What shift in perspective has allowed you to see things differently?
It may sound simple, but realizing and truly understanding that we are all different and driven by different things has made a significant impact on me. This insight has changed the way I approach relationships and leadership.
What should leaders understand about their own role and responsibility?
Leaders should understand that their role goes beyond decision-making; it's also about empathy. People spend a significant portion of their lives at work, so it's essential to create an environment where they feel they can be their true selves: valued and supported.
What do you wish you had known 10 years ago?
I wish I had understood my absolute strengths and weaknesses earlier. This would have allowed me to collaborate more effectively with people who complement my skills and focus on leveraging my strengths rather than struggling against my weaknesses.
What's your secret sauce for building a great team?
My secret sauce is recognizing the unique strengths and motivations of each team member. By embracing diversity in skills and perspectives, I create a culture where everyone can contribute meaningfully and feel valued.
What’s your favorite ritual or meeting in your team?
It might sound simple, but I love starting meetings by just asking everyone how they're doing. It’s a great way to connect, build trust, and make sure everyone feels comfortable before diving into work stuff.
What do you do to maintain balance in your life?
My approach to balance might not work for everyone, but I maintain it by frequently switching between work and personal life. This means that my work often blends into my private life during times when the norm would suggest otherwise. However, we're all different, and I've found a way that works for me.
When times are tough, who or what is an anchor for you?
My daughter is my strongest anchor during difficult times. She has an incredible way of helping me see the bigger picture and reminding me of what truly matters in life, and how small my "problems" are compared to that.
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Here’s More, From Other Founders Around the World
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.
What's a mistake that you're happy you've made?
When I was 16 (way before the internet) I founded a travel-partner agency to connect people from different backgrounds seeking travel companions. After a year, I had to close the agency due to a lack of customers and the confusion some callers had regarding the nature of the “service.” Despite this setback, I gained invaluable insights into sales, communication and people’s needs, solidifying my desire to run a business that helps people.
What motivated you to become an entrepreneur?
After graduating, I worked for an extremely well-paying automotive company. But I always had the feeling that there was more out there. So I quit and went into research with the aim of becoming a founder.
What should leaders understand about their own role and responsibility?
There are no overnight miracles, it's very hard work: both physically and emotionally. Requires resilience, grit, strategic approach and grind.