Feeling Isolated as a Solo Entrepreneur?

Being your own boss comes with incredible freedom, but sometimes, a side effect can be loneliness. If you’re feeling that isolation creeping in, you’re not alone. It’s a common experience for those of us navigating the self-employed world.

Let's Talk Connection.

The good news? Connection doesn’t have to be a happy accident; it can be a deliberate part of your work life. Just like any other crucial task, building and nurturing your professional and personal network can be added to your to-do list. And trust us, it’s a task worth prioritizing for your well-being and your business.

So, if you’re ready to swap solo for social, let’s explore how to make connection a consistent and valuable part of your self-employed journey.

It's More Normal Than You Think

When you’re self-employed, it’s easy to feel like an outlier, or that you’re just a little bit “different.” The traditional 9-to-5 world often doesn’t quite know where to place freelancers, similar to how night-shift workers can feel somewhat alienated. But things are changing, especially since the pandemic. With more people working from home, many are adopting a “self-employed” mindset even if they’re not. For women, in particular, the increased flexibility, especially with childcare responsibilities, has been a significant positive. So, rest assured, your experience is far from unique.

Remember the Perks of the Gig

On tough days, self-employment can feel incredibly isolating. Unlike a traditional office, there’s no one checking in to see if you’re okay or noticing you having a bad day. But try to shift your focus to the immense good that comes with being your own boss. Embrace the incredible liberation that self-employment offers. Use flexibility as your superpower and structure your day to fit your life. If you finish your tasks by midday and fancy taking the dog for a walk or meeting a friend for lunch, do it! That’s the beauty of being in charge

Crafting a More Connected Work Environment

Embrace the "Fake Commute"

Feeling cooped up? A “fake commute” can work wonders. Start and end your workday with a walk to create a clear boundary between home and work. If you can, try working from coffee shops for a change of scenery and some ambient human interaction. Even if you can’t get out, you can find ambient coffee shop sounds on YouTube to provide a comforting backdrop.

Socialise During Your Workday

Who says socialising is just for evenings and weekends? Look for opportunities to connect during your work hours. For instance, you could schedule “walk and talk” phone catch-ups with a friend during their lunch breaks. These intentional conversations can feel much more meaningful than quick texts in the evening.

Be Authentic on Social Media

Social media can be a double-edged sword, especially on a lonely day. But used strategically, it can be a powerful tool for connection. If you’re feeling a certain way about your freelance work, try posting about it. You might be surprised how many people resonate and are willing to connect in a supportive group. This approach can work for any profession! Since there are limited chances to discuss the nuances of self-employment with those who might not understand, social media offers a way to reach out to people who get it. Facebook groups can also be excellent resources.

Host a "Coffee Zoom"

Consider setting up informal virtual meetups. These can be a space for setting intentions and getting noticed, but they also serve as an invaluable opportunity to talk about the unique aspects of self-employment, offload, and realise that your experiences are “normal.” Plus, it’s a great way to celebrate achievements that might otherwise feel like they exist in a vacuum.

Loneliness Isn't Exclusive to Self-Employment

First off, it’s worth remembering that loneliness isn’t just a self-employed problem. If you’ve worked in traditional employment, you might recall instances of isolation there too. Proximity to others doesn’t automatically equate to feeling understood. An unsupportive boss or unfriendly colleagues can make a traditional job feel far lonelier. The fantastic thing about self-employment is that you get to choose your own “colleagues” – the clients, collaborators, and connections who truly uplift you.

Loneliness Awareness Week will take place from 9 -15 June 2025.

Meeting Loneliness Together, this year’s theme, is all about reducing the stigma around this natural human emotion.

Final Thoughts

Loneliness is a common, and often normal, experience for self-employed individuals, but it doesn’t have to be a permanent fixture. By acknowledging that isolation isn’t exclusive to being your own boss and remembering the significant benefits of self-employment (like flexibility!), you can shift your perspective. Actively cultivating a more connected work environment is key. This means considering “fake commutes” to break up your day, intentionally socialising during work hours, hosting virtual “coffee zooms” with peers, and using social media authentically to find like-minded professionals. By being proactive and putting connection on your to-do list, you can combat loneliness and build a supportive network that enriches both your work and your well-being.