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Every professional and every entrepreneurs that I know are problem solvers, right? So why do so many of us ignore one of the biggest problems we face?
We're talking about loneliness.
Why do we ignore it? Because it is a silent adversary that often goes unnoticed in our community. But it is literally of epidemic proportions around the world. It’s gotten so bad that the U.S. Surgeon General recently released an advisory about it. And today’s professionals and entrepreneurs are more likely to experience the negative effects of loneliness.
Why us? Why professionals and entrepreneurs? Because of the very nature of who we are and what we do.
So in today’s discussion we are going to look at several possible reasons “why” us.
As you read through this five (5) reasons that we are very susceptible to loneliness, I want you to ‘check’ that apply to you.
Isolation at the Top. As professionals at the top of our game or as successful entrepreneurs, we often bear the weight of significant decision-making and responsibility. While our success is exhilarating, it can also create a sense of isolation. Few people truly understand the unique challenges we face, making it difficult to share our triumphs and struggles with others.
Time Constraints. Building and managing a professional career or a business demands an enormous amount of time and effort. High achieving professionals and entrepreneurs frequently find themselves working long hours, sacrificing personal relationships, neglecting social connections. The constant hustle can leave us feeling disconnected from the outside world, fostering a sense of loneliness.
Fear of Vulnerability. Professionals and entrepreneurs are known for their resilience and determination. However, this mentality can sometimes hinder our ability to express vulnerability and seek support. We often fear being perceived as weak or incompetent, causing us to bury our emotions and struggles deep inside. This self-imposed pressure can lead to loneliness and lack of meaningful connections.
Changing Relationships. As we grow, as our businesses grows, we inevitably experience changes in our personal relationship. Our priorities shift, and we may find it challenging to maintain connections with friends and family who don’t share our professional or entrepreneurial journey. This transition can be particularly isolating if our loved ones struggle to understand the demands and sacrifices we make.
Lack of Peer Support. While the various professional communities and the entrepreneurial community are vibrant and supportive, it can still be a challenge to find peers who truly understand our experiences. Many of us feel hesitant to disclose our struggles or seek guidance from peers due to concerns about competitiveness or maintaining a professional image. This reluctance can exacerbate the feelings of loneliness and isolation.
If you checked one (1) or more or all of the above reasons for loneliness, congratulations!!! For recognition of the problem … ripping off the blinders of denial … is the first step towards solving the problem.
Next week we will look at strategies to combat this adversary, an adversary that can undermine our well-being, productivity, and overall satisfaction despite our professional achievements.
Blessings,
Diane
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