Life Lessons Learned in 2023
Half way through the year, I’ve learned some new lessons in business and life.
In the rush of life, it is easy to miss things that happen around us. In the first six months of this year, I have seen themes develop — lessons for me and my circle that can help us in life and in business.
In this article and the next one, I have tried to pull together these lessons with a hope that all can benefit, at least a little.
1. Look for the dog that is not barking.
Image from Matthew Fassnacht from Unsplash
(Do I need a spoiler alert for a story that is 100 years old?) Pay attention to what is missing or unusual. Sometimes, the absence of something can reveal important information. In business, this means identifying trends, customer needs, or market gaps that others may overlook. Entrepreneurs who are observant and perceptive can spot opportunities that others miss. By looking beyond the obvious and questioning the status quo, they can uncover hidden potentials and find innovative solutions. Don’t just focus on what’s happening, but also on what’s not happening. This way, you can stay ahead of the curve and seize valuable opportunities for growth and success.
2. The Gell-Mann effect is real.
I am frequently amazed when people fail to ask questions. Question everything and don’t take information at face value. Entrepreneurs must be critical thinkers and skeptical of what they hear or read. Just because something is widely accepted doesn’t mean it’s true. Dig deeper, verify facts, and seek different perspectives. The Gell-Mann effect reminds all of us (but especially entrepreneurs) to be cautious about the accuracy of information, especially in a world filled with misinformation and biases. By challenging assumptions and conducting thorough research, entrepreneurs can make more informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes. Don’t be easily swayed. Question, investigate, and discover the truth for yourself.
3. People aren’t listening, and that’s ok.
Photo from Ian Barsby on Unsplash
In life, we all should understand that not everyone will pay attention or agree with your ideas. Instead of getting discouraged, use this as an opportunity to refine your message. Find new ways to communicate and connect with your audience. Adapt your approach and make your message more compelling. By persevering and staying true to your vision, you can attract those who resonate with your message and build a loyal following. Remember, it’s not about convincing everyone, but about reaching the right people who will support your venture and help it thrive.
4. You need the strong links, but you need the weak links too.
In business, it’s important to cultivate a diverse network of connections. Strong links represent your close relationships and trusted partners. They provide support, guidance, and collaboration. However, too often people overlook the weak links, those with whom you have weaker connections. Weak links bring new perspectives, fresh ideas, and opportunities from outside your immediate circle. They introduce you to different industries, markets, and networks. Embrace the weak links and nurture those relationships. Looking back on my career, it is common for those weaker links to create new business. Expanding your network, you increase your chances of discovering unique opportunities and gaining valuable insights that can propel your business forward.
5. The real world is unfiltered and better.
In the last year, there has been a move to create a virtual world, but that’s not always the optimal solution. Embrace the rawness and authenticity of the real world. In business, it’s easy to get caught up in polished presentations and idealized scenarios. However, true success lies in facing reality head-on. Embrace the challenges, setbacks, and imperfections that come your way. They provide opportunities for growth and learning. By acknowledging the real world as it is, entrepreneurs can make more informed decisions and adapt quickly to changing circumstances. Don’t shy away from the unfiltered truth. Embrace it, learn from it, and use it to create a stronger, more resilient business.
In all, these lessons leave me feeling optimistic. The world is full of options and opportunities for those who are looking up and not just looking down. That said, this is only half of the list. There is more to come in my next article.
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