Struggling to Get Family Support for Your Business? Here’s What to Do

I get it—you're trying to build something that benefits not only yourself but your family too. That’s an incredibly selfless goal, and it must be frustrating when they’re not fully on board.

It sounds like you’re motivated by a bigger purpose—wanting to give them financial security, peace of mind, or just a better life. So, if they’re not seeing that vision right now, here are a few approaches that might help get them more involved.

1. Make Them Part of the Story

Sometimes when people don’t feel directly connected to something, it’s hard for them to invest emotionally in it. Try to share the “why” behind your business with them more deeply. Let them know that you didn’t just build it for yourself but specifically to create a better future for them. Maybe bring them into the journey by involving them in the planning or decision-making, even in small ways.

You could say something like:

"I really built this business with all of us in mind. I want it to be something we can all benefit from—whether it’s job security, financial freedom, or just peace of mind."

2. Give Them a Role or Responsibility

Even if they’re not super hands-on in the business, it might help to give them something to do, even if it's a small task that fits their interests or skills. Think about what would make the biggest difference in getting them involved? Is there a particular family member you’re struggling with more, or is it a general thing across the board?

Maybe they can help with something that connects to their strengths—like social media, organizing, or even just being a sounding board when you have ideas. When they have a stake in it, they might start to feel more involved and invested.

For example:

“I could really use your help with [specific task]. I think it’d really help the business grow and make it easier for me to focus on other things.”

3. Highlight the Benefits for Them

If you’re able to show them exactly how your business is helping them, it could shift their mindset. Sometimes people don’t see the tangible benefits right away, especially if they’re focused on what’s familiar or traditional (like a 9-to-5 job). Showing them how the business is helping to build security or create opportunities for them might make it feel more “real” to them.

You could try something like:

“This business is designed to give us more freedom and stability. By supporting it, we all stand to gain from its growth, whether that’s more family time or financial freedom down the line.”

4. Be Transparent About the Challenges

It might also help to be open about the ups and downs of building a business. Sometimes families may hold back support because they don’t understand the level of difficulty involved or think it’s all easy. If they see how much hard work, sacrifice, and long-term planning you’ve put in, they may understand that your commitment to them is serious.

You might say:

“I know this business is a big leap, and it’s not always easy, but I’ve been working really hard to make it something that will benefit all of us. I just need your support to make it happen.”

5. Create a Vision for the Future

Help them see the end game. Share the long-term plan and how the business will eventually help everyone. Sometimes people just need to know that there’s a light at the end of the tunnel and that their support now will pay off down the line. Show them the potential of the business in terms of family benefits—whether it’s financial growth, new opportunities, or even just the sense of having a legacy.

Maybe something like:

“In the future, I’d love for this business to provide a solid foundation for all of us. It’s not just about me. It’s about making sure we all have a secure future together.”

6. Be Patient & Keep Inviting Them In

It’s awesome that you’re thinking about them and wanting them to be part of your success. Not everyone sees the vision overnight, especially if they’ve been used to a different path. Keep inviting them in at a pace they’re comfortable with, and don’t give up on showing them that the business is a way to bring the family together, rather than divide it. Your passion will speak for itself over time. You don’t have to build alone. Together Hub makes it easier to bring your family into the journey. Create a private group, assign roles, and share your vision in one organized space, so everyone feels included and aligned.

👉 Explore the Together Hub Family Groups Page here.