What it means to you to find yours support networkand how can you tell when you've really found it? I was one of those people who would use the term “finding my support network” to describe the process of connecting with like-minded individuals or entrepreneurial communities who share their values, interests and goals.

I wanted that sense of belonging and felt strongly that having those connections would be essential to my personal and business growth and success. At the time, I didn't realize that I raised part of my support network, my children. When I wanted opinions from people I trusted, I would reach out to them, in our family group chat. Sometimes I reached out not because I needed their opinions, but because I wanted to make them feel included in my journey. I recently connected with some cousins ​​I didn't grow up with and are now part of my support network.

Related: 5 reasons why you need a support network

My support network

One of them is always checking in on me and making sure I'm taking regular breaks and continuing to practice. self care. The other will sit on the phone and discuss with me about my various business ventures. They are all very thoughtful and have great knowledge. I also have a friend who has offered to invest in my business if I ever wanted to go down that road. Then there is my old colleague who gave me information about an opportunity where I could earn the money I needed to pay for marketing campaigns. My support network was there the whole time. They weren't what I originally thought my network would look like, but they have been the best.

My support network wasn't huge, but it was solid and reliable, which is most important to me.

“The greatness of a community is most accurately measured by the compassionate actions of its members.” – Coretta Scott King

At the beginning of my journey, I had trust issues due to negative past experiences, but once I started to be more open setting boundariesmy support network began to grow.

Since then I have had great collaborations with some of them. I've even started linking some of them to other brands, which I think would be mutually beneficial.

Finding your support network as an entrepreneur can provide you with a helpful, knowledgeable, and inspiring community that can significantly contribute to your success and well-being. entrepreneurial journey.

Related: The numbers you need in your business support system

How to know when you've found your support network

Here are some ways entrepreneurs can know when they've found their support network:

1. Faith and loyalty: Trust is an essential component in any business, and who better to trust than family? Their loyalty can be invaluable, especially in the early stages of a business when finding reliable team members can be challenging.

2. Common values: Entrepreneurs typically bond with their support network when they share similar values ​​and beliefs. This may include a commitment to innovation, a passion for a specific industry or cause, or a commitment to ethical business practices. When you find others who match your core values, it's a sign that you've found your support network.

3. Common interests: Your support network may consist of people who have a strong interest in the same industry, country or area of ​​expertise as you. Whether it's tech startups, eco-friendly businesses or social entrepreneurship, common interests can create a strong bond.

4. Networking and Events: Entrepreneurs often participate networking eventsindustry-specific conferences or gatherings to meet others who share their entrepreneurial spirit. When you consistently run into familiar faces at these events and make meaningful connections, you're likely to build your support network.

5. Support environment: Your network should provide a supportive and nurturing environment where you feel comfortable sharing your ideas, challenges and aspirations. Mutual encouragement, advice and mentoring are common indicators of a supportive entrepreneurial network.

6. Cooperation opportunities: Entrepreneurs often collaborate with members of their support network for projects, partnerships or ventures. When you find people who are eager to work together and leverage each other's strengths, that's a positive sign.

7. Sense of belonging: Feeling like you belong and are understood by others in your support network is a strong indicator. When you can relate to their experiences, challenges and aspirations, and they can relate to yours, you've likely found your people.

8. Personal growth: Being part of a support network can also contribute to your personal and professional growth. If you find that your network inspires you, challenges you, and helps you grow as an entrepreneur, it's a good sign you're in the right group.

9. Long-term relationships: The building stable relationship with fellow entrepreneurs is a hallmark of finding your support network. These relationships can extend beyond business and become valuable connections in your personal life.

10. Online communities: In today's digital age, many entrepreneurs find their support networks through online communities, forums, social media groups and specialized platforms. Engagement in discussions and forming bonds in these virtual spaces can be as meaningful as personal interactions.

11. Gut feeling: Ultimately, finding your support network often comes down to a gut feeling. You will feel a real connection, a common purpose and a sense of belonging when you have found the right group of people.

Related: Why entrepreneurs need other passionate entrepreneurs in their ecosystem

Keep in mind that your support network can evolve and you can be part of multiple networks based on different aspects of your life and interests. Keep an open mind, actively seek connections and be open to new opportunities to find and nurture your support network.