Loss, Grief & Entrepreneurship: 7 Things to Consider When Grieving as a Business Owner

Recently, I had the honor of being interviewed by Ms. Sharvette Mitchell on The Sharvette Mitchell Radio Show for Episode #766. We explored an often-overlooked topic: what it means to navigate loss and grief while also managing the responsibilities of entrepreneurship.

Whether you’re a solopreneur, a small business owner, or leading a team, loss doesn’t pause the deadlines. Yet, it changes everything. In our conversation, we discussed how grief affects not only your heart, but also your business, decision-making, and capacity.

🎧 You can listen to the full interview here:Loss, Grief & Entrepreneurship with Lynn Lewis

In this blog, I’m sharing seven considerations for entrepreneurs navigating grief—some of which were discussed in the interview. These reflections are drawn from both my lived experience and from those I’ve walked with as a Certified Grief Coach.

Understanding Loss and Grief

Before diving into the list, let’s clarify what we mean by loss and grief:

• Loss is the experience of being deprived of someone or something you deeply valued. It can be a loved one, a role, a lifestyle, or even a dream.

• Grief is the natural, normal, and necessary emotional response to that loss. It can’t be rushed or reasoned away—it must be honored and felt.

  
  

7 Considerations for the Grieving Entrepreneur

1. Be Proactive

Grief can feel unpredictable, but creating systems and support structures can help you stay grounded. Plan ahead for emotionally significant dates, delegate tasks, and allow space in your schedule. Being proactive isn’t about control—it’s about care.

2. Communicate with Compassion

Silence can lead to misunderstanding. Communicate your needs clearly—to clients, team members, and most importantly, to yourself. Whether you need time, support, or space, speaking up fosters trust and understanding.

3. Network with Intentionality

Every room won’t feel safe—and that’s okay. Choose spaces and communities that honor your grief, value your presence, and support your healing. Meaningful connections can help you feel seen and supported on both a personal and professional level.

4. Practice Self-Love Unapologetically

Grief demands energy. Rest. Reflect. Refill your emotional tank. Say no without guilt. Take the walk, journal your thoughts, sit quietly with tea—do what restores you. Your business benefits when you are whole and cared for.

5. Reflect and Adjust

Your goals may shift. What once felt urgent might no longer feel aligned. Allow yourself the freedom to reevaluate. Adjust your offers, hours, or processes. Grief will change you—honor that evolution rather than resist it.

6. Give Yourself Grace

You might miss a meeting. You might need a pause. Grace is what allows the human behind the business to continue showing up with dignity. Offer yourself the same compassion you extend to others.

7. Embrace the Pivot

Loss often leads us to transformation. Your purpose may expand, your methods may shift, your message may deepen. Don’t fear the pivot. Your next chapter could carry even greater meaning—because of the journey you’ve survived.

In Closing

Entrepreneurship while grieving is not easy, but it is possible—with support, self-awareness, and intentional choices. You don’t have to hide your grief to be effective. You don’t have to "bounce back" to still move forward.

You are not alone.

If you’re navigating grief and would like compassionate, non-clinical, non-judgmental

support, I invite you to schedule a complimentary chat:

👉 www.calendly.com/destinedtothrive

With heart,

Lynn Lewis

Certified Grief Educator & Coach

Founder, Destined To Thrive Grief Coaching