How to Deal with Loneliness at Work as a Solo Entrepreneur

By Anthony Dyson

In today’s economic world, an increasing number of individuals are opting to bite the bullet and go it alone by starting their businesses or freelancing. While there are several advantages to doing it alone, there are also drawbacks.

When you ask small business owners and start-ups about the hurdles they’ve experienced in starting their firm, you’ll almost invariably hear about the first financial difficulties and fears of failure. However, you may be surprised to learn that many solo entrepreneurs experience extreme loneliness after making the transition from employee to a one-man band. So, how can we combat workplace loneliness and ensure that we – and our company – thrive?

Coworking is a trendy new idea in which people pay a nominal fee to operate in a shared office space with other like-minded entrepreneurs. This is a terrific method to meet individuals in a professional context who may be able to assist you with work-related issues or perhaps open up options for networking, trade, or financing. Many places also host events for members, allowing you to expand your social network.

Furthermore, coworking pushes you to get out of bed in the morning and be more productive. The excitement of watching others work hard and success will only inspire you to do the same.

Just because you work from home doesn’t mean you have to do all of your business online or over the phone. When scheduling meetings with business partners, clients, consumers, or prospective leads, try to meet them face-to-face at their home, workplace, or a nearby café.

Embracing in-person encounters will not only make you feel less alone, but it will also help you create better human ties with your corporate prospects, which is crucial in the competitive world of business.

Thousands of business networking organisations exist, providing entrepreneurs with various possibilities to interact, seek after-hours assistance, and get objective, constructive critique from others. A simple Google search will turn up a slew of useful results, and social media sites like LinkedIn offer a slew of free groups to join. Many of them are specialists and cater to certain businesses, so you’ll almost certainly be able to find one that suits your requirements – and if one doesn’t, why not start one?

It’s all too easy to blur the boundary between work and me time’ when your workplace is also your home. You can find yourself managing bills at 9 p.m. on a Friday instead of going out to dinner with your loved ones if you don’t have set office hours like most of your friends and family.

As a result, even if you operate unconventionally, you should strive to set office hours and set targets for yourself, just as you would in any other employment. That way, you may have a vibrant social life while keeping your company running well.

There’s a reason dogs are known as “man’s best friend,” and it’s because they make excellent companions. So, even if your connections with other people are limited throughout the workday, you may still combat loneliness by adopting a fluffy office companion if your environment permits it. Furthermore, having a pet to care for and walk will aid in the establishment of a routine and ensure that you wake up bright and early to go to work. It’s a win-win situation!