wait is that the trans flag color scheme??

How do you Carmel Macchiato?

Most entrepreneurs preach authenticity online. But let’s be honest: • They’re only authentic after they’ve succeeded. • They don’t tell you about their $100K losses when it happens. • They wait until they’re making $15K a month to finally “open up.” I believe that’s the real inauthenticity. So I'm going to change that. Here’s my story—no fluff, no hiding, no spin. (if you believe me. You will after) In 2022, I opened a music school in Sydney. It was my first entrepreneurial venture, and I had high hopes. Fast forward to January 2025: • My savings account? $2,300. • My micro-investing account? $1,800. • My business account? $800. Technically, I made a profit over the past three years. But in reality? Every dollar of that “profit” went toward bills, expenses, and keeping the doors open. $800 in the positive doesn’t boost your morale. It doesn’t quiet the 2 AM doubts or the weight in your chest that never leaves. But here’s the truth nobody talks about: Building a business can crush your mental health. Before I opened the school, I already battled depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Since opening it? I’ve woken up every day feeling the weight of: • Managing a team • Trying to keep 75+ clients happy • Wondering if I can make it through another week Even on vacations—Japan, Hong Kong, public holidays—I couldn’t escape the business. My mind was stuck in a loop of stress, fear, and exhaustion. Most people won’t share this side of the story. Because it’s not sexy. It doesn’t sell courses or build a following. But this is my reality. So here's my takeaway for you: Success isn’t just about what you build. It’s about how you build it. If you sacrifice your mental health, your relationships, and your happiness along the way— Even $15K months won’t make you feel whole. The lesson? Work hard, but don’t lose yourself in the process. Because authenticity isn’t just sharing your wins. It’s being honest about your struggles while you’re still in the trenches. P.S. If you’ve ever felt this way, you’re not alone. My newsletter, The Mental Musician, is a space for creators, musicians, and entrepreneurs to talk about: • The mental health battles behind the hustle. • The struggles nobody shares until they’re “on top.” • How to build a career and take care of yourself. Join the conversation here with 300+ other creators: https://thementalmusician.beehiiv.com

Her smile #하니 #Hanni #ハニ

So cute

What should I eat for lunch?

🤪