johfoster, This will be my long winded, serious reply. Please forgive me if in any way I offend you.
My Dogs keep me sane, and I am at the age where being alone, is something I almost prefer, That said here is some unsolicited advice. You can hire in, but, those folks are your employee's not your counselors, or friends, they may end being both, but, that is no reason to hire. I have been machining since 1978, in business since '85. I have been very lucky, and at times unlucky as hell. On my second wife, 2 great kids, two grandkids that I treasure. Here is the thing, if I wrote a letter to my younger self today, I would strongly recommend a certified life coach,to be more active in my community, and I believe I would seek out a 'therapist' that specialized in helping professionals deal with themselves. If you had ASKED my younger self about any of the 3, I would have laughed, called myself a pussy, and made fun of myself, because I was that ignorant. Being successful IS all about interacting with others, people buy from people, so having those 'social skills', and confidence to apply them is very important. Seek out a local venue that has a Dale Carnegie course, AND a toastmasters. BOTH will be well worth the time and effort. If you are already feeling alone, it wont be long before you get depressed, angry, and not fit to be around, even with the dogs. Trust me, I speak from experience. (I did say I was in my SECOND marriage)
One thing about work, we are all in a business, that, if God forbid, we suddenly took the dirt nap, some purchasing guy would reallocate our current order(s)to another shop, before we were cold. You MUST take time for yourself, no matter who might not like it.
Learn to golf, or shooting sports, or camping, or something for you and the family.
There is a young member on here, whom I give GREAT credit to, he bought some machines, started a home shop, realized it was not the life he wanted for him, and his family, so gave it up, took a job, and I THINK is much happier. Not saying that is a solution for you, but I AM saying he was very wise to analyze HIMSELF, and what he wanted from and what he wanted to contribute to his own life.
Last thought, your customers will push every boundary you set, be it price, delivery, scheduling, whatever. but I tell you this they do it, then they go home! Set your tolerance for boundaries, and stick with them, if you loose a job because you didn't stay till midnight and come back at 5am, so be it. I know you might 'need the money', or need the next job, but again, your health, both mental and physical, and family well being far outweigh the PERCEIVED profit from that job.
I WISH YOU NOTHING BUT GOOD TIMES, SUCCESs, AND A HAPPY FAMLY LIFE.
I live across the country from you, but if you ever need to chat, rather than yell at the dog, look me up.
Regards, Chris