The isolation of self-employment: How to combat loneliness and build a support network

One of the most common yet often overlooked challenges of self-employment is isolation. While many people are drawn to the independence and freedom that comes with running their own business, the reality is that being self-employed can be a lonely experience. Whether you're working from home, a co-working space, or from a small office, the lack of daily interaction with colleagues can sometimes take a toll on your mental health. 

The isolation of self-employment can contribute to feelings of loneliness, anxiety, and even depression. Without the natural social structure that comes from a traditional workplace, it can be easy to feel disconnected, unsupported, and overwhelmed. 

Working alone doesn’t have to mean feeling along. Recognising the mental health impact of isolation and finding ways to stay connected can help you thrive.  

The impact of isolation on mental health 

Self-employment often means spending long hours alone, whether you're brainstorming, working on tasks, or managing your business. While this can sometimes be productive, it can also be mentally and emotionally challenging. Here are some ways isolation can negatively affect your mental health: 

1. Loneliness  

Being by yourself for extended periods can lead to feelings of loneliness. Even though you may interact with clients or customers, you may miss the day-to-day social interactions you would typically have in a team environment. Over time, this lack of connection can lead to feelings of isolation, especially if you're working from home or don’t have regular in-person interactions with others.

2. Increased stress and anxiety  

Without colleagues or peers to share the workload or bounce ideas off of, the pressure to perform can feel even heavier. The stress of constantly managing every aspect of your business without the support of others can lead to anxiety and burnout. The weight of responsibility can be overwhelming, particularly if you're struggling with self-doubt or imposter syndrome.

3. Reduced motivation and productivity  

Social interaction can act as a source of motivation, accountability, and inspiration. When you're isolated, you may find it harder to stay motivated or productive, as there may be fewer external stimuli to push you forward. Prolonged isolation can lead to a lack of enthusiasm for your work and a decrease in productivity.

4. Difficulty in maintaining work-life balance  

The lines between work and personal life often blur when you're self-employed. Without colleagues to encourage breaks or to remind you when the workday is over, you might find yourself working longer hours or feeling guilty when you're not working. This can lead to burnout, and over time, it can affect both your physical and mental health.

How to combat loneliness and build a support network

While isolation in self-employment can be tough, there are several proactive steps you can take to combat loneliness and build a robust support system. Here are some strategies to help you stay connected, supported, and mentally healthy while working independently.

1. Join professional networks and communities

One of the most effective ways to combat isolation is by joining professional networks and communities that align with your industry. Whether through online forums, local meetups, or industry-specific groups, being part of a community of like-minded professionals can give you the social interaction and support you need.

• Online communities: consider joining social media groups, online forums, or slack channels where you can connect with other self-employed people. Platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and reddit have specific groups for self-employed individuals, freelancers, and entrepreneurs where you can ask questions, share experiences, and offer advice.
   
• Industry meetups and networking events: attend conferences, networking events, and industry meetups, either virtually or in person. These events not only provide opportunities to connect with other professionals but can also help you expand your business and learn new skills.

2. Collaborate and partner with others

While being self-employed often means working alone, collaboration can be a powerful way to break up the isolation. Whether it’s partnering with another business owner for a project or working with a colleague to share expertise, collaborating with others can provide a sense of camaraderie.

• Co-working spaces: consider joining a co-working space where you can work alongside other entrepreneurs or professionals. Co-working spaces often foster a community environment, offering opportunities to network, share ideas, and even find potential collaborators or business partners.
   
• Business partnerships: look for potential collaborators in your industry who you can partner with for projects or services. By working with others, you not only share the workload but also build meaningful professional relationships.

3. Schedule regular check-ins with clients, mentors, and peers

It's easy to get caught up in the day-to-day tasks of running a business, but regularly checking in with clients, mentors, and peers can help you stay connected and provide much-needed support. These interactions give you the opportunity to seek advice, share updates, and build rapport, all of which can help you feel less isolated.

• Client calls and meetings: regular calls with your clients can help you maintain strong relationships while breaking up the routine of working alone. These calls can also give you an opportunity to receive feedback and guidance, which can improve your confidence and reduce feelings of self-doubt.
   
• Mentorship: seek out a mentor or advisor who can offer you advice, guidance, and encouragement. A mentor can provide both professional insights and emotional support as you navigate the ups and downs of running your own business.

4. Make time for social activities outside of work

To reduce feelings of isolation, it’s essential to carve out time for social activities that are unrelated to work. Whether it’s joining a fitness class, attending a hobby group, or simply spending time with friends and family, these social interactions are vital for maintaining a healthy work-life balance.

• Social groups and classes: participating in group activities like exercise classes, cooking workshops, or art courses can help you connect with others outside of the business world. These interactions give you an opportunity to relax, meet new people, and take a break from work-related stress.
   
• Social events: make an effort to attend social gatherings, even if they’re informal or virtual. Maintaining a personal social network is crucial to your overall wellbeing and mental health.

5. Utilise mental health support services

If you find that isolation is seriously affecting your mental health, it’s important to seek support. Many self-employed individuals are hesitant to reach out for help, but mental health support services are available and can be incredibly beneficial.

At Able Futures, we provide no-cost, confidential mental health coaching for self-employed individuals. Our service offers one-on-one coaching sessions to help you manage stress, reduce feelings of isolation, and build resilience. If you're struggling with loneliness or mental health issues as a self-employed person, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to support you.

6. Establish healthy work-life boundaries

The absence of a structured work environment can make it challenging to separate work from personal life. Establishing clear work-life boundaries is essential to maintain both your mental health and your relationships. Set specific work hours, take regular breaks, and be mindful of not overworking yourself.

• Set defined work hours: set a clear start and end time for your workday. Stick to these times to ensure you have enough personal time to relax, socialise, and engage in other activities that help you feel connected to the world outside of your business.
   
• Take breaks: take regular breaks throughout the day to step away from your work. Go for a walk, do some stretches, or chat with a friend to refresh your mind and avoid burnout.

From surviving to thriving!

Isolation is a common challenge for those who are self-employed, but it doesn’t have to be a solitary journey. By taking proactive steps to build a support network, connect with others, and prioritise your mental health, you can combat loneliness and thrive as a self-employed professional. Remember, you don’t have to do it all alone - reaching out for help, engaging in professional communities, and maintaining social connections are all crucial steps toward building a successful and fulfilling career while safeguarding your wellbeing.

At Able Futures, we offer support for self-employed individuals facing mental health challenges, and we’re here to help you navigate the difficulties of self-employment with confidence and resilience. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you need support—your mental health is just as important as your business success.