Recently, it dawned on me just how much running a fast-paced startup is like planning and executing a family vacation. As many parents know, vacations with young children are never really relaxing. Every day is an adventure, a constant re-evaluation of plans, and critical decision-making on the fly…much like navigating the turbulent waters of running a global banking intelligence startup.
Much of my leadership style has been shaped by experiences away from the boardroom- balancing my responsibilities as a CEO with my role as a father to 4 kids. This summer, I found myself in another teachable moment while hiking in Yellowstone National Park with my family.
Lesson 1: Embrace Change – We had planned to spend the day exploring Old Faithful, but an unexpected geyser eruption changed our plans at the last minute. Instead of insisting on sticking to the plan, we embraced the change and found an alternate path that led to some breathtaking sights. This is often what happens in business- you need to be ready to pivot when circumstances demand it.
Lesson 2: Teamwork is Everything – Our youngest struggled during the hike, but the rest of us rallied around her. We took turns carrying her backpack, holding her hand and encouraging her along the way. This same spirit is vital for any startup- no one wins alone.
Lesson 3: Celebrate Small Victories – At every milestone during our journey, we celebrated. Whether it was reaching a lookout point or spotting wildlife along our route – every small victory was acknowledged and celebrated which kept spirits high. It’s important in business as well- celebrating even small wins helps maintain morale during challenging times.
In conclusion, life as an entrepreneur isn’t just about financial models or strategic planning – it’s deeply personal and transformative at its core. The lessons learned while vacationing with family have given me invaluable insights that I use daily in leading my team and navigating business landscapes.
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