Loneliness in Entrepreneurship

Loneliness refers to “a complex set of feelings that occurs when intimate and social needs are not adequately met” and can be harmful to one´s physical and mental health (e.g., high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, dementia, anxiety, burnout). The detrimental effects of this emotional state have long been studied, and recent attention has turned to its occurrence and impact in the workplace. While recent studies have shed light on the negative consequences of loneliness for employees and leaders, loneliness in entrepreneurship remains an unexplored phenomenon. This knowledge gap is striking, as the uncertainties, risks, and high-pressure environment associated with venture creation will likely contribute to loneliness. Furthermore, unlike employees, entrepreneurs lack the same opportunities to form social connections in a traditional work environment, making them particularly susceptible.
This research program aims to uncover the critical yet overlooked issue of loneliness in entrepreneurship. Although entrepreneurship can be a path to personal fulfilment and success, it also comes with unique stressors that can lead to profound feelings of isolation. Such loneliness can have significant implications for entrepreneurs’ health, decision-making capabilities, and performance. The overall objective of this research is to offer robust, evidence-based insights into the distinctive nature of entrepreneurial loneliness (i.e., why and when do entrepreneurs experience loneliness?), and to develop targeted interventions that improve the well-being of entrepreneurs (i.e., how can entrepreneurs avoid or combat loneliness?), ultimately fostering healthier start-up ecosystems.
This research is closely aligned with the objectives of the URL grant, by advancing our understanding of well-being challenges and translating this knowledge into actionable interventions that benefit society, particularly the entrepreneurial community.