BizSugar.com › Self-Development › Small-business owners hit with burnout blues

Michigan's economy, like many others, has become increasingly reliant on the business savvy of emerging entrepreneurs stressed by long hours and no guaranteed paycheck.

For an entrepreneur, developing comprehensive business skills while staying sane is no small trick.

Burnout is a major pitfall.

"As that [skill set] is being cultivated is when I begin to see burnout occur," said consultant Carol Crawford of The Alternative Board, a Colorado-based company that offers business owners peer support, private coaching and advice.

"You're not crazy, and you're not lazy. Sometimes it's just natural that it occurs," Crawford said.

Symptoms include changes in personality and behavior, she said. They are "not a lot different than classic depression."