Why You Should Go To Jail.

Last week I went to jail ??

Now that my highly misleading headline got your attention, I want to share a powerful experience with you.

I was invited to mentor inmates as part of a program created by Defy Ventures. Their goal is to challenge inmates (Entrepreneurs in Training) to do something that is deemed impossible. 

To become entrepreneurs.

Several of these men had spent over 35 years in jail... some having spent years in solitary confinement... A practice deemed illegal in many countries...

As you can imagine, we entered the facility feeling a little nervous, but as soon as we walked into the room it became clear that the EITs were as nervous and excited as us. 

They had in many cases not had visitors in years, nor had they had much contact with the outside world. 

Contrary to what one may think, the experience turned out to be as powerful for the mentors as for the EITs. 

We all put on masks to keep up appearances. Whether it is lifting weights in the courtyard or pitching at an important investor meeting. It is a human condition. 

But on that day, everyone took off their masks...

What was left? Empathy, human compassion and mutual respect.

We learnt about their hardships, helped them solidify their ideas and more than anything made them feel heard by a world they are often isolated from.

Their stories made us realise the privilege we often take for granted.

All of them were looking for second chances, but were never really given a fair first.

As humans we often worry about things of little importance, so touching base with our human side helps put things into perspective, realign our goals and play this game that is existence with a sense of passion.

Everything these EITs lacked in "modern skills" they compensated for with a level of personal wisdom that is rare in our society.

The ability to pick ourselves back up after a fall, is a trait often associated with great entrepreneurs. In my books these guys are the bravest entrepreneurs of all.

So if you think your time is valuable, don't underestimate what a day with these guys is worth.

Go to jail!

Christian Peverelli