathing and movement, sparking creative solutions. - Jay Mehta, Seldon Capital In my experience leading cross-functional teams, using AI for meeting notes and task scheduling has been a major help. It frees up mental space, keeps priorities clear and prevents overwhelm. I recommend it to any leader who wants to stay focused on strategy instead of getting lost in day-to-day work. - Andrew Lopez, 1000 Media The Superhuman email client has completely changed the way I approach email. It sorts through the clutter better than any other client I've used before, getting me to inbox zero in record time. I also love that the founder pushes weekly updates to the product, so it's constantly getting better. - Larry Bomback, Strategic Nonprofit Finance I track sleep, not tasks. After nearly derailing during a major deal after weeks of nights with four hours of sleep, I realized my to-do lists were pointless if my brain was running on fumes. My sleep app is now my most crucial dashboard. When my sleep debt rises, I delegate or reschedule. I'm a better leader and developer of talent since prioritizing recovery over productivity. - Shayne Fitz-Coy, Sabot Family Companies
Yahoo
6 days ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Steve Noriega Joins Exclusive Forbes Business Council
WILMINGTON, NC / / June 2, 2025 / Steve Noriega, Founder and CEO of Epic Brand, has officially joined the Forbes Business Council, an exclusive, invitation-only community for top entrepreneurs and business executives. The recognition highlights Noriega's outstanding accomplishments and positions him among the world's most influential business leaders. Photo Courtesy: Steve Noriega Noriega's acceptance into this prestigious organization comes as a result of his proven business acumen, leadership in the branding and marketing industry, and his commitment to making a meaningful impact. Membership is granted only to individuals who have demonstrated exceptional success in their respective fields, making Noriega's selection a significant honor. The Forbes Business Council provides members with invaluable opportunities for growth, networking, and knowledge sharing. As a member, Noriega will have access to a vast network of entrepreneurs and thought leaders, creating a platform to foster collaboration and innovative ideas. He will also be able to contribute articles with original insights on and participate in Expert Panels, where he will share his expertise alongside other industry leaders. The Council's mission is to offer entrepreneurs an exclusive space where they can exchange knowledge, strategies, and solutions that will help them grow both personally and professionally. "I'm thrilled to be a part of such an esteemed community of business leaders," said Noriega. "Joining the Forbes Business Council is not only a personal honor but an opportunity to connect with like-minded professionals who share a passion for innovation and leadership. It's a platform that will allow me to learn, contribute, and continue to grow as both a leader and an entrepreneur." The benefits of being a member of the Forbes Business Council extend beyond networking opportunities. Members receive access to cutting-edge industry insights, specialized marketing and branding resources, and concierge services. One of the key advantages is the EXEC program, which offers exclusive luxury business, travel, and lifestyle benefits. For Noriega, these resources will play a crucial role in his continued efforts to expand Epic Brand and make a lasting impact in the industry. Noriega's acceptance into the Forbes Business Council builds on his already impressive career achievements. In 2024, he was named to Top 100 Magazine's Top 40 Under 40, recognizing his innovation and leadership within the branding and marketing space. His entrepreneurial journey with Epic Brand has been marked by both commercial success and a strong commitment to giving back to the community. Through the company's philanthropic initiatives, Noriega ensures that a portion of the company's profits go toward charitable causes, further demonstrating his belief that business should be a force for good. Under Noriega's leadership, Epic Brand has established itself as a premier branding and marketing agency. The company specializes in creating purpose-driven, digitally native brands that resonate with today's values-driven consumers. Epic Brand's focus on ethical practices and community engagement sets it apart in an increasingly competitive industry. Noriega has made it clear that his goals for Epic Brand go beyond financial success; he is committed to using his platform to make a tangible difference in the world. In the coming years, Noriega plans to expand the company's charitable efforts, further solidifying his commitment to his faith-based philanthropy while continuing to drive business growth. The Forbes Business Council is a global collective of exceptional business owners and leaders, brought together by their shared commitment to excellence. The council offers its members access to valuable resources, connections, and opportunities that are designed to help them grow their businesses and expand their professional influence. Noriega's addition to this community is a testament to the strides he has made as an entrepreneur and the positive impact he has had on the branding and marketing industry. His work with Epic Brand continues to inspire others in the business world, and his membership in the Forbes Business Council opens the door to even greater opportunities for collaboration and growth. About Forbes Councils Forbes Councils is an exclusive community of invitation-only groups created in partnership with Forbes and the founders of the Young Entrepreneur Council (YEC). Forbes Councils offers its members a powerful platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and accessing invaluable business insights. Members of the Council have access to resources that help them continue to grow and succeed, with opportunities to contribute to thought leadership and expert panels across various industries. To learn more about Forbes Councils, visit Media Contact Country: United StatesMedia Contact: Steve NoriegaCompany Name: Epic BrandEmail: steve@ (302) 265-0380Website: SOURCE: Epic Brand View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Forbes
29-05-2025
- Business
- Forbes
Starting A Business? 20 Steps To Catapult Success
getty Starting and running a successful business is rarely as easy as it looks. While success stories have become more common with the rise of social media and technology, failure and challenging moments are just as prevalent in the entrepreneurial journey. As experts, the members of Forbes Business Council know the effort that goes into running a business. Below, 20 of them offer first steps for entrepreneurs seeking to start a successful business, as well as how and why those steps impact success. Start by defining what success means to you. Whether it's impact, income or innovation, having clarity on your personal goal shapes every decision that follows. Without it, you risk building something that looks like success to others but feels empty to you. - Jon Osterburg , Jitasa The first step is to clearly define your purpose and identify a real problem you're passionate about solving. This will give your business meaning, direction and a reason to exist. When your mission aligns with market demand, it becomes easier to attract customers, build a strong brand and stay motivated through challenges. - Stephen Nalley , Black Briar Advisors Forbes Business Council is the foremost growth and networking organization for business owners and leaders. Do I qualify? I recommend entrepreneurs begin with the end in mind. What are you trying to create, and for what endgame? Is it to sell, or to pass the business on to your kids? Designing a business from the ground up with the exit strategy in mind adds incredible value and clarity in decision making. You are far more likely to reach your ultimate goal if you focus on it from day one. - Craig West , Capitaliz 4. Assess Feasibility It would be good to have a mindset of starting an innovative business, which should help an entrepreneur stand out from the rest. Assessing feasibility is essential to understanding the projected profit and loss and cash flow situation for the next five years, as it helps ensure that the business can sustain itself and generate enough profit for further expansion. Recruit staff with passion, positivity and a desire to succeed holistically. - Ramesh Arora , SIGNATURE HOSPITALLITY GROUP 5. Validate Your Idea With Real Customers The first step in building a successful business is validating your idea with real customers. Before you invest time or resources, have honest conversations to understand their needs, pain points and willingness to pay. Success comes from solving real problems—and that clarity only comes from deep listening, not assumptions. - Arunabh Dastidar , Leni 6. Prioritize The 'Why' Start by asking whether you are passionate and can truly help the customer. Too many entrepreneurs focus on the exit before proving value. If you build from purpose and solve a real problem, everything else, from the product to the team and funding, will follow. The right foundation isn't strategy; it's service. - Jamil Bouchareb , Restaurantware 7. Assess The Market Assessing the market has to be the first and most fundamental step. If there's no sufficient market need for the product or service, or you can't create that demand, then the business does not have a solid foundation to start. This includes assessing how the market will develop, in particular with changing technology and demand. - Paul Williams , La Vida Europe Ltd 8. Map Out What You Want From The Business I always suggest mapping out what you want to get out of the business, both personally and professionally. Beyond making a profit, entrepreneurs must ask themselves what they must or must not have from this business. For example, when I started my business 16 years ago, one of my 'must haves' was spending time with my sons. The definition of that has evolved over time, but it has remained a constant and kept me happy at work and at home. - Gary Romano , Civitas Strategies 9. Find A Partner The first step to ensuring you will have a successful business is making sure you have an implementor in place. Most people who are starting a business are the visionary or the idea person. You need to have someone at your side to help you implement your vision so you can focus on big-picture items like problem-solving, growth and innovation. - Melissa Johnson , E3 Coaching LLC 10. Know Your Target Audience Start by getting radically clear on who you serve and why. Without a deep understanding of your audience's pain points and desires, your message won't connect and your offer won't convert. Clarity is the foundation, as everything successful is built from there. - Shay Levister , Shay Better Coaching LLC 11. Build A Strong Data Team Start by building a strong data team. Solid data lets you make clear, confident decisions from day one. It also helps you understand your customers, spot trends early and adjust fast. If you want to grow smart and stay ahead, let data lead the way. - Trey Ferro , Spot Pet Insurance 12. Develop A Marketing Strategy Get really good at creating content and being the face of your brand. The most successful businesses I've seen are led by founders who confidently show up on camera. When you share your story with authenticity, you build trust, and trust builds traction. Content is the bridge between your brand and your audience, and you're the one who makes it real. - Kelly Rocklein , UGC Pro 13. Choose The Right Name Finding a business name that is not already being used is one of the hardest things to do right now when starting a new business. It seems like everything has already been taken, but if you get creative, you can still find an amazing name that can help build your brand. - Tonia Ryan , Techvoya 14. Build Awareness Of The Business Building awareness is the first step in marketing. Before someone becomes a consumer, they are a watcher seeking signs of trust, reliability and consistency. Because they will pay close attention to how you show up, your goal is to make sure your brand is what comes to mind when they're ready to buy a specific product or service. - Sharmylla Siew , Cobalt Funding Solutions 15. Prioritize The Primary Problem Focus on the problem you're solving. It's easy to get caught up in the idea of the business itself, but true success comes from understanding the real needs of the market and how your solution fits into it. Once you know the problem, build a product or service that genuinely addresses it. Get feedback early, iterate quickly and remain adaptable. - Umair Javed , tkxel 16. Figure Out Distribution Before building the product, figure out how you'll get it in front of people. We thought deeply about distribution before anything else. You can have the best solution in the world, but if you can't reach the right audience, it won't matter. Start by asking how you will sell this. Then, build backwards. - Aleksandr Zemel , NYWD 17. Practice Strategic Silence The first step I recommend for starting a successful business is practicing strategic silence to gain clarity. Silence is not a luxury in a world constantly pulling at our attention—it's a leadership tool. Before drafting a business plan or raising capital, take time for stillness and intentional reflection to tap into the voice of purpose. Before you launch outward, lead inward. - Jacqueline Grice , J Diamond Inc . 18. Get Your Family's Blessing Check in with your partner. I invest in pre-seed and inception-stage founders, and you'd be shocked at the number of companies that fold at the finish line of a fundraiser because one of the co-founders forgot to ask their spouse if they could start a company. Entrepreneurship is a whole family commitment, so get their buy-in first! - Kevin Novak , Rackhouse Venture Capital 19. Ensure You're Ready For The Responsibility Running a business is stressful. Before anything else, you need to be brutally honest with yourself regarding whether you are ready for that pressure. It's not just about having ideas that you want to realize, but about having the ability to make fast decisions, handle unpredictability and keep going, even in challenging circumstances. - Valentina Drofa , Drofa Comms 20. Take That First Step Take the first step. Not the perfect one, not the final one—the first. Do so with bravery, boisterousness and a belief that it's all part of the fun. Action breeds clarity, and momentum beats perfection. Businesses don't start with certainty; they start with movement. - Paul Boross MBE , Big Sky
