Still think you have to “go it alone"?

You escaped the corporate structure for freedom, but as entrepreneurs and mission-driven leaders, we often trade a boss for a profound sense of isolation. We lose that quick, casual connection; the "hey, can I bounce an idea off you?" moment, that used to generate new ideas in just a few minutes when we were stuck.

This is the Myth of the Solo Climb: the belief that asking for help is a sign of weakness, and that true leaders carry the entire weight alone.

My colleague Johanna Danaher and I dug into this on a recent webinar. We found that the feeling of being alone isn't just a symptom of overwork; it's an old habit we were often rewarded for in the past. We became the "fixers," and now, that self-reliance has turned into emotional armor that keeps us successful but utterly separate.

As I learned in marathon swimming (a seemingly "solo" sport that requires a massive team), the most difficult feats are never accomplished alone. As entrepreneurs, when faced with figuring out the right product mix, determining marketing strategy, or any of the many things on our plates, the pressure to make the right decision can feel crushing. Having a support group of like-minded entrepreneurs can make the difference between work feeling heavy or feeling joyful.

The shift starts with just 15 seconds of courage.

You don't have to climb faster or harder. You just have to stop climbing alone. True optimism and joy live in the space we create for authentic connection and honest conversations. Starting those conversations, even for introverts, is easier than you might think.

1️⃣ Ask for Help Intentionally.

2️⃣ Offer Help Generously.

3️⃣ Protect Your Energy Like It’s a Resource — Because It Is.

To hear the full conversation and learn more about the myth of the solo climb, watch the replay here: https://www.movetojoycoaching.com/videos/v/episode-4-solo-climb