How Solopreneurs Conquer Loneliness at the Top
Solopreneurship offers a bounty of opportunities: you get to do things your way, including how, where, and when you work. And perhaps most importantly, you’re earning the salary you’re worth instead of letting someone else choose your value.
But for all the benefits that solopreneurship brings, it also has a few drawbacks, most notably in feelings of isolation and loneliness. You no longer have the advantage of having a sounding board within arm’s reach or a friendly distraction when work becomes too much to focus on.
You might be on your way to the top, but it’s often a lonely journey. Here are some ways to combat the effects of isolation as a solopreneur so you can fulfill your life’s mission.
Take Care of Yourself
When you’re feeling isolated, “me” time might seem like the last thing you need. But it’s important to take care of yourself as a solopreneur because of the unique challenges you experience that only other solopreneurs can relate to. You’re now faced with an uncertain income and have to figure out all the moving parts of your business for yourself.
It’s too easy to get bogged down with the stresses of running a business. When your mental health is in distress, it’s harder to show up every day to be the person your business needs to make it thrive.
Take time for yourself so that you can feel energized, hopeful, and confident in your abilities.
Find a Mentor
If you’re the type of person who likes to test ideas or get expert advice, then a mentor can help you go farther than you could go alone. Mentors are great listeners, but they should also be able to lend their expertise in your field and potentially help you avoid making costly or irrational mistakes.
Attend Conferences and Networking Events
There’s an old saying in business: it’s not what you know, it’s who you know.
More heads are better than one, and solopreneurs may find they can grow faster, better, and stronger with a good network on their side. Conferences and events are the best ways to meet people in your field or in industries you’re trying to serve. Potential clients can put your name and face together and know you’re an expert at what you do.
Look up local business networking events in your area or national conferences in your niche that can provide professional development opportunities.
Consider Coworking
One of the benefits of coworking is that it brings a group of professionals and solopreneurs to work under a single roof. You’re still able to run your business autonomously, but you have the added professionalism and networking opportunities that an office environment provides.
Even better, many coworking spaces host networking events that let you mix and mingle with others in the space. This is an easy way to grow your network, plus you may end up picking up some new clients.
Find the Office Evolution location nearest you and discover how coworking can help you defeat solopreneur isolation!