One of the benefits of working for myself has been the opportunity to join co-working communities. Ironic, I know.
It’s funny to say that the benefit of working for yourself is that you can find places to work with people. But I didn’t become an entrepreneur in order to get away from people. It was a side effect.
I find that the energy of a co-working space is really inspiring because everyone chooses to be there each day. And whether you pay a membership, or a drop-in fee, you’re not inclined to waste any of that time browsing Instagram.
When I was working full-time for a non-profit organization, I joined Side Hustle Sundays at Make Lemonade in Toronto. Being around people that had goals outside of their workday was inspiring. Getting to meet all kinds of business owners opened my eyes to the different opportunities of entrepreneurship. I met a woman who does personal branding photography, a woman who organizes cross-stitch workshops, a woman with her own makeup company and many more unique business owners.
Among some of the many personal and professional development sessions I attended at the space, included topics like conscious relationships, money mindset, Instagram marketing, and sales. I’ve even attended a skincare social and an astrology meetup! One of the sessions even lead to me meeting the woman who would eventually become my business coach.
When the pandemic started, it was imminent that Make Lemonade would be affected. The owner, Rachel Kelly, a resilient woman who is skilled at making lemonade didn’t despair, and instead spent time pivoting. She has launched a virtual membership, which includes accountability calls, work sprints, and brainstorming sessions. She has managed to bring the spirit of community and camaraderie online. It’s a community anyone can join – even if they’re working 9-5!
As a career coach, I am highly aware of the importance of a person’s work environment. The good news is that everyone can carve out time to do things that inspire and motivate them. For me, this means connecting to a community of goal-oriented, creative people.