Perhaps you felt limited when you were working for someone else. Maybe you were tired of being micromanaged, underpaid, or overlooked for bigger projects and opportunities. Alternatively, you might have liked your job. But you had an exciting business idea that you finally had the chance to bring into reality.
Now, you’re proud of your accomplishments as an entrepreneur. Yet even though you’re passionate about your new path, you can’t help but feel a bit lonely. You might have hired a couple of employees. But they don’t share in all of your challenges as a business owner. You wish you had more people in your life who could relate to the ups and downs.
Here’s how to build community as an entrepreneur so you can overcome loneliness.
Find Community Spaces to Work
If you run your business online, consider getting some work done at coffeeshops, libraries, or even a coworking space. Budgeting for a membership to a coworking space can be worth the expense if you feel isolated as an entrepreneur, especially if it leads to business partnerships or mentorship from other members. Plus, coworking spaces often host networking events for members.
What if you run a brick-and-mortar business? Consider hosting events at your own space to get to know other business owners! You could also tackle administrative work at community spaces when feasible.
Join Organizations for People in Your Field
Chances are, there are organizations in your area that are specifically geared towards entrepreneurs in your field. Why not join one? Business organizations often host events where all members can mingle and chat, and they may even have mentorship programs where you can work with older, more experienced entrepreneurs for support.
Sometimes, it’s nice to simply spend time with people who understand exactly why you’re going through, especially if most of your friends are employed in corporate roles.
Connect with Fellow Entrepreneurs Online
Maybe you don’t have much time to get out and socialize while juggling all of your responsibilities, or perhaps you live in an area where there aren’t many business organizations or community spaces. If this is the case, consider connecting with other entrepreneurs online.
You can find private groups for entrepreneurs in your industry on social media, and some business owners host selective online groups for this very purpose.
Avoid the Temptation to Work Long Hours
Stopping work at a certain time of day can seem like it’s easier said than done if you’re running a business. But when you’re an entrepreneur, working long hours can be particularly isolating. You might end up skipping out on time with your friends and family because you’re so focused on your business.
Instead, consider if you can choose a specific time to stop each day. Use this to determine how many clients you can realistically take on. Carve out time each week to spend with your loved ones.
Take Advantage of Flexibility When Possible
As an entrepreneur, you might feel like it’s hard to step away from work. But since you do not have to work according to hours dictated by a boss, you likely have more flexibility than you had at a traditional job. This means that you can use this flexibility to your advantage and spend more time with your friends, family, and new connections in your field.
For instance, you might be able to meet your friends for lunch regularly, or work a four-day week so that you can travel to see family.
–
Entrepreneurship can be lonely, but working with a men’s or women’s therapist can help you discover new approaches to building connections. Contact us to schedule a free consultation or learn about our in-person and telehealth options.