Starting your own business is an exciting and empowering adventure. You get to set your own hours, follow your passions, and work on projects and plans that you love and inspire you.
But with all the freedom and independence that running your own business brings, there is one challenge that many sole businesses owners face: loneliness and isolation.
While being your own boss is incredibly rewarding, loneliness can creep in, making you feel disconnected from others and may even rob you from the joy that running your own business can provide.
The good news? Loneliness doesn’t have to be a permanent part of your self-employment story. You have the power to build meaningful connections and create a balanced, fulfilling routine that supports both your personal and professional life (Shankar, McMunn, & Stansfeld, 2011).
Understanding loneliness in self-employment
During the initial phases of your self-employment journey it is easy to become so focused on building your business plan, brand, marketing, building clients, and learning new skills that it’s easy to overlook the solitude that comes with being your own boss. But over time, the quiet can become heavy.
Loneliness in self-employment isn’t just about being physically alone; it’s about missing the daily social interactions that are a natural part of working in a traditional workplace. When we don’t have those connections, it’s easy to feel disconnected from your work and the sense of community that the workplace fosters, and it is these connections that helps to keep you motivated (Barbour & Schueller, 2013, Khan, 2023, The Guardian, 2018).
If you’re feeling lonely or isolated, know you’re not alone. Many self-employed people experience similar challenges. This can lead to:
- Lower motivation: Without the support of teammates or colleagues, staying energised and driven can be difficult (Cacioppo & Patrick, 2008).
- Increased stress: Managing everything on your own can be overwhelming without someone to share the load.
- Creative blocks: Working solo for too long can cause you to miss the spark that comes from collaboration and brainstorming
- A sense of disconnection: Without regular interactions with others, it’s easy to feel distant from your purpose and the excitement of your work (Hargadon & Bechky, 2006).
How to build connections and combat loneliness
There are many ways to reduce isolation and bring connection, creativity, and joy back into your work life. By reaching out to others, networking, and nurturing relationships, you can create a sense of community and support. Here are some practical, easy-to-implement steps to get you started:
1. Join online communities and networks
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The internet and social media have made it easier than ever to connect with like-minded individuals. There are many online forums, groups, and communities where self-employed people can share advice, offer support, and build friendships. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, Reddit, or niche industry groups are great places to find others who understand what you’re going through (Macmillan, 2014).
2. Make networking fun
Networking doesn’t have to be boring or intimidating! In fact, it can be enjoyable and enriching. Look for local or virtual events, webinars, and meetups that align with your interests or business goals. These gatherings are a great opportunity to meet new people, exchange ideas, and expand your professional network—all while enjoying a sense of camaraderie (Kirkman et al., 2004).
3. Incorporate social time into your routine
When you’re working from home, it’s easy to fall into a rut of isolation. That’s why it’s crucial to carve out time for socialising, even in small doses. Whether it’s scheduling a virtual coffee with a fellow entrepreneur, checking in with a mentor, or having lunch with a friend - those moments of connection can help you feel grounded and less alone (Khan et al, 2023, Macmillan, 2014).
4. Collaborate and co-create
You don’t have to do everything yourself! Even if you’re a solopreneur, there are so many opportunities to collaborate with others. You can co-host a webinar, create content together, or team up for a project -Collaboration can bring new energy, fresh ideas, and a sense of shared purpose to your work (Dutton et al., 2014, The Guardian, 2018).
5. Try co-working spaces
If the isolation of working from home feels stifling, a co-working space could be the change you need. These spaces are designed for freelancers, entrepreneurs, and small business owners, offering both a productive environment and a sense of community. You’ll have the chance to meet other self-employed people, share ideas, and find inspiration. Plus, many co-working spaces host events and workshops, providing even more opportunities to connect and grow your network (Mollenkopf, Miesen, & Kleser, 2020, The Guardian, 2018).
6. Build a support system
As a self-employed individual, it’s tempting to wear all the hats yourself—but it’s important to recognise that you don’t have to do everything alone. Building a reliable support team can help you manage the day-to-day tasks and reduce isolation (Macmillan, 2014).
7. Make time for yourself
It’s easy to get caught up in building your business that you forget to take care of yourself. But self-care is essential for maintaining both your mental and physical well-being. Whether it’s exercise, cooking, spending time with loved ones, or simply relaxing with a good book, make sure to schedule time for activities that help you recharge (Dutton et al., 2014, Nikolaev et la., 2023).
Tips for prioritising "you"
Self-employment offers incredible freedom but can also lead to challenges that affect your mental health. To thrive, it’s essential to prioritise your well-being. Here are key tips to help you manage stress and maintain a healthy work-life balance:
- Set clear work hours: Establish a work schedule and stick to it. When the workday ends, disconnect and enjoy your personal time.
- Take regular breaks: Step away from your desk for short breaks throughout the day to recharge and boost creativity.
- Delegate tasks: Outsource tasks like bookkeeping or social media management to focus on what truly matters.
- Focus on professional growth: Keep learning to stay confident and inspired.
- Celebrate wins: Acknowledge small successes to build confidence and maintain motivation.
- Maintain a sleep routine: Prioritise rest to improve focus and overall well-being.
- Prioritise self-care: Make time for activities that nurture your physical and mental health, like exercise relaxation or mindfulness.
Remember: you’re not alone!
The self-employment journey is filled with incredible opportunities, but it’s also true that loneliness and isolation can be real challenges. But here’s the good news: you don’t have to face these obstacles alone.
Take it one step at a time—reach out to others, collaborate, network, and always prioritise your well-being. Remember, you’re not just building a business; you’re building a life that aligns with your dreams and values. So, keep going, stay connected, and know that you’ve got this! The best is yet to come.
Written by Deborah Flower, Psychologist – Asuria National Wellbeing ManagerDeborah Flower works in our Wellbeing Specialist Team as the National Wellbeing Manager to provide Allied Health services through her experience as a dedicated psychologist. Bringing years of experience to her role within Asuria, Deborah and her team work to provide support of the highest quality to our clients.
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