When I started my business, I thought to myself "How hard could it be? I've already been doing this work for years, I'm just doing it for myself instead of as an employee."

And how wrong I was!

When I looked at the beginning of my career, I see now that I wasn't alone.

• The whole class of 92 was looking for jobs together. We were sharing leads and tips. We were all experiencing disappointments and getting back up again. I didn't feel behind.
• When I started in a new company, I had a boss who mentored me and we had a weekly one-on-one. I was a part of a team where I had colleagues whom I could ask for help and advice. I knew if I made a mistake, there's always someone to catch it.
• When I moved to management roles, I still kept my mentors. And there were other managers I associated with. We exchanged frustrations, talked about direction, the organization. I learned from them and they learned from me. I didn't feel alone.

We encouraged each other, we built each other up, we showed each other it could be done and that we're not alone.

Now that I'm building a business, it's gotten lonelier. I had coaches, all of whom had a system and tasks laid out for me:

• connect with at least # people a day ☑️
• comment on # posts ☑️
• DM # connections ☑️
• invite # people to your newsletter ☑️

But in spite of all the networking I did, I still felt lonely. It was weird to be surrounded by noise but not feel connected.

Why? Because I have to show up as my best self in these interactions. The authentic part of myself that's excited and passionate about the work I do.

But there is another part of myself that's unsure, frustrated, worried sometimes. And that's the part that needs nurturing.

I no longer had a team to turn to. All the coaches around me seem successful and confident. I don't know if anyone would understand what I'm going through.

Connection is a very real and valid need we have as humans. Research has shown many benefits of connection, and harmful effects of being alone. Those who are not connected experience depression, second guessing, cognitive decline, even health problems.

Connection makes us more confident. It gives us that security to try something we've never done before. It makes us feel valued. And it just feels good.

I've found friends who are in the same journey and we've supported each other. I can't tell you how much of a difference it makes!

But I also know that I'm not the only one who feels the loneliness and the need to lean on someone even for just a moment.

So if you're launching a new business and you feel a bit alone in your journey, I'm starting a free support circle called Safe Space. You're very much welcome to join. I'd love to have you there. Check out the details and sign up here.

🤗 Michelle

Love your life!