The Unconventional Entrepreneur's Playbook: 7 Lessons You Won't Find in Business School

I'm passionate about exploring the world of entrepreneurship (just in case you hadn't noticed yet!). I enjoy it when young aspiring entrepreneurs approach me after one of my supposedly inspiring public talks to seek advice.

Inevitably, I often find myself facing the dilemma of whether to present them with the stark reality as it is.

If you are an aspiring entrepreneur in search of wisdom, welcome to my no-filter, tell-it-like-it-is guide on how to build a successful business.

Here are seven wisdom nuggets for the week.

1: Adjust Your Socks

Forget the success stories plastered all over social media; your true companion on this journey is Mr. Failure. You'll be seeing a lot of each other, probably more than anyone else.?

Embrace it. Failure is not just a possibility; it's an inevitability. Tame it. And the sooner you accept that you'll fail more times than a bear attempting to water ski, the better.?

Think of failure as the goalkeeper in the game of life, ready to block your shots. Now remember Messi: he might miss a goal now and then, but do you see him throwing a tantrum? Nope. He simply adjusts his socks, flashes that boyish smile, and gets ready to dazzle everyone again.

So, when failure tries to tackle you down, channel your inner Messi (channeling Ronaldo with a "Siuuu" also works).

2: You’re Crazy, And There is No Cure For It

You left a paying job and security (which, by the way, is an illusion, but that's a topic for another time), despite advice to the contrary from your mother, uncle, neighbor, and the coffee shop barista.

You didn't listen. You started a side hustle while maintaining a full-time job and managing family responsibilities.

In a sea of conformity, your willingness to be a pain in the neck is what will set you apart. Remember, it's the crazy ones who think they can change the world that actually do.

You're unconventional. But hey, you knew that, and there's no cure for it anyway. So, let's move on to the next lesson. The world thrives on the unconventional, the bold, and the downright daring.

3: Snatch "Om" From Yoga's Repertoire

In the hectic world of startups, where everything is always changing and nothing is sure, there's an important lesson to learn: the art of staying calm in the middle of chaos.?

This isn't just about dealing with the ups and downs—it's about finding peace within yourself despite the craziness of starting a business, transforming confusion into calmness, and making chaos something you're comfortable with.

Embracing the chaos isn't about giving up; it's about advancing gracefully, without panic, recognizing that the path to success isn't a straight line but a series of loops, twists, and turns.?

It's about finding the eye of the hurricane and setting up shop there, conducting business with a calm mind and a light heart, fully aware that the storm could pick up again at any moment.

So, dear entrepreneurs, as you navigate the challenge of startup life, remember to breathe, smile, and enjoy yourselves.

4: Unleash Your Inner Disco Disaster

You've probably heard of Tango and Ballet, but the Pivot dance might be new to you — a concept deeply valued in the startup ecosystem.

Here's the thing: your first idea is probably going to tank. Hard. Pivoting is the response in the face of such setbacks.

The companies that have thrived for decades are those that started with one idea and evolved into something else. The world is filled with examples of this, from IBM to 3M to Apple… and the list goes on.?

Didn't Darwin say that the species that survive are not the strongest but the ones with the ability to adapt?

5: Everyone Around You is Just Pretending They’ve Read the Manual

Adulting means figuring things out as you go, and running your own business is no different.

I’m going to let you in on a secret: No one around you has it all figured out. Many entrepreneurs wing it, especially at the beginning. They refer to this strategy as "following their gut."?

It's okay to encounter foggy spots in your journey as an entrepreneur. When that happens, simply take the next step and continue taking one step at a time until things start to clear up again.?

Whatever you do, don't throw in the towel too soon in the game.

6: Don’t Be a Jerk?

Ultimately, it's all about people working with people.?

Investors invest in you, the founder, before they invest in your product or idea. If they don't connect with you as a person, with your values, your work ethics, and your passion, they'll pass. The same goes for employees and business partners.

Many factors come into play when people decide to work for you, partner with you, or invest in your business. However, one important aspect that aspiring entrepreneurs often overlook is the interpersonal element.

Keep that in mind.

7: Do or Do Not. There is No Try

Entrepreneur isn't something you become; it's something you are.?

You don't learn to be an entrepreneur; you learn how to navigate the stormy seas of entrepreneurship. It's not a career choice but a calling. So, ask yourself, "To be or not to be?"?

If the thrill of the unknown, the allure of potential failure, and the quest for success sparks a fire in you, welcome to the club. If not, well, there's always something more predictable to do with your time.

As we wrap up these seven slices of entrepreneurial wisdom, remember that each piece is part of a larger puzzle. Navigating the world of startups and business creation is no small feat. It requires grit, a touch of craziness, and an unwavering commitment to your vision.

Change is the only constant. Keep adjusting those socks, polishing those dance shoes, and remember, in the end, it's not about having all the answers—it's about asking the right questions and daring to face the answers.