What quote or saying has stuck with you?
"Most People Won't" by Bryce Roberts. It's such a simple yet powerful idea. Most people will talk about their ideas, but not bring them to life. Most people want to reach out, but most people won't. Most people will never overcome their blockers - so the ones that do have all the power.
What book do you recommend the most?
"The Second Mountain" by David Brooks. The core idea here has transformed my life and many people who I've gifted this to - that what we really seek is not fame, status, or money.
What’s your favorite ritual or meeting in your team?
I always try and start a meeting, especially team meetings, with some brightspotting. We are way too easily drawn to what's not working or broken. But if we start off with some team or client wins, that can change the mood.
What's a perspective that we should pay more attention to in the workplace?
I believe we should be paying more attention to the "jobs" that people have outside of the office - e.g. a parent or caregiver. I've always had a "family first" attitude, and was always generous whenever someone had an illness or family issue to attend to. But I now realize that for many, it's more of a long term part of their work/life balance, with many different seasons.
What personal habit or behavior has shaped you as a leader?
I've been a very strong proponent of post-mortems. All too often we're on to the next task, assuming we've learned. But the more intentional we are in looking back and, without assigning blame, understanding what could have been better, we can lock in those learnings.
What's a question you like asking — yourself or your colleagues?
If they were to bring in a new CEO today, what would they do? And why aren't we doing it now? As much as we think we're not, we get mired in the status quo, sunk costs, sacred cows, etc. That question immediately wipes the slate clean, and opens up fresh perspective.
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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.