Together is Better

Being an entrepreneur is not easy and often hard.  Being a solopreneur takes business development to a whole new level.  When you are the only one “at the top” or even the only one in the house, making small, daily decisions is easy.  There’s no one to ask permission (my dream job), there’s no one to have to negotiate with, there’s no one to share the glory with, and no one telling you that you can’t take time off.  But then again, there’s no one.

As an Enneagram 7 (if you’ve never tested for your own number, do it, it’s enlightening) now I realize that going it alone when I founded my business might seem like a dream job, but at the end of the day, I was in lonely territory that would not end well.  Going it alone personally was not sustainable personally or professionally.  And the experts know that there is synergy in building a team/network.  

We are a culture of human connection and the business world is no different.  Way back when I was reveling in calling all the shots as a founder and solopreneur,  I wish I had spent more time in reflection (but who had time to reflect when you are growing a business) about just who I was and how I could operate best in my personal success “zone”.  

Even without contemplation, I, fortunately, realized I was lacking in certain areas of business expertise and needed a team of advisors and consultants to help me grow my business.  Over time, I connected with legal, financial, and strategy experts who provided advice and support many of whom are still on my team today.  These connections are the sweet spot of business as well as personal growth.  My Enneagram 7 self is happy.

Today, when asked for advice from up-and-coming entrepreneurs, whether they work solo from their homes or are building a brand on a grand scale, I always advise building connections inside the business and outside as well.  These are golden and the good ones last for years.  Gifts that truly keep on giving.