Acting like a CEO

It's crucial to embody the role you aspire to achieve, even before you've officially arrived. This mindset has been a cornerstone in my journey as I evolve into the CEO of a rapidly growing, multi-million-dollar business. With nearly 20 employees today and an ambitious plan to scale to 50 within the next 10 months, the responsibilities and expectations of my role are evolving daily.

One of the most impactful lessons I've learned is to "act as if I'm already the CEO I intend to be." This isn't about faking it; it's about envisioning your future self and aligning your actions, decisions, and mindset with that vision.

I’ve sought advice from seasoned CEOs who've led companies with 500+ employees and generated tens of millions in revenue. Their insights, along with my own research—whether it’s reading books, studying industry leaders like those at Apple or Microsoft, or simply observing what successful CEOs do—have been invaluable. Yet, beyond gathering information, the key has been implementing those lessons in real-time.

H

ere’s how I’ve begun acting as the CEO I aspire to be:

1. Delegation and Trust: A crucial trait of an effective CEO is the ability to delegate. By trusting my team with greater responsibilities, I not only empower them but also free up my time to focus on strategic growth and innovation.

2. Future-Focused Thinking: My job is to think ahead—planning for growth, fostering innovation, and cultivating a strong company culture. Part of this involves creating an environment that’s not only productive but also enjoyable for our team.

3. Personal Development: Whether it's exercising, meditating, or seeking guidance from coaches and mentors, I'm committed to enhancing my physical and mental well-being. This preparation allows me to perform at the highest level and maintain the focus required to lead effectively.

4. Continuous Learning: I'm constantly refining my understanding of what it means to be a CEO. This includes learning about HR practices, financial management, and the nuances of effective communication. Every day is a step closer to embodying the CEO role fully.

5. Mindset Shift: Perhaps the most significant change has been in how I perceive myself. As my mentor once told me, "You become what you think about most of the time." By consistently thinking and acting like the CEO I aspire to be, I’m turning that vision into reality.

This mindset applies beyond the boardroom. Whether you aim to be a top athlete, a renowned marketer, or the best in any field, start acting as if you’re already that person. Write down the characteristics, systems, and processes you need, and begin implementing them now.

Remember, it won’t happen overnight, but by consistently acting as the person you intend to become, you’ll find yourself evolving into that role sooner than you think.

Here's To Your Success!

Best,

BTA