Life Lessons Learned in 2023, part 2
This is the second of two articles sharing some thoughts and insights I have learned in the first six months of this year.
In an earlier article, I set forth five things I have learned this year while doing traveling through the world of small business. The halfway mark of 2023 gives all of us an opportunity to consider, revisit, and refresh their annual plans — even if those plans did not exist in the first place. The ultimate goal is to set the stage for a successful remainder of 2023. So let’s pick up where we left off.
6. Lead with love. Lead with respect.
It should be obvious but it needs to be said: treat others with dignity and kindness. Respect their opinions, ideas, and experiences. When you lead with respect, you create a positive work environment. Respect fosters trust and cooperation among team members. It encourages open communication and collaboration. Respectful leaders listen attentively and value everyone’s contributions. They acknowledge the efforts and achievements of their employees. Respectful leaders empower their team members, allowing them to grow and excel. They create a culture of inclusivity and fairness, where everyone feels valued and appreciated. Too often, people do not consider where other people are in their own world. Don’t be one of those people.
7. Your life and your friends have seasons, and that’s ok too.
Understand that life goes through different phases, just like the changing seasons. Friendships may evolve or drift apart, and that’s natural. In today’s over-connected world, it is possible to stay connected with your third grad teacher — and many of us do — but in the business world, that is not necessarily ideal. As an entrepreneur, embrace these transitions and cherish the connections you have in each season. Nurture relationships during the vibrant seasons and appreciate the memories created. When friendships naturally shift or fade, embrace the new opportunities that come your way. Recognize that people and circumstances change, and that’s okay. Embrace the seasons of life, and surround yourself with those who uplift and support you on your entrepreneurial journey.
8. You REALLY are the average of the five people you spend the most time with.
Choose your inner circle wisely. Surround yourself with individuals who inspire, motivate, and challenge you. And you should try to be that person for other people. If we ever meet in person, you will notice that I ask a lot of questions. At my core, I feel like I owe that to my friends, family, and others around me. It makes all of us better. In your own life, seek out those who possess qualities you admire and aspire to emulate. By surrounding yourself with positive influences, you raise your own standards and push yourself to achieve greater success. Together, you can achieve extraordinary things.
9. When people tell you that they don’t want to see you, believe them.
This is a related point. As an entrepreneur, it’s important to recognize that not everyone will support or align with your vision. If you are lucky, they will tell you directly, but often you will just have to divine it. Instead of trying to win over those who are disinterested or dismissive, focus on building relationships with those who believe in your goals. Surround yourself with supporters who encourage your growth and success. Luckily, the number of people in your corner does not have to be large. By accepting that not everyone will be on board, you can redirect your energy toward nurturing connections and pursuing more meaningful opportunities.
10. Write your story, or someone else will.
Simple, take control of your narrative or someone else will. People love a story and nature abhors a vacuum. That can be a deadly combination if you are focused elsewhere. As an entrepreneur, it’s essential to be the author of your own story. Don’t let others dictate your journey. Communicate your vision and values clearly. By actively shaping your narrative, you can inspire others, attract opportunities, and build a strong personal brand. Share your successes, failures, and lessons learned. Be intentional in crafting your story, and remember that you have the power to create a narrative that resonates and leaves a lasting impact.
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