The Power of Belonging: What It Feels Like to Find ‘Your People’ in Business

Running your own business can feel a bit lonely. You’re the one making the decisions, solving the problems, keeping the wheels turning, and some days, it feels like you’re doing it all on your own. That’s when finding the right network becomes the best move you’ll ever make. 

 

When you find your people - the ones who share your values, your experiences and understand all the ups and downs of being behind the wheel of your own business – it changes your whole outlook. 

 

It’s not just about having people to chat to over coffee (although that’s lovely too). It’s about being part of a community that lifts you up, shares your wins, and reminds you that you’re not the only one trying to figure it all out. 

 

After running my own businesses since 2011, I know the power of that sense of belonging – it’s real. It gives you confidence, opens doors, and reminds you that you’re part of something bigger than your business… 

I’ve seen it happen so many times at our meetings: someone new walks in, unsure of what to expect, and within minutes they’re laughing with another business owner who’s been exactly where they are. That sense of “Ah, it’s not just me!” is really powerful. 

 

When you’re surrounded by people who have been where you are, and know how it feels, you start to feel more confident in what you do. You realise your challenges aren’t unusual, and your wins are worth celebrating – and there are people around you who’d love to celebrate them too. 

 

Strong communities build the confidence of their individual members over time as well,.When you feel more confident, you start to show up differently - in meetings, online, even in how you talk about your business in those dreaded 60-second pitches! 

 

When you find a space where you belong, you settle. That sense of needing to compete with others eases away, and so many exciting collaborations become possible. Instead of seeing other business owners as rivals, you begin to see them as allies, potential partners, and even future friends. 

 

That’s the magic of the right networking environment. It gives you a safe space to share, brainstorm, and connect. So often, those connections grow into partnerships that help both businesses thrive. 

 

Motivation really isn’t easy when you’re your own boss. There are days when you question everything, when plans don’t quite work out, or when you’re just tired. 

 

That’s where community comes in. Being part of a network that genuinely supports you helps you keep going. It’s the check-in message, the “You’ve got this!” pep talk, or the shared laughter after a tough week. 

 

Belonging gives you energy. It reminds you of your purpose, and it helps you keep perspective when things get tricky. 

 

Belonging doesn’t happen by accident. It comes from choosing the right network - the ones that make you feel comfortable, understood, and valued. 

 

Look for networking events where the atmosphere is friendly, not forced; where people listen as much as they talk; and where the focus is on connection, not competition between members. 

 

When you walk into a room that makes you feel relaxed and alongside like-minded people who share your values, you’ll notice the difference straight away. The conversations flow, the ideas spark, and you leave feeling inspired instead of drained. 

 

So, if you’ve been feeling a little isolated or unsure lately, maybe it’s time to find your people - the ones who cheer you on, share your journey, and help you grow in ways you didn’t expect – and I’d love to show you that power in action at a Busy Networking or Busy Women Networking meeting. Come along, grab a cuppa, and see what can happen when you’re surrounded by your people.