EF News
By Elaine Stroud, CEO
The UK economy is limping its way back to growth — just about. The latest figures tell us we’re seeing movement in the right direction, but at a pace that feels frustratingly slow. And let’s be honest, for entrepreneurs, that frustration can turn into a sense of isolation and pressure. You carry the weight of your business, your team and your ambitions. It’s a lot.
But here’s the reality: those who surround themselves with the right people will navigate 2025 far more successfully than those who try to tough it out alone.
In 2023, researchers from Bath University studied the impact of loneliness on entrepreneurs. The findings weren’t surprising but were certainly sobering: business owners without strong support networks were more likely to feel helpless and isolated, and in turn, more likely to see their businesses fail.
Entrepreneurship can be lonely but it doesn’t have to be. Throughout our 20+ years of delivering inspirational events, we’ve seen that the entrepreneurs who thrive, innovate and push through tough times are those who intentionally build and nurture their networks. They understand that success isn’t just about hitting revenue targets or scaling their business; it’s also about surrounding themselves with people who inspire, challenge and uplift them.
I firmly believe that successful entrepreneurs don’t just have contacts; they have allies. They are the people who act as sounding boards and help you see the bigger picture when you’re in the thick of the ‘busyness’ of business. They’re the ones who remind you why you started in the first place, keeping your passion alive even when the going gets tough.
So take a moment. Write down the names of your ‘go-to’ people, those you turn to for advice, support or simply a dose of perspective. Then ask yourself: are these relationships strong? Do you nurture them? And crucially, are there any gaps in your network?
It’s easy to assume that your existing connections will always be there but relationships require effort. Make 2025 the year you actively strengthen them. Reach out, check in and be generous with your own support, because the more you invest in your network, the more resilient you’ll be when challenges arise.
