Read Margaret's bio.
Skip to main content
Skip to footer
Human Resources Expert Expert: Margaret Lobenstine
Staying motivated and finding a community
Q: I started my own business a year ago. Lately I've found it's taking more effort to stay motivated. I wonder if it has something to do with the fact that I work alone and mostly interact with clients by phone and email. Any ideas for staying inspired and finding a community?
A: You are definitely not alone with these challenges. Many of my clients are people whom I call "renaissance souls." They thrive when doing many different things. This temperament is common among entrepreneurs, and several of my clients own their own businesses. They bring the same questions to our coaching sessions. And, yes, there definitely is a connection between motivation and community!
Interacting with a community of one's peers is a great way to stay motivated. Doing so offers you the stimulation of new ideas, the sympathy needed to keep going over the inevitable rough spots, and the benefit of sharing in other people's rewarding moments. How do you find such a community? I would immediately get in touch with the Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Administration office in your area. Ask for the names of any already–existing groups of independent business owners. You can also develop your own small peer group.
There are two ways to think about this. Some of my clients prefer to find three or four other people who work alone but in different fields – so they don't need to worry about sharing confidences with competitors. Others specifically enjoy having a peer group with people from the exact same world. Either way, the key is to have the meetings on a regular frequent basis and to have each meeting include time for members to share their issues and get feedback from others. Depending on the size of your group and the frequency of the meetings, various formats seem to work more effectively. Should you end up wanting to start your own group and feel you need more coaching on the particulars, you can get in touch with me. Meanwhile, you are on the right track asking these questions!
Interacting with a community of one's peers is a great way to stay motivated. Doing so offers you the stimulation of new ideas, the sympathy needed to keep going over the inevitable rough spots, and the benefit of sharing in other people's rewarding moments. How do you find such a community? I would immediately get in touch with the Chamber of Commerce and the Small Business Administration office in your area. Ask for the names of any already–existing groups of independent business owners. You can also develop your own small peer group.
There are two ways to think about this. Some of my clients prefer to find three or four other people who work alone but in different fields – so they don't need to worry about sharing confidences with competitors. Others specifically enjoy having a peer group with people from the exact same world. Either way, the key is to have the meetings on a regular frequent basis and to have each meeting include time for members to share their issues and get feedback from others. Depending on the size of your group and the frequency of the meetings, various formats seem to work more effectively. Should you end up wanting to start your own group and feel you need more coaching on the particulars, you can get in touch with me. Meanwhile, you are on the right track asking these questions!
Some issues discussed in the expert forum are complex and continually changing.We recommend you consult a professional advisor about your specific circumstances, needs, and applicable laws. More details.