As a solopreneur, the journey of entrepreneurship can often feel isolating. With no one  to bounce ideas off or share the weight of decision-making, the path to success may seem steep and fraught with uncertainties. Enter the concept of the Mastermind Group.
 
First popularized by Napoleon Hill in his seminal book "Think and Grow Rich," a mastermind group is not just any ordinary networking group. It is a carefully selected assembly of like-minded individuals who meet regularly to tap into collective brainpower. Through these meetings, members brainstorm, share knowledge, provide mutual support, and most importantly, hold each other accountable to their goals.
 
The Power of Collective Wisdom
 
The idea behind a mastermind group is simple yet profound. When multiple minds collaborate, the collective intelligence generated surpasses what any one individual could achieve. As Hill stated, "No two minds ever come together without, thereby, creating a third, invisible, intangible force which may be likened to a third mind." This 'third mind' is the magic of mastermind groups – it is the birthplace of innovative ideas and fresh perspectives.
 
Why Solopreneurs Need Mastermind Groups
 
For solopreneurs, these groups can provide a lifeline for several reasons:
 
Networking Opportunities: Mastermind groups can introduce you to individuals outside your usual circle, paving the way for collaborations and partnerships.
 
Accountability: Being held accountable by a group can provide the push needed to stay on track and prioritize your goals, ensuring you don’t lose focus in the daily grind.
 
Shared Knowledge: As the saying goes, "two heads are better than one." With multiple experts in the room, you can get insights into various areas of business without the need to hire multiple consultants.
 
Emotional Support: Entrepreneurship has its highs and lows. Having a trusted group that understands and shares your journey can provide essential emotional support during challenging times.
 
Fresh Perspectives: Presenting your challenges to a group often results in creative solutions you might never have considered on your own.
 
Virtual or Physical – The Choice is Yours
 
With the advancement of technology, mastermind groups no longer need to be confined to a physical space. Virtual masterminds are on the rise, breaking geographical barriers and bringing together global talents. Whether you prefer face-to-face interactions or virtual brainstorming sessions, the essence remains: harnessing collective intelligence.
 

As a solopreneur, embracing the concept of a mastermind group can be a game-changer. It's not just about networking; it’s about building a community of trusted advisors and allies who want to see you succeed. Remember, the journey of entrepreneurship doesn't have to be a solo endeavor. With the right group by your side, the possibilities are boundless.
 

​A lot of people work in the USA at some point in their careers and while there, they contribute to a pension or 401K.

Then when it's time to retire in Canada the question is "How to bring the money here?"

I have found that the best article on the topic can be found HERE. Then you just have to find a financial advisor who is willing and able to help you through the process!!

​Good luck!

Lately, for some reason, I have been receiving questions about Canadian /American tax and retirement questions. For example: 

Have you ever worked in the US for a few years and then moved back home to settle down and create a life? Maybe you were a grad student and had a job while studying or maybe you worked in hi-tech for a couple of years in sunny California. Now it is time to retire and you are thinking, "Hmmm. I paid into US Social Security when I worked there. Maybe I can get some money from them as well as CPP."

Before you get too excited, check out the Social Security Administration's website to see if you qualify.  Here is how it works:

When you work and pay Social Security taxes, you earn “credits” toward Social Security benefits. The number of credits you need to get retirement benefits depends on when you were born. If you were born in 1929 or later, you need 40 credits (usually, this is 10 years of work). If you stop working before you have enough credits to qualify for benefits, the credits will remain on your Social Security record. If you return to work later, more credits may be added. We can’t pay any retirement benefits until you have 40 credits. https://www.ssa.gov/benefits/retirement/learn.html#h1

This website is very good and will help you make decisions and learn more about your retirement benefits.