27 Archetypes

Series: Behind the Smile

The Surviving Masked Loner

All the Masked Loners experience the same potential physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual challenges: “I hide behind my smile. It is an emotional struggle to get through the day. I’m not at all supported at home. The good, bad, and ugly is all on me.“

EXAMPLES OF WHAT THEY MAY BE EXPERIENCING

  • Exhaustion from carrying all responsibilities alone
  • Poor sleep due to constant stress
  • Headaches or tension in the body
  • Weakened immune system from prolonged stress
  • Lack of energy for physical activity
  • Overthinking and worrying about the future
  • Difficulty focusing on tasks
  • Self-doubt and questioning own capabilities
  • Struggle to prioritize personal needs
  • Feeling overwhelmed by the amount of responsibility
  • Feeling isolated and lonely
  • Suppressed emotions, leading to emotional numbness
  • Guilt for not showing vulnerability
  • Anger or frustration that goes unexpressed
  • Fear of breaking down emotionally
  • Disconnection from a sense of purpose
  • Lack of belief in receiving support from higher power
  • Feeling spiritually abandoned or forgotten
  • Difficulty in finding meaning in daily struggles
  • Doubting personal worth or value
There is an additional consideration for Surviving Masked Loner: Their business is hard, hard work to sustain.
Maintaining the business feels like a constant uphill battle, leading to frustration and self-doubt. The ongoing financial strain may lead to tough decisions about budgeting and spending, impacting the quality of life for them and their dependents. This pressure can result in feelings of inadequacy and worry about how to support their loved ones.

Empathy prompt

As you step into their shoes:

  1. What emotions are arising for you?
  2. Were you aware that a solo entrepreneur alongside you is experiencing these emotions?
  3. Are there circumstances in which you have felt or do feel the same?
  4. If you had a heartfelt message, what would it be? 
  5. If you could have an ongoing conversation, what topic would you choose?
  6. In which ways could your strengths enhance their wellness?
  7. Given your unique life experiences, are there potentially opportunities for you to partner or collaborate for the greatest good of all?