Lately, it’s become evident to me how critical support communities are needed in order to grow, develop and achieve your goals. This is relevant both in your life and business.
I saw just how important this was when I was fortunate enough to enroll in Marie Forleo’s B-School program in Spring 2013 (if you haven’t heard of Marie, google her, you won’t be disappointed!). One of the strongest benefits of this program is having a network of 12,000+ amazing, supporting and loving entrepreneurs. These are business owners who get what you go through on a daily basis. As different as we all are, there is always a level of love and support within the group. It’s fantastic because you can post a business or tech related question, to questions regarding support launching a new business and program, or even support of a personal nature where all you’re looking for is a virtual hug and reassurance that all is well. And you get an influx of support no matter what you’re looking for. It can be quite empowering.
We all know that business ownership can feel lonely at times, and when you’re a female business owner with family responsibilities and obligations, the feeling of overwhelm can add up. This is why it is so critical to have a network of people you can call upon to help you navigate through the ups and downs.
This support network should consist of those who understand what you’re going through and are able to inspire and motivate you to keep going. Your network should also be able to hold you accountable to your business goals, in addition to supporting and sharing resources with you to help achieve your goals. Forming or joining a mastermind group is an amazing way to get this support and bring like-minded people together, along with various social media groups that you can join.
Another benefit to having this kind of support is that a funny thing tends to happen as you start to grow and evolve in your business. Sometimes, those closest to you become distant and may not support your growth and aspirations. They no longer become aligned to your goals and needs as a business owner. This can be difficult and lonely because it’s hard for these people to understand the risks that you take, and the committed needed to achieve the success you crave. They may resist the change in you as you start being the person needed to reach your goals. Consequently, you no longer become comfortable in the crowd you’re currently in.
Jim Rohn says, “You are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.” So I ask you, look to those that you spend most of your time with. Are they ones that inspire you? Do they support your growth? Do they encourage you? Or do they sabotage your desire for growth and success? Be honest and strong enough to walk away or distant yourself from those that do not support you, and look for those that do.
Remember, you may be self-employed, however you need the help of others to achieve your business goals.
Uchechi Ezurike-Bosse is a Business & Lifestyle Strategist, Speaker and Writer, but most importantly, a proud Mother and Wife. Uchechi is Founder of My Empowered Living (http://www.myempoweredliving.com) a website aimed at helping women shift their mindset and live their passion! Whether it’s starting and building their dream business, or helping them create a lifestyle they crave, Uchechi is the modern woman’s secret to success! Visit Uchechi at www.myempoweredliving.com to get her FREE online video training series The 4 Keys to your Business Success! This free 4-day business training reveals her 4 key strategies needed to build a profitable and successful business, and how to put them to work in your business!