Self-Employment / Solopreneurs Archives

Introversion and Sensitivity Are Business Assets

For years, I assumed my introversion and sensitivity were obstacles I had to work around in life and business. I had absorbed a widespread belief: that introverts and highly sensitive people (HSPs) need to overcome their nature to succeed. I now know the opposite is true: these natural traits are business assets.
Here’s what I did to lean on my introversion and sensitivity which made my business work. Then I outline 4 foundational pillars that have helped me and my clients.

owl in tree tile mosaic in Spain - symbolizing a sense of balance in business

Making Your Business Work for Your Energy AND Income.

Balancing our energy and income needs is a core challenge for introverts and sensitives in a solopreneur business. Growth does not have to equal exhaustion! Here’s what helps.

Building Blocks for Sustainable Solopreneur Success - image with 4 blocks on the bottom as the foundation and 5 blocks on top that arise from those. The list of 9 is found in text below.

How long does it take to grow a coaching business (or similar solo biz)?

People often ask me, “How long does it take to grow a coaching (or related service) business?” I bet you know my answer. It depends. 🤨 Here’s an outline of what it depends on, which gives you clues to making it work sooner than later.

Two young girls looking under rocks just for the heck of it, exploring.

Don’t share your new career or business ideas…. at first.

New career or business ideas are exciting, so part of you wants to share them, and another part might be nervous to share. It’s not just the introverted part of you that’s nervous. It’s also wisdom to slow down here. These are tender sprouts that deserve time and space. I’ve seen sharing turn into stuckness.
I’ve got cautions and tips for who, when, how to share.

Handwritten doodle saying: Everything you need you have! There is no lack. With hearts, leaves and smiley face.

Stop looking for new ways to grow your solopreneur business. YOUR way is right in front of you.

Consider NOT looking for a new way to grow your business. You don’t just need a new trick. Instead, study your own bright spots for what works and what you enjoy, and double down on that. I’ve got examples, some ways to apply the concept in your case, and answers to those doubts.

This concept is especially important for the people I work with—introverts and highly sensitive people (HSPs), like myself—because the most typical marketing advice is not made for how we naturally do things.

Image of people in silhouette making hearts with their hands. With text overlay: You'll feel right at home with your people. ValNelson.com

You Belong: Why an HSP or Introvert Support Group Makes Such a Difference

If you’ve been trying to make career decisions or navigate life as a highly sensitive person (HSP) or introvert, it can kick up thoughts like “I just don’t fit anywhere.” That’s why finding an HSP support group or introvert support group—especially one with a steady leader who gets it firsthand—can be such a relief and smooth the way for your progress.

I know because that’s how it has worked for me, and for the people in the groups I lead. I have wonderful people in my life, but when I’m around my sensitive soul people, it fills a particular need in my core. I know it’s a critical piece of why I’m as fulfilled and at ease as a sensitive soul.

In this post, I’ve got success stories, ways an Introvert or HSP group is different, and some possible groups to check out. Including groups for solo entrepreneurs or those considering that path.