As a solopreneur, have you ever felt like you're navigating the vast ocean of business all alone?
I certainly have!
When I transitioned from being a licensed trauma therapist to an author, speaker, and transformational guide, I quickly realized that success isn't a solo journey. As a teacher and agency therapist, I was always surrounded by fellow professionals anytime I felt stuck or uncertain where to go next in my work. As a small business owner, all of that changed.
Today, I want to share with you the incredible power of community and how it can be the secret to your entrepreneurial success.
We often choose the path of solopreneurship for its freedom and flexibility. However, this path can sometimes feel isolating. Unlike traditional corporate settings where support systems are built-in, we solopreneurs must actively seek out and create our own business support networks. This is where the magic of community comes into play.
So what’s a business owner to do to build community?
As a solopreneur, it's essential to actively seek out and build your own support network. Here are some ideas to get you started building community.
1) Consider your needs: What kind of support are you looking for? Is it industry-specific knowledge, emotional support, or business accountability partners? Do you need professional development for entrepreneurs?
I personally needed both strategy and accountability when I was first getting started, so that’s what I looked for. Now, I am in a different stage in my business where I need more fine tuning of my offers and systems, so I am in only one mastermind group for female entrepreneurs running spiritual and healing based businesses. There, I get to talk about business growth strategies specific to my needs and goals.
2) Participate in online forums and communities in a balanced way: Put yourself out there! Be open minded and consider what platforms best suit your needs. Join industry-specific groups and places for other leaders and entrepreneurs.
Search on Facebook, LinkedIn, Meetup, or Alignable for communities that cater to your specific niches or interests. Figure out what keywords align with your business and go from there. Of course, be aware of the various rules.
When it comes to balance, trying to be on every single social media platform is a surefire way to burn out. Picking one or two socials to build community is the way to go! Consistency is key.
3) Attend networking events locally or online: Take the next leap and show up to some meetings! There are a plethora of digital and local marketing groups. Google search is your friend! And as I already mentioned, looking on your chosen social platforms is a great way to get started.
For my introverted readers, I understand that networking can feel overwhelming. Start small – perhaps by engaging in online communities where you can participate at your own pace and do asynchronous networking. Remember, quality connections matter more than quantity.
By connecting with other professionals in your field, you can gain access to valuable insights, resources, and opportunities for collaboration.
Let me take you back to when I was building my therapy practice. I built a successful six-figure practice, largely due to the support I received from a business-building community specifically designed for therapists. This community provided me with the guidance, resources, and accountability I needed to thrive. The intersection of my career, a solid community, and mentors who had built similar businesses was precisely what I needed to hit that next milestone of financial success.
However, when I began expanding into the entrepreneurial realm with products, courses, and guidance services, I found myself in need of a different kind of support. The therapy field is different from most others, and I needed a different perspective for this new set up. That's when I joined a business coaching community.
Surrounding myself with like-minded individuals who understood the unique challenges of entrepreneurship was a game-changer. It provided me with a sounding board, fresh perspectives, and the motivation to push forward. Since then, I’ve defined a whole new version of myself, published numerous books, and aligned even more with my long-term goals and dreams.
Today, I have a “business bestie” who I do accountability check ins with daily. We meet every other week to do mindset and energy clearing around our personal and professional lives.
Knowledge Sharing: By engaging with a community of fellow solopreneurs and small businesses, you gain access to a wealth of knowledge and expertise. You can learn from the successes and failures of others, saving yourself time and avoiding common pitfalls.
Collaboration Opportunities: Community opens doors to potential collaborations. You may find partners for joint ventures, co-create products or services, or even find new clients through referrals from your network. I’ve created so many incredible things with people I’ve met online and in person!
Emotional Support: Running a business can be emotionally taxing. Having a community of individuals who understand your struggles and celebrate your wins can provide much-needed emotional support and encouragement.
Accountability and Motivation: Being part of a community can hold you accountable to your goals. Regularly connecting with others who are working towards similar objectives can keep you motivated and on track.
As a solopreneur, embracing the power of community is not just a nice-to-have—it's a must-have for long-term success. By building a strong support system, actively engaging with like-minded individuals, and leveraging the knowledge and resources available within your network, you can overcome challenges, seize opportunities, and achieve your business goals.
You don't have to do it alone. Embrace the power of community and watch your business thrive.
I invite you to take the first step today. If you’re looking for a free, inclusive community, visit https://livinglunas.com to join our Discord and access a wealth of resources designed to help you thrive socially, personally, and professionally. If you wish to connect with me directly, check out https://safrianna.com. I’m building a supportive space for visionary leaders, healers, and creatives—a digital place where you can share your challenges, celebrate your wins, and connect with like-minded entrepreneurs who understand your journey.
Don't let another day pass feeling isolated in your business. Embrace the power of community and watch your entrepreneurial dreams flourish.
Together, let's transform the way we do business by building better communities – with authenticity, support, and collective joy.
How can I find the right community for my business? Look for communities that align with your industry, niche, or specific business goals. Attend networking events, join online forums or social media groups, and seek out mentorship programs or business coaching communities.
What if I'm an introvert and struggle with networking? Networking doesn't have to be overwhelming, even for introverts. Start by building one-on-one relationships through social media or email. Attend smaller, more intimate events or join online communities where you can engage at your own pace.
How much time should I invest in community building? The amount of time you invest in community building will depend on your specific goals and availability. Start by setting aside a few hours each week to engage with your network, attend events, or participate in online discussions. As you begin to see the benefits, you can adjust your time investment accordingly.
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