Creating a Support System: Why Mentorship is a Game-Changer for Female Entrepreneurs
Let’s get real for a sec: being a female entrepreneur or a solopreneur is HARD. Between juggling all the roles, navigating challenges, and dealing with self-doubt, it can feel like you’re constantly running a marathon—without a map.
But guess what? You don’t have to do it alone.
One of the most powerful things you can do for your business and your mindset is to find yourself a mentor.
Yep, you heard me right—a mentor can be a total game-changer for your entrepreneurial journey. But why is mentorship so crucial? And how do you find the right one? Let’s break it down.
And just to show you how much mentorship has transformed my own journey, I have to give a huge shoutout to two incredible women who’ve been invaluable to me: Mariah Althoff and Paige Brunton.
I took Mariah's Ditch the Degree Design School, where I learned everything about graphic design. It was a total game-changer for me—and I’m not just talking about the skills I gained. Mariah’s 1:1 freelance coaching helped me carve my path, and she’s always down to answer a question or cheer me on. Her support has been essential, and I still stay in touch with her to this day.
Then, there’s Paige. I’m one of her Square Secrets + Square Business students, where I learned everything I know about Squarespace website design and running a web design business. The community she’s built of current and former students helps me daily, and her monthly Q&A calls are like a goldmine of assistance and information. Paige, her team, and the community they have built have been there every step of the way as I’ve leveled up my business, and I’m incredibly grateful for everything I’ve learned from them.
1. Mentorship Gives You Guidance (Without the Guessing)
As entrepreneurs, we’re constantly making decisions—big ones, small ones, and a lot of them! Sometimes it feels like we’re flying by the seat of our pants, figuring things out as we go. (I’ve definitely been there!) But having a mentor means you don’t have to guess your way through every challenge.
Why it matters: A mentor has walked the road you’re on, and they know what works (and what doesn’t). They can offer advice, share their experiences, and give you insight that can save you time, money, and stress. Whether it’s navigating a tricky situation, building a solid business strategy, or simply getting through those days when you feel like giving up, having someone to guide you makes all the difference.
Pro Tip: Don’t hesitate to lean on your mentor when you’re facing a tough decision. They’ve been through it all and can help you navigate with confidence.
2. Accountability: Because You Deserve to Be Your Best Self
Running a business can sometimes feel like you’re in a bubble, constantly dealing with the pressure to succeed. You set goals, but sometimes life gets in the way, and those goals fall to the wayside. A mentor can help keep you on track and hold you accountable—something we all need as busy entrepreneurs.
Why it matters: Accountability is one of the best tools for success. When you know someone is counting on you to follow through, you’re more likely to take action. Your mentor can help you set realistic goals, track your progress, and offer gentle (or not-so-gentle) nudges when needed.
Pro Tip: Create check-ins with your mentor so you can stay on track with your business goals. It’s like having a personal cheerleader—and a bit of a push when needed!
3. Mindset Shifts: Conquering Self-Doubt Like a Boss
Raise your hand if you’ve ever felt like you’re not "enough" or that you're winging it (I know I’ve had my moments). Imposter syndrome is real, especially for women in business. But guess what? A mentor can help you squash that self-doubt and step into your power.
Why it matters: Mentors can provide the emotional support and mindset shifts you need to grow. They’ve been there, they get it, and they’re ready to remind you of your worth when you forget. Whether it’s boosting your confidence, challenging negative thoughts, or giving you the tough love you need to break through, a mentor will help you build a mindset that matches your big dreams.
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to talk about your doubts with your mentor. They’ve been where you are and will help you shift your mindset so you can keep pushing forward.
4. Networking and Connections: Access to a World of Opportunities
One of the coolest perks of having a mentor is the access they can give you to their network. (Hello, opportunities!) Mentors usually have a wealth of connections they’ve built over the years, and they’re more than happy to introduce you to people who can help you grow your business.
Why it matters: Networking is crucial in any industry, and when you’re just starting out or trying to level up, having connections can open doors you didn’t even know existed. A mentor can connect you to people in their circle, whether it’s potential clients, collaborators, or even investors. It’s like getting a shortcut to the opportunities that might take you years to find on your own.
Pro Tip: Ask your mentor for introductions or recommendations. They likely know someone who can give you the exact help or opportunity you need to take your business to the next level.
5. Personal Growth: You Can’t Grow Your Business Without Growing Yourself
As a business owner, you’re constantly learning and evolving. But the personal growth that comes from being a mentor-mentee duo is HUGE. Not only will your business flourish, but you’ll also level up as a person.
Why it matters: Your mentor will help you navigate not only your business growth but also your personal growth. As you work on your business, you’ll also work on developing key leadership skills, managing stress, improving your communication, and becoming a stronger, more confident version of yourself.
Pro Tip: Don’t just look at mentorship as a business relationship—embrace it as a journey of personal development. The more you grow as a person, the more your business will thrive.
6. Confidence Boost: You’ve Got This, Girl
There’s something so empowering about having a mentor in your corner. It’s like having a cheerleader who believes in you when you’re struggling to believe in yourself. With a mentor’s support, you can build confidence, trust in your decisions, and feel more prepared to tackle whatever comes your way.
Why it matters: Having someone who truly has your back—who believes in your potential—is a game-changer. When your mentor reminds you of how far you’ve come and how much you’re capable of, it’ll fuel your fire to keep going. With that confidence, you’ll take bigger risks, make bolder decisions, and show up as the CEO you are.
Pro Tip: Whenever you’re feeling doubtful or stuck, turn to your mentor. They’ll remind you of the strength and resilience you already have inside you!
7. Fresh Perspective: Get Out of Your Head
Sometimes, as entrepreneurs, we get so wrapped up in our own ideas that we can’t see the bigger picture. That’s where your mentor comes in. A mentor brings a fresh perspective to the table and helps you think outside the box.
Why it matters: A mentor isn’t in your day-to-day grind, so they can offer a new perspective and help you see things you might have missed. They might challenge your assumptions, provide new ideas, or offer solutions that hadn’t crossed your mind. It’s like having a trusted advisor who can help you move past mental roadblocks.
Pro Tip: When you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, ask your mentor for their perspective. Sometimes all it takes is one piece of advice to shift your thinking and get you back on track.
Final Thoughts: The Power of Mentorship
Mentorship is one of the most valuable things you can invest in as a female entrepreneur. It’s not just about business advice—it’s about personal growth, accountability, confidence, and the support you need to build a brand that stands the test of time.
If you don’t have a mentor yet, it’s time to start looking. Trust me, the right mentor can elevate you, your business, and your mindset in ways you never thought possible.
A big thank you to my own mentors—Mariah Althoff for always pushing me to think bigger and for teaching me the importance of strategic growth, and Paige Brunton and team for showing me how to build a website that not only looks beautiful but also serves my clients in a way that truly converts. You both inspire me every day!
Ready to start building your support system?
I am ready to be your biggest cheerleader, business bestie, and confidante!
Let’s chat and see how I can best support you to grow the business of your dreams.