Don't Go It Alone

Guest Contributor: Debbie Lousberg
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I can't imagine going the "entrepreneurial route" all alone! Sounds like a contradiction in terms, but here's what I mean: while still building my own business and wearing the many hats until able to hire staff, my Mastermind groups are my cornerstones, my trusted advisors and sounding boards during this time of working alone.

I have had the good fortune of belonging to three different groups in recent years, two of which are still very important pieces of my life. The first was comprised of fellow church members where we supported each other in our life goals (mine at the time revolved around leaving my stable job and launching a business); the second is one with four of my colleagues from across the country in the career development field; and the third is a very small group of high-achieving women striving for continued success. One met weekly at the same location; the others meet bi-weekly via phone and in our homes.

My advice to entrepreneurs, especially "solopreneurs", is to find or start a group of "like minds" - those doing what you do or what you want to do and have similar philosophies and goals as yourself. Look for people who inspire you, make you think, and who are committed to their personal growth. Not only that, make sure they are committed to coming together on a regular basis to support you and others who share the same intentions.

Not only do I have the Small Business Administration, the Chamber of Commerce, Community Colleges and other associations and entities dedicated to my success as a Small Business Owner, I have my own Mastermind groups to lend me personal expertise, opinion, and resources. They are my friends, my confidants, and my small company's advisory board!