There are no shortage of successful examples solopreneurs who have created their own way to grow innovative businesses. They are often held up as people who value autonomy and control and who approach business building as one the hero's journey.

But I believe our culture has blown the “solo” part of solopreneurship out of proportion, leading too many would-bes entrepreneurs and creators to feel like them HAVE to go alone. And while solopreneurs ARE only responsible for making decisions regarding their businesses, this does not mean that they must work independently in every aspect of it. By doing so it can actually be harmful.

many successful entrepreneurs find ways to involve others for support and guidance and create a shared journey. Through my work with creators, many of whom are solopreneurs, I've seen how this approach can be transformative. For example, for many years, my company has organized an event in which women of color in the creative economy have shared their experiences. We found that creating space for these solopreneurs led to record attendance. It's all part of a larger movement that has seen entrepreneurs come together in real life and virtual platforms to harness the power of community and collaboration.

Connected: 5 Ways for Solopreneurs to Sustain Momentum and Thrive

As an entrepreneur, you ARE part of something bigger

The growing number of entrepreneurs effectively has changed the face of our economy. Today more than 80% of US small business owners operate without any staff. For some, this works well.

But I've noticed that many creatives, for example, go into their journey with the mistaken belief that if they can't figure it out for themselves, they're not entrepreneurial. The reality is that stoically resisting help or not seeking support or community can lead to loneliness, burnout, and even depression.

Working with others is powerful, and many brands are tapping into this movement and finding ways to facilitate inspiration and connection by bringing their communities together – whether it's about e-commerce, crowdfunding, fitness or other aspects of life and business. The cliché is indeed true: we can go faster alone, but we often go farther together. Embracing a community-based approach can lead to tangible benefits.

The power of finding your people (and places).

However, expanding your definition of solopreneurship isn't just about finding people to work with. It can also be about discovering solutions you didn't know existed, getting access to information or guidance from people who have been there, or even just having a place to go when you need a break from your office of the house. Here are some of the ways I've seen individuals get one collaborative approach towards solopreneurship – and reap the benefits:

Choosing technology platforms that provide community

We have all experienced the growth of online communities – public and private – but consider the unifying force of technological tools that support people in achieving specific goals. Whether it's launching a course or implementing a payment system, you'll find people rallying around platforms that offer concrete solutions. Choose your platforms wisely and you'll end up with more than just tools; you can find new colleagues, collaborators and a lot of shared expertise.

Work from a workspace

Anyone who has ever worked from home—or started a business out of their basement—understands the value of a good workspace. Beyond placing you among your peers, they provide rich gathering spaces for entrepreneurs who want to network, learn, and enjoy the creative energy of others. Research has shown that people thrive in collaborative spaces thanks to the collective increase in productivity and creativity – and that they can be great too antidote for burning.

Attending conferences and events in person

Since Covid put a hiatus on live events, it has been difficult for many of us to get back into the swing of things. But there are benefits to immersing yourself in a room full of strangers — especially the chance to make deeper connections. Sharing new experiences with other people in person can lead to the kinds of connections you just don't get over Zoom (and making that personal investment can open up other ways to maximize your returns there too.)

Joining a partner

Affiliates are still having their moment, but they can be more than just a trendy way to build an audience. I genuinely get excited when I see the entrepreneurs I follow come together because I've seen how great collaborations can effectively fill business gaps. Plus, good partnerships can also uncover new opportunities, increase revenue and even drive innovation. Of course, there can be risks for collaborations as wellbut as long as you stay true to your goals and brand, you will benefit.

Connected: Solopreneurs are changing the face of the economy

Finding a mentor

Like peers, mentors offer business advice based on their lived experience, but they also bring the wisdom of seniority. But if the intimidating factor of approaching one mentor if it's holding you back, you can always start more informally. Many solopreneurs give back to their communities by sharing their learnings through courses or live events. Start by following people you admire and see what it can lead to.

However you choose to expand your definition of solopreneurship, keep in mind that inviting others on your journey does not negate your success; at the end of the day, the buck still stops with you. By putting together a new narrative about the realities of solopreneurship, we can begin to normalize the idea that creatives and entrepreneurs don't need to walk this path alone. And sometimes, just knowing that help – and a shoulder to lean on – is out there can go a long way towards increasing resilience, capacity and determination to carry on.