As a Founder/CEO, seeing your startup struggle can be a nerve racking experience.

It’s crucial to recognize that this is unchartered territory for most people in your situation and remember that you don’t have to face these challenges alone. The advice from this post by Jason Lemkin, to be present, honest, and realistic while remaining optimistic is sound, but it’s easier said than done. Here are some tips to help you through tough times:

Seek support: Get a coach, talk to a therapist, or reach out to friends and family. Reach out and talk to other CEOs. You’ll be surprised at how many of them are in the same boat as you. Beneath that facade of calmness and bravado is another human being just like you, scared and lonely, but fighting the good fight.

Prioritize self-care: Startup founders are often expected to perform superhuman feats, but don’t let that expectation dictate your response to situations that will break any human being. Make time for activities that help you recharge and maintain a healthy perspective.

Be transparent: Be honest with your team, investors, and stakeholders about the challenges you’re facing. Transparency builds trust and allows others to offer their support and expertise.

Learn to say no: Good times train you to say yes a lot. There is always one more thing someone wants and you take it upon yourself to do it. In difficult times, you have to focus all your energies on the few things that mater the most and prioritize actions that will have the greatest impact on your company’s success.

As a leader, taking care of yourself is not a luxury; it’s a necessity. Always remember to put your oxygen mask on first before helping others.