“One is the Loneliest Number”
You’ve most likely heard Three Dog Nights’ classic song One (Is the Loneliest Number) and thought about the lyrics — though perhaps not in the context of solopreneurs*.
The majority of my clients are small business owners — they’ve taken that leap of faith and branched out on their own. It’s exhilarating. It’s exhausting. And sometimes it’s lonely, too.
For those of us that have worked in large companies or organizations, inconsistent social interaction can be an entrepreneurial hiccup. Creative brainstorming, problem solving, exploring ideas, and the occasional laugh is not only helpful, but in many cases, necessary. So what do you do if it’s just you?
Lean on me! (Another song pun — I just couldn’t help myself!)
Solopreneurs are keenly aware of how valuable their time is and how it’s best utilized. The creation of efficient systems and streamlined processes help, but some tasks will need to be outsourced. It’s simple math, really. Is your time better spent producing for your clients at your billable rate or updating your home page in Wordpress? It’s an important discussion to have with yourself or a trusted advisor. The proverbial to-do list should be evaluated in this context, and then you’ll determine which distinct and/or recurring tasks to outsource.
I am reminded of when I was helping a colleague build his youth sports program back in New York. He was thrilled to have me coaching on the court with my whistle. However, the time we spent talking through how to improve and grow the program was even more valuable to him. To this day, he still says how much doing so helped him. (And by the way, the program is amazing and has grown leaps and bounds over the years!)
When you’re in the thick of the forest…. well, you know — it can be hard to see the big picture.
Stepping back and adjusting your lens is a useful tactic, particularly when it comes to your business strategy. I’m here to help you talk through your ideas and develop a plan of action. Reach out anytime.
*A solopreneur is “a business owner who works and runs his or her business alone.” (Macmillan Dictionary)