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Work. Better.

Career Pivots

Solopreneurship doesn’t have to be a solo operation

The myth of the 1-person business

Anna Burgess Yang's avatar
Anna Burgess Yang
Jan 18, 2026
∙ Paid
Illustration of a modern toolbox filled with symbolic tools
Image created via Midjourney

Most people think of solopreneurs as a one-person machine. The solopreneur (according to social media…) sends invoices, juggles client calls, manages marketing campaigns, and troubleshoots their own website — all before lunch. It’s a compelling narrative because it celebrates endless hustle and grit.

But it’s also a myth. Solopreneurship simply means you make the business decisions. You don’t have to consult anyone else or wait for approval. It doesn’t mean you’re the only person doing the work.

Most solopreneurs eventually bring in support (including me, in my solo business). Hiring help doesn’t mean you’re “no longer a real solopreneur.” It’s a sign that your business is growing. You recognize the value of your time or the limitations of your skillset.

Smart solopreneurs hire help as an investment. Outsourcing work or projects can expand your bandwidth while still allowing you to maintain full control over the direction of your business.

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