“It’s lonely at the top.” If you’re in business or trying to get into the business arena, I’m sure this is something you hear a lot. Even top leaders cannot seem to fathom how lonely and misunderstood they will feel when they take that plunge to open their own business. It’s definitely something that is over glorified and not portrayed for what it really is, hard work.
I read this interesting article on Entrepreneur.com that sums up how one entrepreneur, Brian Bordainick, used his loneliness to fuel his desire and come back better than ever. He was able to build something that he probably wouldn’t have had the desire to push for if he had been complacent. From his passion, the Dinner Lab was created which is an amazing business concept aimed towards bringing others together through food and communication. This article shows that although entrepreneurship is definitely a lonely career choice, it doesn’t have to be. You can use your circumstances to pull yourself out of your slump just like Brian did.
Here are four tips on making great connections while working for the best boss you’ve ever had, YOURSELF!
1. Check Your Local Chamber of Commerce
Many people take their local Chamber of Commerce for granted. Aside from an array of information that they can provide about your local municipality, many provide leads groups that you can join at a very low cost. These groups usually meet once per week with the goal of building relationships and referring business to each other. Some entrepreneurs have reported as much as 40% of their business coming from leads groups.
2. Attend Networking Events
Check sites such as Eventbrite and Eventful for local business events and workshops that will give you an opportunity to network. A good portion of the time, these events are free to the public.
3. Meet up for Lunch
Join local online networking groups and build connections with local individuals. This is a good strategy for making connections and possibly finding collaboration opportunities. I’ve met many business partners this way.
Online networking can be fun, but always use caution if deciding to meet someone in person. I like to meet at a local coffee shop since it’s usually a crowded place.
4. Hire a Coach
Many entrepreneurs fail to see the benefit in hiring a coach until it’s too late. A coach is really like your own personal cheerleader and business success expert all rolled up into one. They can help you out of those business slumps and help push you and your business forward before things go bad. Coaches exist for entrepreneurs who need help getting unstuck. They usually have a plethora of resources and strategies at their disposal to help you build a sustainable business.
Entrepreneurship can feel like one of those things that no one seems to understand unless they’re in the thick of it every day. However, there are ways that you can lessen the feeling of loneliness and live a happy, company-filled life.
You can also use your circumstances to motivate you to do better and remain consistent. You’ll find individuals that you can connect with along the way. The journey only gets lonely if you let it.
Cheers to entrepreneurship!
About the Author
Bianca Pottinger is a self published author, public speaker, and small business mentor. She educates aspiring entrepreneurs on affordable and sustainable business models so they can live life on their terms without breaking the bank.
