9/22/25: From Comfort Zone to Connection: How Women Thrive With the Right Network

Over the past few weeks, I’ve heard something over and over again from female clients and connections – “I want to  _______  but I don’t have anyone to go/to do it with.”  I remember a time when that was me…shying away from anything or anyplace where I didn’t have someone to lean on, to insulate and protect me from the discomfort of the unknown.  It is really hard to put yourself out there until you realize the positives that come from it.  That is why every time I’ve heard this 👆🏻 line lately, I extend a hand and offer to be that protection someone needs to step out of their comfort zone.  

The funny thing is, this is so commonplace in our personal lives, we don’t acknowledge that it is a huge part of our business as females, too.  Sometimes we shy away from starting a new business because it is unfamiliar, we don’t have a support system, or we are afraid of the unknown.  Once we are in the thick of it, business can be hard without someone to walk with.  So here is my question for you-if we are willing to reach out for a friend who needs our support, why don’t we reach out to women in business?  OR, if we are struggling, why don’t we take the initiative to find connections?

A while back I talked about the importance of community, and a network is sort of like that.  Community is your cheer section; your network is your collaboration circle.  These are the people who will celebrate your wins, show empathy and sympathy for your struggles, and share advice when we are stuck with where we are at. 

Women need a network!  The network doesn’t need to be HUGE, but it shouldn’t be limited to one or two people.  Keep in mind, networks, like communities, are built on mutual respect.  Do not build a network with the intention of “using” people.   You will want people who can experience the good, the bad, and the ugly for different situations.  

There are things you don’t want your network to be.  You do not want a network that only infuses negative.  The purpose of having a strong network is having people who will be honest and tell you when things aren’t working, but you don’t want someone who is going to bring you down.  On the flip side, you don’t want a network that only spews sunshine and daisies.  You need people who will celebrate the wins, BUT you also need a network that will keep it real and tell you when something needs to change.  

Now I challenge you!  Do you already have a network?  Is it a network of mutual support?  Do they celebrate your wins, but also acknowledge your struggles and work with you to improve?  If you already have a network, evaluate if it is solid or needs some changes.  If you don’t have a network, or the network can be stronger, go out and make changes.  It is time to put yourself and your business out there, meet people, and be open to possibilities. 

If you need help finding your network, I offer a FREE virtual cohort – I would love to have you join! 

If you are local to Jamestown, ND, myself and other female entrepreneurs, in collaboration with the North Dakota Women’s Business Center,  are now offering a FREE in person cohort called Strong Women Strong Connections.  It is the 2nd Tuesday of each month, 5:30-7:00pm at The Art Center.  We would love to have you join our growing community!