Theresa Pidcock Of zant On How To Successfully Ride The Emotional Highs & Lows Of Being An Entrepreneur

An Interview With Jake Frankel

Challenge Self-Limiting Beliefs: Resist falling for the hype, challenge self-limiting beliefs and catastrophic thinking. Acknowledge that circumstances in business evolve, and staying grounded helps you focus on what truly matters.

Being a founder, entrepreneur, or a business owner can have many exciting and thrilling moments. But it is also punctuated with periods of doubt, slump, and anxiety. So how does one successfully and healthily ride the highs and lows of Entrepreneurship? In this series, called “How To Successfully Ride The Emotional Highs & Lows Of Being An Entrepreneur” we are talking to successful entrepreneurs who can share stories from their experiences. I had the pleasure of interviewing Theresa Pidcock.

Theresa Pidcock is an executive coach with multiple certifications and a master’s degree in business dynamics, known for her passion for unlocking individual greatness. Her coaching philosophy centers on recognizing and harnessing the untapped potential within each person, emphasizing the power of emotions to achieve extraordinary results. With a commitment to leading through collaboration and a talent for solving complex problems, Theresa inspires clients to unleash their true potential and cultivate a winning mindset for personal and professional fulfillment.

Thank you so much for joining us in this interview series! Before we dive in, our readers would love to “get to know you” a bit better. Can you tell us a bit about your ‘backstory’ and how you got started?

I served as a regional vice president of sales, overseeing the West Coast division of a privately held advertising company in corporate America. While I enjoyed many aspects of the job, the toll on my well-being prompted me to explore ways to make the work more healing and humanizing. It was crucial for me to preserve the positive aspects I loved while reducing the stress inherent in that career. This journey ignited my passion for helping leaders and entrepreneurs grow their companies and improve their leadership skills.

What was the “Aha Moment” that led to the idea for your current company? Can you share that story with us?

The “Aha Moment” struck when I recognized that, beyond the realm of sales and advertising, I had consistently engaged in coaching, teaching, training, and strategizing with our teams, colleagues, and entrepreneurs throughout my entire tenure and leadership role. It dawned on me that these skills, when applied effectively, could serve as the foundation for a company dedicated to assisting leaders in navigating challenges with less stress and more success.

In your opinion, were you a natural born entrepreneur or did you develop that aptitude later on? Can you explain what you mean?

I first became aware of my leadership abilities early in my life when I received a leadership award in 6th grade. During science camp in the Redwood mountains, I received a leadership award. It was the first time I had been acknowledged for my leadership skills, and it was a significant moment because I had never seen myself in that light before. In the years afterward, I felt comfortable taking leadership roles and postions. I loved helping and serving others. While some may be natural-born leaders, I believe that leadership, similar to emotional intelligence, is something we learn and develop. It’s a continuous journey, similar to parenting, where theory meets reality.

Was there somebody in your life who inspired or helped you to start your journey with your business? Can you share a story with us?

As I grappled with the realization that I needed to transition from my corporate career due to immense stress impacting my well-being, I sought support and discovered an executive coach I had attended high school with. Her name was Alexis Robin, and she significantly influenced my journey. Her guidance centered around fostering inspiring, brave, and generous assumptions, urging me to peel back layers, face tough truths, and live authentically. Until that point in my life, I had been running on a metaphorical hamster wheel, reacting rather than living intentionally in many areas. Learning that to be the most effective coach, I needed to embody the principles I impart, marked the beginning of my transformative journey.

What do you think makes your company stand out? Can you share a story?

I think what sets my company apart is the combination of my numerous coaching certifications and my master’s degree in business dynamics. This diverse foundation enables me to navigate coaching ethically across various aspects. I firmly believe in practicing within my expertise, ethical conduct, and providing clients with the utmost service. When coupled with my work experience, my dedication to comprehensive education allows me to offer a distinctive and effective coaching experience.

You are a successful business leader. Which three character traits do you think were most instrumental to your success? Can you please share a story or example for each?

1. Resilience: In my corporate tenure in advertising sales, where our primary product was a yellow page directory, selling these directories in Silicon Valley’s tech environment posed considerable challenges. Despite the difficulty, I learned the importance of resilience. Understanding the value of our product in the market and persisting through obstacles contributed significantly to my resilience. This experience underscored the necessity of standing firm in the face of adversity and recognizing the product’s relevance within its unique context.
2. Empathy: Empathy emerges as a superpower in my leadership arsenal. Establishing profound connections with clients and discerning their emotions during interactions empowers me to provide meaningful support. The ability to grasp unspoken cues becomes a cornerstone in enhancing the client-coach relationship. For instance, being attuned to a client’s emotions during a call enables me to offer personalized assistance, fostering a deeper connection and understanding.
3. Interpersonal Skills: Interpersonal skills, encompassing leadership, communication, and emotional intelligence, prove indispensable in navigating unexpected challenges. A compelling example highlights the importance of these skills. Imagine addressing a team member’s apparent performance issue, only to discover it’s rooted in a personal struggle. The ability to pivot in the moment, guided by interpersonal skills and emotional intelligence, prompts a shift in focus. Recognizing that the individual needs support beyond the initial agenda showcases the human aspect of effective leadership.

Practicing these traits, whether individually or simultaneously, creates a powerful connection and bond. This connection is instrumental in fostering better relationships, both on a personal and leadership level. The resulting strength becomes a cornerstone for overcoming challenges and propelling us toward a more successful future.

Often leaders are asked to share the best advice they received. But let’s reverse the question. Can you share a story about advice you’ve received that you now wish you never followed?

In the early stages of my managerial career, I adhered to advice that forced me to terminate underperforming team members. The impact of this advice became evident when, after delivering the final paycheck to a young woman I had just let go, I discovered a thank-you card and a bottle of wine on my desk. In the card, she expressed gratitude for the support and mentorship she had received, acknowledging the challenges of my role. She also shared her phone number and said she looked up to me as someone she aspired to be.

This unexpected and poignant gesture made me realize there must be a more compassionate approach to such decisions. While acknowledging the necessity of making tough hiring and firing decisions at times, this experience prompted me to reassess my approach and consider the profound impact on individuals. Today, I advocate for more compassionate leadership and challenge directives that may be detrimental. In those early days as a new leader, I felt compelled to follow the instructions of my superiors, but this experience reshaped my perspective.

This empty bottle of wine and thank-you card from almost 20 years ago have not only been shared as examples in many trainings but also serve as constant reminders of that difficult moment and how one person’s feedback can significantly alter the way we lead and teach others to lead for decades to come.

Which tips would you recommend to your colleagues in your industry to help them create a work culture in which employees thrive and do not “burn out” or get overwhelmed?

It’s essential for entrepreneurs to clearly outline their vision while also prioritizing listening to their teams. The pitfall for many visionary entrepreneurs lies in frequent changes of direction, leading to ‘Organizational Whiplash’. This phenomenon occurs when leaders rapidly shift focus, causing confusion, burnout, and cultural issues among the team. While adaptability is important, excessive changes can overwhelm employees managing the intricate details of execution. The key is to establish a vision, actively engage with team feedback, and fully understand the implications of each decision. By doing this, leaders can add an extra layer of checks and balances, preventing burnout and fostering a thriving work culture.

What are the most common mistakes you have seen CEOs & founders make when they start a business? What can be done to avoid those errors?

A prevalent mistake I often observe among CEOs is the misconception that proficiency in one area equates to proficiency in all aspects of their business. This frequently leads to the error of wearing too many hats, resulting in burnout and a realization that excelling in one role doesn’t necessarily translate to expertise in others. For instance, being an excellent Web Developer or Event Planner doesn’t automatically make one a proficient bookkeeper for their company.

While recognizing the necessity to handle various tasks, especially in the initial stages, entrepreneurs sometimes fall into the trap of trying to master every aspect of their business. However, attempting to be a master of everything often results in being masters of nothing, hindering overall growth. Entrepreneurship involves a delicate balance where CEOs may feel compelled to personally oversee tasks like social media and finances, thinking they need to replicate exactly what they did to start the company.

This dilemma often arises from a desire for control, fear of spending money, or uncertainties around hiring processes. Whether due to a fear of hiring, a lack of knowledge in recruitment, or a general lack of trust in themselves, CEOs may find themselves stretched thin, leading to suboptimal outcomes. In such instances, it is crucial to reflect on one’s strengths and identify areas where personal expertise is most valuable.

To optimize efficiency and profitability, CEOs should consider what tasks could be effectively outsourced. For instance, if lead generation is a priority, exploring methods to achieve it independent of direct CEO involvement is key. Replicating oneself in areas where personal expertise may not lie could involve outsourcing tasks like copywriting, social media management, or bookkeeping.

While staying informed about the business’s operations is essential, effective leadership does not necessitate attempting to master every detail. Delegation becomes a critical aspect, and avoiding burnout is essential to remain effective in leadership roles.

Ok fantastic. Thank you for those excellent insights. Let’s now shift to the main focus of our interview about How to Successfully Ride The Emotional Highs & Lows Of Being An Entrepreneur. The journey of an entrepreneur is never easy, and is filled with challenges, failures, setbacks, as well as joys, thrills and celebrations. This might be intuitive, but I think it will be very useful to specifically articulate it. Can you describe to our readers why no matter how successful you are as an entrepreneur, you will always have fairly dramatic highs and lows? Particularly, can you help explain why this is different from someone with a “regular job”?

The journey of an entrepreneur is characterized by profound highs and lows, a dynamic that stems from the unique nature of building something from the ground up. Successful entrepreneurs often invest everything they have, and their identity becomes closely intertwined with the success or failure of their venture. Unlike those with regular jobs, entrepreneurs essentially build the plane as they fly, navigating uncertainties and financial challenges.

The experience of entrepreneurship is distinct in that it often lacks the structured environment and guaranteed paycheck found in conventional employment. This difference in risk and personal investment contributes to the intense emotional roller coaster that entrepreneurs frequently ride. The highs are exhilarating moments of success and affirmation that their vision is working. However, the next day might bring a crash, or a setback that prompts them to question the viability of their endeavor.

The entrepreneurial journey is often lonely and isolating, with individuals grappling with doubts about the chosen path. They face the challenge of being away from their families, who, despite their support, may not fully comprehend the demands, long hours, and unwavering commitment to a vision that may only be fully grasped by the entrepreneur. This yin and yang of highs and lows shapes the entrepreneurial experience in a way that is fundamentally different from the more predictable and less risky nature of a traditional job.

In contrast, a typical nine-to-five job, or the modern equivalent, provides a different kind of stability and a lower level of risk. The highs and lows in such a setting are generally less dramatic and don’t carry the same personal stakes as those experienced by entrepreneurs. The risk and the emotional investment inherent in entrepreneurship set it apart, making the journey inherently more intense and emotionally charged.

Do you feel comfortable sharing a story from your own experience about how you felt unusually high and excited as a result of your business? We would love to hear it.

The high moments in my entrepreneurial journey are not singular triumphs; rather, they are cumulative instances of shared victories. These highs materialize in the form of emails, referrals, text messages, phone calls, and heartfelt cards from both current clients and past clients. It’s the enduring impact of our partnership, often expressed years later, that brings me immense joy and excitement.

When people reach out and share how our collaboration has positively shaped their lives and continues to do so. The satisfaction derived from these connections is profound and, at times, even moves me to tears of gratitude. Whether it’s witnessing the resolution of team issues, glimpsing into vacation plans, receiving family pictures, or being entrusted with personal highs and lows from their journey, it’s truly an honor.

Each connection reinforces my belief that I am on the right track, making a positive impact. These moments serve as a stark contrast to times when, as the person on the plane, I faced skepticism and tears from my own family when I departed from my corporate job many years ago. The highs, rooted in these meaningful connections, validate the choices I’ve made and affirm the positive influence I strive to have.

Do you feel comfortable sharing a story from your own experience about how you felt unusually low, and vulnerable as a result of your business? We would love to hear it.

(In jest of course), I sometimes find myself questioning why I agree to these interviews, as was the case last night when I looked at my husband and pondered this. Vulnerability in strength can be difficult right? However, I willingly participate because I know that people reading these articles might resonate with my experiences, realizing they are not alone. I share my journey because someone out there might be grappling with the same doubts about their business decisions, wondering why they took significant risks or invested so much.

One of the lowest points in my entrepreneurial journey occurred when a business relationship rapidly deteriorated, resulting in the loss of over 90% of my income almost overnight. The critical mistake I made was having all my revenue sources concentrated in one basket, despite intuitive signals urging me to diversify. Instead of blaming the other party for the betrayal, I chose to take responsibility for the situation. Faced with an urgent need to make decisions, I prioritized honoring all my financial obligations, resulting in a multiple six-figure loss for me.

I had been so immersed in mostly serving one major client and contract that I neglected to take time to build my foundation and diversify into more revenue streams. The crash, when it came, was swift and impactful. As entrepreneurs, we often sense when certain actions are necessary, even if they mean slowing down to shore up our foundations.

The key lesson from this experience is to honor intuition, even when it suggests slowing down in the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. Building something unique and following a distinct vision is a gift; each entrepreneur’s journey is inherently different. Whether opening a coffee house or any other venture, it’s crucial to honor your individual vision and not dismiss it. If things go sideways, focus less on blame and more on extracting lessons that facilitate a swift recovery.

Based on your experience can you tell us what you did to bounce back?

In the face of that critical moment, I had to confront a pivotal decision: to either succumb to failure or navigate through the challenges. Despite the stress, I recognized the urgency of making swift decisions. Refusing to quit, I turned inward and, against the odds, scrutinized every aspect of my business. I took proactive measures to streamline processes and implement new systems.

The journey was undeniably challenging, and much of it proved far from pleasant. However, I made a commitment to confront every fear that surfaced — addressing every “would have,” “could have,” and “should have.” Determined, I managed to overcome the obstacles, feeling guided by a higher purpose throughout the process.

What are your “Five Things You Need To Successfully Ride The Emotional Highs & Lows Of Being An Entrepreneur”?

1. Build a Strong Community: Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded individuals who understand the entrepreneurial journey. Having business mentors who can provide valuable support and guidance, sharing their own experiences, is crucial. Your community may evolve as you progress, and that’s okay. Vulnerability strengthens your bonds and allows for growth through challenges.
2. Maintain a Business Perspective: Remind yourself that setbacks are business decisions, not personal attacks. Even in the face of betrayal, separating personal feelings from business realities is essential. Extract lessons, focus on resilience, and view challenges as opportunities for long-term success.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Adopt the principle of putting your own oxygen mask on first, emphasizing the importance of self-care. Beyond the cliché, this means addressing fundamental aspects like hydration, nutrition, sleep, and mental well-being. Find ways to regulate stress, whether through exercise, walks, music, or creating a positive environment. Taking care of yourself is integral to being effective for others during both highs and lows.
4. Embrace the Marathon Mentality: Entrepreneurship is a marathon, not a sprint. Pace yourself to prevent burnout and sustain success. Maintaining an even keel is crucial for long-term effectiveness. Manage your energy, protect your brilliance, and approach your entrepreneurial journey with a focus on endurance.
5. Challenge Self-Limiting Beliefs: Resist falling for the hype, challenge self-limiting beliefs and catastrophic thinking. Acknowledge that circumstances in business evolve, and staying grounded helps you focus on what truly matters.

These insights offer a comprehensive approach to navigating the emotional roller coaster of entrepreneurship, fostering resilience, and ensuring long-term success.

We are living during challenging times and resilience is critical during times like these. How would you define resilience? What do you believe are the characteristics or traits of resilient people?

Resilience, as per Oxford’s definition, is the capacity to withstand or quickly recover from difficulties, demonstrating toughness and the ability of a substance or object to spring back into shape.

Motivationallines.com provides insightful characteristic traits of resilience, including optimism, self-belief, self-control, adaptability, problem-solving skills, emotional awareness, social support, and a sense of humor. While I agree with all these traits, I would emphasize the top three as emotional awareness, self-control, and optimism. Additionally, I would add a fourth trait that is often found within resilient people, and that is the willingness to be flexible.

Did you have any experiences growing up that have contributed to building your resiliency? Would you mind sharing a story?

My most compelling resiliency story doesn’t stem from my childhood but rather from my corporate career. Throughout my professional journey, I faced substantial changes that truly tested my resilience in the face of adversity. I climbed the corporate ladder from a sales account executive to a district sales manager, then to an area branch manager overseeing two offices. However, a restructuring led to what felt like a demotion, prompting a transfer to a different office. Over the years, I reclaimed my position, eventually becoming a regional vice president.

My role involved managing diverse teams, ranging from a single team of four to overseeing 15 teams comprising close to 100 individuals. This responsibility brought about territory changes and extensive monthly commutes covering thousands of miles. Despite facing fear, especially during the initial promotion, where my physical reaction left me stressed even though it was good news, I learned the significance of consistently showing up to achieve my big dreams.

Building resilience to adversity has allowed me to thrive in high-pressure environments that once overwhelmed me to the point of dysfunction. Today, I share these lessons to empower others in navigating their challenges, emphasizing that resilience is akin to a muscle that requires continuous strengthening.

In your opinion, do you tend to keep a positive attitude during difficult situations? What helps you to do so?

Maintaining a positive attitude has been a fundamental aspect of my approach to both life and business. While I recognize that positivity may have some inherent aspects, I also see it as a skill that can be cultivated and developed. In the face of difficult situations, I actively choose to adopt a half-full rather than half-empty perspective, seeking joy and maintaining optimism. My belief in keeping a positive attitude is rooted in the idea that what is meant for me cannot be missed, and I actively reject a scarcity mindset. Embracing abundance and a commitment to lifting others up, contribute to making the world a better place, reinforcing the notion that working to help others does not harm oneself.

Can you help articulate why a leader’s positive attitude can have a positive impact both on their clients and their team? Please share a story or example if you can.

Drawing from my experience working with leaders of varying attitudes, I have observed the profound impact that a leader’s positive demeanor can have on both clients and teams. Unlike command-and-control leaders who may only secure compliance, positive leaders foster loyalty, strong bonds, and trust that surpass mere adherence to directives. The inspiration derived from positive leadership encourages individuals to exceed expectations, creating genuine connections that extend beyond the professional sphere into personal lives.

Having personally faced the detrimental effects of negative leadership — experiencing extreme stress leading to hospital visits — I understand the importance of ensuring a positive work experience. Positive leaders cultivate environments where individuals not only meet personal goals but also contribute to the team’s success, leading to life-changing impacts. The stories of resilience and emphasis on positive attitudes underscore their transformative effects, making them indispensable elements for both professional success and personal fulfillment.

Ok. Super. We are nearly done. What is your favorite inspirational quote that motivates you to pursue greatness? Can you share a story about how it was relevant to you in your own life?

One of my favorite inspirational quotes, especially relevant to this interview, is “The middle is messy, but it’s also where the magic happens” by Brene Brown. This quote holds significance for me as it encapsulates the challenging middle phase of an entrepreneurial journey, embodying the need to have faith in the process despite uncertainties and obstacles. In entrepreneurship, the initial excitement and carefully planned journey can become daunting in the middle, where the destination isn’t clear. Brene’s quote beautifully captures this phase, emphasizing that despite the messiness, it is precisely where growth, confidence-building, and transformative magic occur. It speaks to the essence of navigating the intricate journey of entrepreneurship.

How can our readers further follow you online?

You can stay updated with my work online through my website, which is https://theresapidcock.com/. Additionally, you can connect with me on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theresahampsonpidcock, and you’ll find me on Instagram under the username @theresapidcock. I’m always eager to connect with readers, learn about your experiences, and engage in meaningful discussions, so please feel free to reach out, and let’s enjoy the journey together.

All photos included in this article are by Brio Photography.

This was very inspiring. Thank you so much for the time you spent with this. We wish you continued success and good health!