7 Life Lessons My Father Taught Me—And How They Shaped My Business Journey

As I spent some time working around the house today, my mind inevitably started to wander. In the midst of those thoughts, I found myself reflecting on my father, who passed several years ago. Though he’s no longer physically here, the lessons he taught me—both through his words and by his example—continue to guide my life and my business today.

It occurred to me that many of the things I’ve learned from him are not only valuable life lessons but also directly impact how I approach business and leadership. These are lessons that have stuck with me, and I’m sure many of you will relate to them in one way or another.

As business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders, we often get so caught up in the hustle, the grind, and the chase for success that we forget the foundational principles that lead to sustainable, fulfilling growth. These lessons are a reminder that success in business starts with mindset—and that starts with how we view ourselves and the world around us.

Here are 7 powerful lessons my father taught me, either directly or through the way he lived his life:

1. Make Peace with Your Past, So It Doesn’t Affect Your Present

Holding on to past regrets, mistakes, or disappointments can weigh us down and hinder our progress. When we hold onto old grudges, fears, or unresolved issues, it can impact the way we think, make decisions, and grow our businesses. Let go of the past to move forward with a clear mind and purpose.

In business, this means not letting past failures or negative experiences cloud your judgment. Every mistake is an opportunity to learn and evolve.

2. What Others Think of You is None of Your Business

It’s so easy to get caught up in the opinions of others. Whether it’s family, friends, or people in your industry, the weight of their judgment can sometimes be paralyzing. But here’s the truth: what others think of you has no bearing on your worth or your success.

In business, focus on your own vision and your own values. When you stop worrying about what others think, you’ll find the freedom to lead authentically, make bolder decisions, and pursue your goals with clarity and confidence.

3. Time Heals Almost Everything—Give It Time

Time has an incredible ability to heal wounds, clear the mind, and shift perspectives. No matter how difficult a challenge seems at the moment, with time, you’ll often find that things become clearer and more manageable.

In business, this lesson reminds us that not every setback is permanent, and not every solution needs to be immediate. Be patient with the process, trust that time will help you see things from a different angle, and allow space for growth and recovery.

4. Don’t Compare Your Life to Others and Don’t Judge Them

We all have our own unique paths in life, and comparing yourself to someone else can drain your energy and focus. Everyone’s journey is different—what you see on the surface is not the full story. Your path is yours, and theirs is theirs.

In business, comparing yourself to others can lead to feelings of inadequacy or imposter syndrome. Focus on what you can control and keep your attention on your own goals and progress. Celebrate your wins, however small, and focus on your growth rather than someone else’s.

5. Stop Overthinking—It’s Okay Not to Have All the Answers

As entrepreneurs, we often feel the need to have everything figured out before taking action. But the reality is that you don’t need all the answers right away. Sometimes, the best thing you can do is take that first step, trust the process, and let things unfold naturally.

In business, overthinking can be a major roadblock. It keeps you stuck in analysis paralysis, preventing you from making decisions or moving forward. Trust that the answers will come when you need them—and don’t be afraid to take imperfect action.

6. No One Is in Charge of Your Happiness Except You

Happiness is a choice—not something dependent on external circumstances. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that if only your business were more successful, your life would be better, but happiness comes from within. It’s your responsibility to cultivate a mindset of gratitude, positivity, and contentment.

In business, this means that no matter how chaotic or challenging things get, you control your mindset. Choose happiness, choose growth, and choose resilience—even in the face of adversity.

7. Smile—You Don’t Own All the Problems in the World

Life can be stressful, especially in business. It’s easy to feel like we’re carrying the weight of the world on our shoulders. But the truth is, you’re not responsible for every problem. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and smile. There’s a lot more to life than the problems we face on a daily basis.

In business, this reminds us to take a step back and not get overwhelmed by challenges. Not everything is urgent, and not everything is within our control. Focus on what you can do today, and trust that things will unfold in time.

Putting These Lessons into Practice

These lessons have guided me not only in my personal life but also in my business journey. As a business coach, I see how easily small business owners get stuck in patterns of stress, self-doubt, and overthinking. The truth is, you’re already equipped to succeed—but sometimes you need a little help breaking through those mental barriers.

If these lessons resonate with you and you’re ready to start taking action in your business—whether it’s identifying quick wins, building clarity, or developing a strategy that works for YOU—I’d love to chat. Let’s take 15 minutes to focus on your business, uncover some immediate opportunities, and start creating the future you’ve been working towards.

?? Book a 15-minute strategy call: https://elevaterise.com.au/strategy-call-15min

In this quick chat, we’ll identify your next steps, discuss what’s holding you back, and get you back on track with clarity and confidence.

These are the principles that have shaped my journey, and I hope they inspire you to reflect on your own path. Life and business aren’t just about pushing harder—they’re about living with purpose and staying true to the lessons that matter most.