Being a founder can feel isolating at times. But there are ways to stay connected and avoid that sense of isolation. Here are three simple tips to help you overcome founder loneliness and stay motivated.
Feeling isolated as a founder? Schedule a Discovery Call today to learn about overcoming isolation as a founder and staying connected and supported in your leadership journey.
1. Be Open About Your Journey
Being honest and open about your experience as a founder can help you connect with others. When you share what you’re going through, you’ll attract people who want to help. You’ll find others who have been in your shoes and are willing to offer advice and support.
You’ll also gather two kinds of people:
- Those Ahead of You: They have more experience and can offer valuable wisdom.
- Those Behind You: You can offer advice and help guide them on their journey.
You will begin building a support network that gives you a chance to give back.
Read More: Looking to grow your network? Check out our article on Unlocking the Power of Storytelling: Techniques That Drive Conversions
2. Create a Small Support Group
Mental health for entrepreneurs can be improved by building a small, trusted group of advisors to stay connected and avoid founder loneliness. This “kitchen cabinet” should be made up of 3-5 people who are smart, trustworthy, and able to give you honest feedback.
These people don’t need to be in your group, but they should be:
- Reliable and
- Disinterested—meaning they aren’t directly involved in your business. This gives them the ability to offer unbiased advice and be a sounding board for your challenges.
Leaders like Benjamin Franklin and Napoleon Hill were known to use mastermind groups like this to stay grounded and make important decisions.
3. Find a Hobby That Takes Your Mind Off Work
It’s easy to let your business consume your thoughts. A hobby forces your mind to unplug reducing the risk of burnout and improving mental health for entrepreneurs. Look for activities that fully engage your attention.
Here are two examples:
- Flying: When you’re flying, you must focus on the task, leaving no room for business thoughts.
- Art: Creative activities like watercolor painting tap into a different part of your brain, allowing you to disconnect from work.
The key is to pick a hobby that helps you recharge, so you can come back to your business with fresh energy.
Stay Connected and Recharge
Being a founder doesn’t have to be a lonely experience. You can overcome isolation by opening up about your journey, building a support network, and finding a hobby that helps you unplug to stay connected and motivated. These simple steps will help with overcoming founder loneliness and allow you to maintain balance and avoid burnout while growing your business.
