What motivates you to work as a leader / entrepreneur?
My values. I want people to feel heard, understood, and supported. Through my experience in life of not having this in moments when I needed it and knowing I can help others feel this way, it's inspiring. I also know that it doesn't take much, it's just showing someone you care a little. And it turns out that I do.
When times are tough, who or what is an anchor for you?
My network. I have a wonderful wife, a best friend, some really close friends, and a fulfilling spiritual relationship. Depending on my needs, I know I can call upon any or all of these, and do so often.
What's a mistake that you're happy you've made?
Judging others. At certain points of life, you feel like you know so much and have all the answers, when it turns out you're wrong. You don't have enough information to make these conclusions and your solutions aren't going to work "just like that." Messing up like this has allowed me to listen first, have compassion, and ask question after question. I want to get as much of the picture as I can before diving in trying to problem solve. I will always be working on this and can say I'm able to build better relationships, truly help, and gain new perspectives in the process.
What's a question you like asking — yourself or your colleagues?
"Is this in alignment with the bigger picture/ your needs / ...?" — This question allows me to keep a conversation on topic, understand what my teammate is thinking/seeing/feeling, collaborate, and get a real gauge on a situation. I learn more about potential clients, issues, expectations, and get a ton of new ideas from simply asking this question.
What’s an important belief / a guiding principle that informs the way you build and run your business?
My current favorite is to honor your f¢# yeses. If it's not a f¢# yes, it's a hell no. This will keep you from chasing things that you feel you "should do" and keep you on track to do the things you know that are right for you.
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Here’s More, From Other Founders Around the World
What do you wish you had known 10 years ago?
I always thought that my life can be balanced between personal, business, health, family, finances and love. In that sense how much energy I put in and get back. But with the years, I learned that life is imbalanced by nature. It's still a goal for me and I believe if all parts are some kind of balanced, this speaks of a highly valuable life, but accepting that there will always be a certain imbalance, helped me a lot.
What's the biggest insight you learned in recent years?
It’s always a good idea to be connected to your product – even if you have to deal with high-level topics, always remember the things you offer.
What personal habit helped you accelerate your personal growth?
In one of the hardest times of my life so far, I started journaling for 1-2h on Sundays. Not digital, but with paper and pen. Always answering the same questions related to self, social life and work. This brutally honest and regular reflection once a week helped me identify problems early and iterate fast.
When times are tough, who or what is an anchor for you?
My co-founders are my anchor in work-related topics. Having an environment where failure is welcomed with a helping hand and where weakness is valued as openness, once you are down those people will drag you up.