Working from home - doesn’t mean working alone

I’m very fortunate in that, most of the time, it doesn’t bother me to work by myself.  But I know it doesn’t suit everyone, and for many ‘new’ business owners who have been used to having colleagues to chat with when they were still in employment, the feeling of being alone can be really hard to get used to.

A possible solution is to rent an office or working space in one of the many small business centres around the country.  Some have communal coffee shops, meeting areas, even restaurants on site, or arrange events that are opportunities to meet fellow ‘tenants’.  But not every budget can stretch to that in the early days.  

Joining a regular local networking group is as important for the mutual support each member offers, as it is for the business opportunities sought and exchanged.  Some are better at being supportive than others.  If committing to a regular meeting on set dates is impractical, there are many other groups where you can ‘pay as you go’, as well as ad hoc networking opportunities.  Consider conferences, seminars, workshops, trade shows and exhibitions are all good ways to combine business with meeting and chatting to fellow business owners.

Belonging to a Mastermind, whether formal and paid for or an informal meeting of like-minded business owners has a lot going for it.  Good Mastermind groups are a blend of support, encouragement, learning, sharing, accountability and action focused.  I’ve found them to be a great way to help me get things done!

One of the reasons coaching is so effective is the regular contact (by phone or in person) and knowing there’s someone who is always there, through all the ups and downs of business life.  Group coaching environments bring the additional support of the other members, which often develop into deeper business relationships outside of the meetings.

There is no need to feel isolated because you work alone at home, and it’s important to the success of all small businesses to set up support systems.

What support systems work for you?  Please share your experience in the comments below.  And if you found this post helpful, a retweet would be appreciated!

Comments

[LouiseBJ]

Hi Paul - I completely agree with you about the Mastermind Group. My main motive for joining was for the accountability to get certain projects moving. It has been a lovely bonus to benefit from the support of the other members.

[LouiseBJ]

Hi Emily, thanks for commenting here & I'm so pleased you like the post! A virtual group for virtual assistants - sounds like a terrific support forum, and another great idea. Thanks for sharing.

[LouiseBJ]

Thanks for stopping by Debbie - and what a great idea! Not only do you connect with other 'home workers' to exchange ideas - you're getting fresh air & exercise at the same time. Love it :)