Come with me on an imaginary journey. You’re ready to step into a bustling room full of strangers at a networking event. The air is thick with chatter and expectation. If you’re an extrovert, your eyes light up, and you recognize a sea of new best friends. Meanwhile, the introverts’ hearts race as they desperately seek a familiar face or a quiet corner to gather their thoughts. Chances are, even if you’re an extrovert, you recognize those feelings of discomfort and doubt. (And yes, despite my widespread visibility, I often default to being an introvert in crowds.) Putting yourself in the spotlight can feel unnatural and uncomfortable. But as a solopreneur, you know visibility is crucial for your business success. Today’s exploration is about balancing the demands of being visible with your impulse to remain out of the spotlight. But before we go there, I have one request. First, I need your help.I’ve been writing this newsletter in many forms for several years. Some of you have been with me since the early days, while others have signed up in the last few weeks. Here’s my dilemma: Some of you joined when I was diving deep into visual frameworks. Others are here for design and visual communication. You may have joined recently based on the Solo Business Canvas. I know, this broad approach contradicts the idea that “growth comes from focused content.” But hey, I have many interests (probably like you). But it poses a dilemma: What should I share with you in SOLO? So, I’ve put together 3 questions to learn what may be most helpful to you and better understand you. It will take about 2 minutes, and I’m asking you to fill it out and share your thoughts. It will help me create content and resources you want, and avoid clogging your inbox with off-target material. ⭐️ As an incentive (aren’t those always nice?), I’m giving away 5 copies of Seth Godin’s new book, This Is Strategy, which comes out in late October, to SOLO readers who respond.
Click the button to share your thoughts. 3 questions, 2 minutes. I’ll wait right here. Thanks for helping me out. OK, back to navigating the spotlight. As we build our solo businesses, visibility seems like the key to success. But what if you’d prefer to work behind the scenes? As solopreneurs, our business success is closely tied to our personal brand. This presents a challenge when we prefer solitude to the spotlight. Introverts’ superpower in businessPsychologists say introversion focuses on internal thoughts and feelings rather than external stimulation. It’s important to note that introversion isn’t synonymous with shyness or social anxiety. In fact, introverted entrepreneurs possess unique strengths that can be leveraged for business success. Research by Adam Grant at Wharton found that introverts often outperform extroverts. Introverts excel in deep thinking, problem-solving, and forming meaningful one-on-one connections — all valuable business skills. The psychology of (not) standing outFor many introverts, being in the public eye can be daunting. This fear often stems from a combination of factors, including imposter syndrome – the feeling of not being as competent as others perceive you to be. Research in the International Journal of Behavioral Science found that up to 70% of people experience imposter syndrome at some point in their careers. However, solo business success often requires what psychologists call “selective extraversion” — being more extraverted when the situation requires it. The key is finding a balance that allows you to showcase your expertise without compromising your need for solitude. Ways introverted solopreneurs can shineLet's explore how you can leverage your introvert superpowers to make your solo business stand out. ✅ Leverage your strengths. ✅ Embrace asynchronous communication. ✅ Maximize content marketing. ✅ Master online networking. ✅ Practice controlled exposure. Your introvert-friendly action planWhen you’re ready to step out of the shadows and into the spotlight, here’s a roadmap to get you (quietly) started: 1️⃣ Explore your superpower(s). 2️⃣ Set tiny visibility goals. 3️⃣ Create a recharge ritual. Harnessing your quiet powerRemember, standing out doesn’t mean changing who you are. Your introversion is an asset, not a liability. Introverted solopreneurs excel in listening, analyzing, and providing thoughtful solutions. As Susan Cain, author of Quiet: The Power of Introverts in a World That Can’t Stop Talking, puts it: “There’s zero correlation between being the best talker and having the best ideas.” By harnessing your quiet power, you can create a thriving solo business that’s true to who you are — and define success on your own terms. ❤️ My favorite visual delightsHere are this week’s gems from around the Web for all types of visual thinkers and solopreneurs: ⌛️ How to Overcome the Urge to Quit 🧐 Putting Up Gates to Low-Paying Prospects 🎧 30 Best Design Podcasts Did you get your free Solo Business Canvas?If you haven’t downloaded your copy of this one-page, interactive visual framework to help you grow your solo business, what are you waiting for? The Solo Business Canvas is my labor of love, nearly a year in the making, to help solopreneurs sort out the key components of their business. It will help you:
After completing the Canvas, you’ll have an easy-to-follow roadmap for creating a successful solo company. Download your copy and put it to work in your business. Did you miss these?Catch up on some recent popular issues of SOLO you may have missed. ✅ 3 Strategic Questions to Transform Your Personal Brand ✅ Meet the Solo Business Canvas ✅ Credibility: Build It or Borrow It? ✅ Draw, Tell, and Sell with This Single-line Framework Want to check out other past issues? Visit the SOLO Newsletter archive. ❗️❗️ Oh, did you miss that link for the 3 questions to tell me your ideas? Here it is again. Thanks again for being a SOLO reader and coming along on this journey with me. See you next week, |
Are you looking to share your big ideas through visual thinking? The founder of the solopreneur movement helps you become a magnet for clients and opportunities through visual authority, personal branding, and frameworks. Delivered to your inbox every Tuesday morning. Just announced: the Solo Business Canvas!
Earlier this year, while developing the Solo Business Canvas project, I needed to integrate three complex software apps. I knew the desired results, but oh, how my brain hurt! I’d try something and it would work. Hurray! Then I’d add another element, and it failed. Try something else. Still not working. I repeated that one-step-forward-two-steps-back cycle many times. Some days, I threw up my hands and walked away. It’s a typical solopreneur situation, and I’m sure you can relate. We’re...
The seasons are changing! As the trees change color and drop their leaves, the air in the Midwest has a distinctive smell that brings memories of school, football, and crisp apples. Fall is my favorite time of year. Change has always been a big part of my solo business, too. Over the years, I’ve learned that I get bored quickly and chafe at routines. (Consistency comes in dead last on my 34 CliftonStrengths!) So, this week, instead of sharing a boatload of information, I’ve crafted three...
Welcome to the many solopreneurs who have joined us from around the world after downloading my new Solo Business Canvas. We’re glad you’re here! (Not sure what I’m talking about? No worries. Catch up here.) Hey, Reader 👋 Have you ever stumbled upon a website or social media profile and thought, “Wow, they’ve really got it together!” That’s the power of a cohesive visual brand. It tells your story, showcases your professionalism, and lets your personality shine through — all in a glance....