Key Questions Drive Your Long-Term Viability
It wasn't easy for me to accept that life is a marathon, not a sprint. Truth be told, it took me a lifetime to figure this one out.
I've always been the quintessential "jump-on-every-train" entrepreneur, from:
?????? Studying for my Bachelor’s Degree while working full-time
??? ?? Prepping for MBA programs and exams in the US as I pursued a Master’s Degree in Ukraine
?? ?? ?? Starting a business from scratch as I maintained my full-time employment
?????? And launching TWO new businesses– while waiting for the ink to dry on selling my past business.
In other words, I've always been in a constant rush to extract maximum value from every minute. But now I've realized the importance of taking time to ask myself the fundamental questions so I'm not jumping from train to train at full speed.
This shift in perspective has been transformative, allowing me to truly understand what's coming around the bend, and the legacy I want to leave.
Here are the targeted questions that can help anyone hone in on their personal passion needed for long-term founder success. They come from my conversation with Garry Fatakhov , who went from college lecturing to co-founding a venture that caught Google's eye for $500 million.
1. If you had $500 million, what would you do?
This question forces you to set aside financial concerns and tap into what you are truly passionate about. Garry believes that the real energy needed to carry a person through all the ups and downs of a startup comes from our internal child, not our logical brain.
2. What am I most proud of accomplishing in the last 20 years?
Identify 1-2 things that you are genuinely proud of. This will help you understand your core values and strengths that will act as your reference points.
3. In 20 years, when I look back, what will I be most proud of?
Give yourself time to answer this one. It’s a great way to build a roadmap for what’s to come.
4. In 20 years, will today’s issue really matter?
If the answer is no, then it's better not to stress over it. Instead, prioritize what truly counts.
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If you want to catch up on the rest of this insightful conversation from the vaults between Gary and I, you can watch it here:
If you're anything like me, I recommend asking yourself these four questions regularly to help you gain clarity and direction. They've helped me to think in decades, rather than days or weeks.
In this fast-paced entrepreneurial journey, remember to slow down, reflect, and ask the right questions. This is your marathon, and every step counts towards building the legacy you envision.
– Vlada
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Sending you off with this thought...
The early-stage startup journey is relentless, but filled with immense potential to transform your idea into a thriving business. You already know that unwavering drive and passion will be the engine propelling your venture forward. However, momentum alone isn't enough.
Taking the time to regularly ask yourself some key questions can provide the clarity and direction needed for your business' sustainable growth. It will help you build a solid roadmap and make informed decisions that align with your long-term vision. And for further support with scaling your SaaS startup with confidence (and without borders) schedule a Growth Session with me for immediate feedback.
Finally, regularly revisiting goals and adjusting your strategy accordingly is essential. By doing so, you ensure that every step you take is purposeful and aligned with your ultimate aspirations.
P.S. – The Startup Growth Challenge will arm you with the strategies and insights needed to navigate your entrepreneurial journey with confidence. Join a FREE Startup Growth Challenge now to refine your roadmap and accelerate your success.
growing entrepreneurial businesses with SEO that works beyond Google
7 个月I love the idea of regularly asking if today’s challenges will matter in the long run. It’s so easy to get bogged down by immediate issues, but stepping back and seeing the bigger picture can be incredibly freeing.
Helping business owners increase profitability, enhance productivity, and build predictability in their business | Business Coach + Strategic Consultant
7 个月Absolutely Vlada Lotkina! The hustle culture can drive us to great heights initially, but it's the long-term vision that truly sustains success. Slowing down and focusing on a strategic roadmap can lead to more meaningful and lasting achievements. It's all about finding that balance and realizing that sustainable growth often comes from thoughtful planning, not just relentless action.