The thing that terrified me the most about starting my own business wasn’t that I knew nothing, it was that I was afraid to work by myself.

As a team player, I thrive on collaboration and exchanging ideas. The thought of losing this camaraderie and facing solitude was daunting. However, to my surprise, I’ve discovered a greater sense of community since becoming a solo entrepreneur. Here are the top five strategies that have helped me:

1. Leverage Your Existing Network for Input

Just because you’re no longer colleagues doesn’t mean you can’t seek advice. Whenever I hit a roadblock, I reach out to friends and former coworkers who specialize in the areas where I need assistance. This keeps me connected and provides valuable insights that I might not have considered on my own.

2. Join a Co-Working Space with a Vibrant Community

Co-working spaces are a fantastic way to find a new set of “coworkers.” At my co-working space, I greet people, engage in casual conversations, share frustrations, and offer mutual support. These interactions replicate the social environment of a traditional office, making the workday more enjoyable and less lonely.

3. Engage in Online Communities and Build Personal Connections

Online communities can be overwhelming, but they also offer a wealth of opportunities for connection. Instead of trying to engage with everyone, I focus on creating meaningful one-on-one relationships. This might involve commenting on LinkedIn posts, participating in discussions, or scheduling individual calls. These personal connections often lead to deeper, more rewarding relationships.

4. Attend Small, Focused In-Person Events

Large events can be daunting, especially for introverts. I’ve found more success attending smaller, focused gatherings. These events provide a more intimate setting where it’s easier to meet and connect with people. My goal is to find a few groups that meet regularly, allowing me to build consistent relationships over time.

5. Develop Social Hobbies Outside of Work

Having interests outside of work is crucial for maintaining balance and building community. For example, I played golf during my sabbatical and joined several ladies’ golf leagues. This gave me a fun activity and a solid group of friends with whom I regularly play. Engaging in social hobbies ensures that my life isn’t solely focused on work, providing a much-needed outlet for relaxation and connection.


Building a community as a solo entrepreneur requires effort, but it’s incredibly rewarding. The freedom to choose my “team” means that I surround myself with people I genuinely enjoy, making my entrepreneurial journey much more fulfilling.

An adventurer at heart, I'm highly curious and love new experiences — whether that's meeting new people, reading a new book, traveling somewhere new, or learning a new sport. 
I love working in highly technical problem spaces, helping teams identify real problems and create valuable solutions.

Complex problems are my thing.

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