“I am just so lonely and need to have someone I can talk to”

By no means a unique comment and yes I heard it again this week – “I am just so lonely and need to have someone I can talk to”. Yet the comment never ceases to move me, I can see how difficult it is for those in that position and I have been their when I started my own business.


When in corporate life there is always someone to talk to, someone to interact with, perhaps even someone to argue with. But at least there is someone.

Loneliness is one of those unforeseen things which hit most new entrepreneurs. We never expected it and some never manage it or learn to cope with it.

So if it is a challenge to most self-employed people then the solution should be simple. Indeed, once we realise that we are not alone in the feeling hopefully it removes some of the stigma and some of the problem.

Now we can build an “environment” around us to overcome the problem. Some of the things we can do are;

• Become part of a networking group which focuses one building a personal network rather than selling to the members. Becoming a member means being their regularly, interacting with the other members inside and outside the meetings and trying to help them. Look upon the group members in the same way you would a colleagues. For this to work the networking group needs to have the right ethics and, for me, those who pressurise you for referrals does not work. I like www.nrg-networks.com.

• Build a group of five advocates i.e. those you advocate as well as those who advocate you (although it is likely to be the same group). There is nothing more satisfying than advocating others and seeing them build their business – you know the good deed will be returned in time.

• Have a business mentor who will give you impartial support. The person must be impartial, a partner, father or friend will not work because there is another relationship in the way of the discussion. They need to be someone you can build a relationship with yet who will tell you what you need to hear rather than want to hear.

Above all else remember, you may feel lonely but you are not alone in feeling that way and there are lots of people who will benefit from talking to you. Ignore the false pride and tell people how you feel, they will understand.

Do call me on 07760 404274 if you would like to talk.