By Evan Vitale
Solo entrepreneurs wear many hats: accounting, sales, marketing, janitor…you name it, they do it.
However, another obstacle many business owners face (but don’t talk about that often) is “business loneliness,” especially for those who work from home. There’s no one to talk to, bounce ideas off of or have “water cooler” chat.
Sometimes, working for yourself and by yourself can be a good things. There are definitely fewer distractions. On the other hand, loneliness can cause production to decrease as entrepreneurs look for a distraction (i.e., calling family or friends, texting, Internet surfing, etc.).
Here are some tips on how to beat “business loneliness:”
- Make it a point to get out of the office. This can be something simple such as taking a walk, going out for lunch, walking down the street to grab a cup of coffee, etc.
- Plan on attending at least one networking event per week. This not only gives you an opportunity to talk to other business owners, but you’ll be able to pass out some business cards and, who knows, maybe a new client might come calling sometime soon.
- Change the scenery. If you can, instead of working from home or the lonely office every day, grab the laptop and head to the local coffee shop (during non-peak time) or maybe go to the library. You might find the new view generates some new energy and your production increases.
- Work with another solo entrepreneur. You’re not totally “alone” when it comes to working by yourself. Other business owners are in the same boat. Perhaps, you can work together with someone; share a table at a coffee shop or take turns going to each other’s office or homes to work.
- Go to the gym or fitness center. A little workout and a little socializing at the local gym might do the trick. You’ll be around other people, can chat a little and get a good workout going at the same time.
Don’t let being a solo entrepreneur get you down. Get out there. Socialize and energize.