Nelson Mandela
When the going gets tough, people often turn to a motivational quote for inspiration, which is especially true for entrepreneurs. Words of wisdom from successful leaders in business, politics, sports, or the arts can be convincing – the assumption being that they have to be exceptional to get where they are. Seven entrepreneurs reveal the quotes that helped them overcome obstacles in their startup journey.
Turn everything into a victory
‘I never lose. I win or learn.’ Nelson Mandela
Desiree Silverstone, executive coach at Head Honchos, says: “From an early age I believed that every person and every situation is an opportunity to learn and that every person I meet and work with can teach me something. Even in difficult situations, I know that there is a gift somewhere, a valuable and valuable lesson, and this belief has helped me through difficult times. Whatever happens, it will always be a ‘win’.”
Success from adversity
“Remember, sometimes not getting what you want is a great windfall.” Dalai Lama.
There are often setbacks in business, especially in the early years, and it’s important not to wallow in self-pity. Danny Curran, founder and director of Finders International, says: “I started out as a sole proprietorship with aggressive competition that tried to make me lose heart every day. But it’s funny how life works by staying true to the root cause of building an ethical and successful business. We now have the UK’s largest probate research firm”
Find your inner strength
‘Nobody is coming to rescue you. You’re the one you’ve been waiting for.’ Helen Nicholson.
This quote helped Augustine Tumi Mogashoa, CEO and founder of technology company ASQE, to discover who she was and to free herself from self-sabotaging thoughts, fear and procrastination. She says: “My startup journey had ups and downs, and the pandemic was even worse, but knowing that challenges are a part of life has kept me from having self-destructive thoughts. I constantly remind myself of how I started and why I am here.”
Be prepared
“Everyone has a plan until they get punched in the face.” Mike Tyson
“You cannot plan in a bubble. Things change, so as a leader you have to be ready to respond and respond,” said Ed Robinson, co-founder and president of investment, banking and education platform stash. “What you think is the best idea, the customer or employee may hate. How you learn, repeat and bounce back from your losses or hits creates great companies, products and teams.”
Don’t ask, don’t get
‘Shy barns get no knock’ Anonymously
This Geordie phrase says to bring yourself up and ask because no one will do it for you. Jonny Britton, founder of proptech firm LandTechsays, “My grandma used to say it, and I’ve lost count of the number of times just asking for something has resulted in it being given.”
Simplicity for startups
“Always overcome the difficulty of keeping things simple.” Robert Polet, former CEO of Gucci Group
Why some startups succeed and others fall at the first hurdle is almost impossible to determine, because so many factors come into play, including luck. But one of the most fundamental principles governing a startup’s success or failure is simplicity.
“Every day there are a million ways to overthink and over-engineer,” said Andy McNulty, CEO of the digital guest welcome book Tap Stay. “I remember Robert’s words when it starts to come that way.”
The Leap of Faith
‘As an entrepreneur you have to feel like you can jump out of a plane, because you know for sure that you will see a bird flying by. It’s an act of stupidity, and most entrepreneurs go broke because the bird doesn’t come, but a few times it does.’ Reed Hastings, CEO of Netflix
After quitting the first and only stable job she ever had to start a business with no real backup plan, this quote resonates with Jasmin White, lifestyle photographer and author of the blog These country roads. “It was just irrational optimism,” she says. “People will always tell you it can’t be done until it is. Having the confidence to jump out of that plane separates those who achieve success from those who can only dream. I’m afraid to think how miserable I would be right now if I hadn’t taken that leap.”
Janice has been with businesskinda for 5 years, writing copy for client websites, blog posts, EDMs and other mediums to engage readers and encourage action. By collaborating with clients, our SEO manager and the wider businesskinda team, Janice seeks to understand an audience before creating memorable, persuasive copy.