Are Solopreneurs Happier?

Things heated up in one of my entrepreneurship classes when a student threw out a bold question: “Is running a business solo basically the same as living single?” The room instantly buzzed. Some students eagerly argued that both give you ultimate freedom. No compromises, no answering to anyone—you’re fully in control.

But not everyone agreed. “Sure, it sounds great,” one student countered, “but doing everything alone can get heavy. The loneliness is real, and the pressure? Even more real.” Heads nodded as students explored the complexities of solo life, whether in business or relationships.

Some argued that being single allows for personal growth. “When you’re not constantly negotiating with someone else’s needs, you learn so much about yourself,” one said. “It’s the same with solopreneurship—you build something entirely your way.” Others weren’t convinced.

As I listened to this debate, the parallels were clear. Solopreneurship and single life both offer freedom and self-discovery, but they also come with challenges that can impact mental health, relationships, and overall satisfaction.

What Is a Solopreneur?

A solopreneur runs their business entirely on their own. They handle every aspect—from marketing to finances to operations—while enjoying the flexibility of being their own boss. It’s a lifestyle with both highs and lows, and happiness often depends on how you navigate these realities.

Influencers are prime examples of modern solopreneurs. With the rise of social media, many have built personal brands and businesses single-handedly. They produce content, engage with followers, negotiate brand deals, handle marketing, and manage finances—all without a team behind them. Their hustle showcases the perks and pressures of solopreneurship like creative control, flexible schedules, and the reality of balancing multiple roles.

This lifestyle sounds glamorous, but many influencers have opened up about its darker side. For instance, YouTuber Casey Neistat has candidly discussed burnout, admitting that the constant pressure to produce content and maintain relevance can be exhausting. Similarly, Zoë Sugg, known as Zoella, has spoken about the toll that social media work takes on mental health, describing the intense pressure of being a one-person brand and how it can lead to anxiety and burnout.

Freedom and Self-Discovery

Much like influencers, solopreneurs in other fields enjoy the perks of calling the shots. They can build their businesses around their values, vision, and lifestyle without compromise. Every success feels like a personal victory because it’s a direct result of their own efforts.

Then there’s the freedom to design your schedule. Want to start work at 10 a.m. and take a midday break? Go for it. This flexibility is a significant draw. Research suggests that autonomy and flexibility in work can significantly boost job satisfaction and overall well-being (Deci & Ryan, 2000). Influencers often showcase this, blending work and personal life in ways that suit their creative rhythms.

Solopreneurship also fosters personal growth. Managing every aspect of a business means constantly learning new skills, navigating challenges, and pushing beyond comfort zones. Just as self-discovery can come from living independently, solopreneurs and influencers alike build confidence and take pride in their unique accomplishments.

The Not-So-Glamorous Side

But just like single life, solopreneurship has its challenges. One of the biggest is isolation. Without a team to bounce ideas off, celebrate victories with, or help troubleshoot setbacks, solopreneurs can feel like they’re operating in a vacuum. Research shows that social isolation can negatively affect mental health, increasing stress and decreasing well-being (Cacioppo & Cacioppo, 2018). Even the most independent individuals need connection and support.

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This isolation can spill over into personal relationships. Solopreneurs, much like influencers, can become so consumed by their business that personal time with loved ones gets pushed aside. This can strain friendships and romantic relationships, leading to misunderstandings or feelings of neglect.

Another downside is the reality of “doing it all.” Solopreneurs wear every hat—they’re the visionary, accountant, marketer, and customer service rep. Influencers face similar challenges, balancing content creation, audience engagement, brand negotiations, and self-promotion.

Finding the Sweet Spot

So, are solopreneurs happier? The answer lies in balance. Solopreneurship can bring immense satisfaction through autonomy and creativity, just as influencers often experience. However, it requires managing isolation, workload, and personal relationships. By acknowledging these challenges and taking proactive steps to address them, solopreneurs can build a business that supports their well-being.

This experience mirrors being single. The joy of independence is real, but so are the moments of loneliness and self-doubt. Happiness in solopreneurship, much like in single life, means building a support network, setting routines, and prioritizing self-care. It involves nurturing relationships and creating a fulfilling life that works for you.

Crafting Your Own Journey

The beauty of solopreneurship is that it’s customizable. You can design a business and lifestyle that fits your unique needs, blending work with passions, connections, and growth. Building a network—whether through other business owners, friends, mentors, or online communities—can transform the experience from one of isolation to one of support and collaboration. Influencers, despite working solo, often cultivate online communities and collaborate with fellow creators to combat isolation and burnout.

Solopreneurship, like single life, is a mix of independence, self-discovery, and responsibility. There will overwhelming moments and times when you need support, but there will also be triumphs and deep satisfaction. By balancing optimism with realism, building a network, and focusing on well-being, solopreneurs can create a business and life that bring genuine happiness.

In the end, solopreneur happiness is about embracing both the freedom and the challenges. It’s about viewing each hurdle as a growth opportunity and each success as a reason to celebrate. With the right mindset and support, solopreneurs can experience the thrill of independence and the strength of a community.