Deciding whether to launch your business on your own or partner with a co-founder is a choice many aspiring entrepreneurs face early on. This decision can influence your daily work life, long-term success, and overall approach to building your venture. Let’s take a closer look at both options, weigh the pros and cons, and offer some practical advice to help you choose the best path for your journey.

Going it alone comes with a mix of excitement and challenge. Imagine the freedom of setting your own schedule, making all the decisions, and charting a course exactly as you envision. There’s no need to compromise or negotiate—every choice is entirely yours. However, that same freedom means handling every aspect of your business by yourself, from operations and marketing to finance and customer service. As a solo entrepreneur, you bear the weight of all responsibilities, and sometimes you might wish you had another perspective to support you through tough challenges.

On the other hand, partnering with a co-founder can bring a refreshing mix of skills and ideas to your venture. A co-founder might complement your strengths and fill in the gaps where you’re less experienced. For example, if you’re great at devising a visionary product but less confident in managing day-to-day operations, a partner with execution prowess can be the ideal match. Beyond skills, sharing both successes and setbacks with someone equally invested can provide emotional support and improve overall accountability. Working with a co-founder creates a natural check-and-balance system that might drive both of you to stay focused and maintain high standards.

One of the key benefits of a partnership is built-in accountability. With a trusted partner, you always have someone to share your progress with, challenge your ideas, and offer a reality check when needed. That said, this accountability can quickly become a source of conflict if your visions or values significantly diverge. It’s important, therefore, to ensure that both partners align on goals, communication styles, and long-term objectives.

It’s worth emphasizing that seeking collaboration is not a sign of weakness but rather a mature acknowledgment of your strengths and limitations. Many successful companies have thrived by merging complementary talents. Take, for instance, Steve Jobs and Steve Wozniak—an iconic pairing that shows how collaboration can propel a business beyond what one founder might achieve alone.

In addition to skills and expertise, consider the emotional and psychological aspects of entrepreneurship. The journey is often a roller coaster of highs and lows, and having a co-founder to share the ride can make a significant difference. If you find energy and inspiration in bouncing ideas off someone else, then having a partner might be the better choice. Yet, it’s important to note that not all partnerships result in positive momentum. Miscommunication, misaligned goals, and personality clashes can all derail even the best of collaborations.

Beyond emotional support, the partnership model can help mitigate financial risk. With a co-founder, you might find it easier to attract investors who appreciate the strengths that a diverse team offers. However, clear discussions about equity, roles, and expectations from the beginning are essential to preventing future misunderstandings.

For some entrepreneurs, the appeal of going solo lies in maintaining complete creative control. Many groundbreaking companies have been built by those who preferred to work independently. If you are highly self-reliant and versatile enough to manage multiple roles, solo entrepreneurship might suit you well. In this case, building a network of mentors or advisors can help fill the gaps that a co-founder might naturally cover.

As you weigh your decision, consider the specific challenges your business might face. If your idea is heavily technical but you’re uncertain about reaching your target market, a partner skilled in customer acquisition could be invaluable. Conversely, if your project is deeply personal or creatively driven, maintaining sole control might protect your original vision.

If you’re still unsure, consider a trial partnership. Many entrepreneurs meet potential co-founders at networking events, in co-working spaces, or through online communities focused on startups. Collaborating on a small project initially can provide valuable insights into how well you work together before making a long-term commitment.

Alternatively, if you decide on the solo route, building a strong support system—whether through mentors, advisors, or industry peers—can help you navigate the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Resources like those offered by the U.S. Small Business Administration can offer practical advice on managing operations and financial uncertainties, regardless of the path you choose.

So, should you start a business alone or with a co-founder? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. It depends on your personal style, your business model, and your long-term vision. If you value independence and are confident in managing a wide range of tasks, going solo might be right for you. If you thrive on collaboration and crave the benefits of combined expertise and shared risk, finding a co-founder could be the key to your success.

Ultimately, the journey to entrepreneurship is as unique as the person taking it on. Whether you decide to fly solo or partner up, aligning your choice with your strengths, work style, and vision is what matters most. Trust your instincts, do your homework, and prepare for an exciting journey ahead.