It’s Independence Day 2017 – the day that we set aside for burnt hot dogs, too much pie, and frequently a sunburn – all in the name of remembering the founding of the country.
We started out as a nation in response to an oppressive regime that was unresponsive to its constituency’s needs. By breaking free from the British Empire in 1776 we created a national mindset that is still the hallmark of the true American today.
I don’t know if we are entrepreneurial by nature or nurture, but I do know this, it’s as American as Apple Pie. In my own life I’ve had a few “corporate” type jobs, but mostly it has been the entrepreneurial path for me. I did the fast food job in high school, a couple of restaurant jobs in college, a law firm, and post law school I did a stint in a major American marketing company.
|
I don’t know if we are entrepreneurial by nature or nurture, but I do know this, it’s as American as Apple Pie. In my own life I’ve had a few “corporate” type jobs, but mostly it has been the entrepreneurial path for me.
|
I lasted as long as I did in the marketing company thanks to their entrepreneurial culture, and it was only when I clashed with their attempts at ‘corporatization’ that I couldn’t take it anymore. My experience in starting companies, either for myself or my clients, has led me to work with entrepreneurs in many different capacities and industries.
The one thing that I have learned about those who are wanting to break out on their own is that they rarely listen to the advice of others, until they absolutely have to. But those that do, are more likely to succeed, by learning from the mistakes of others.
◊♦◊
The rugged independence of the American, is our greatest strength, and simultaneously our greatest weakness. But knowing that, we can do something about it. We can reach out to those who have trod the path ahead of us. We can learn from those willingly share their experience, and we can see farther when we stand on the shoulders of those who know more.
We are at our best when we are working together, in an independent way. It sounds like an oxymoron, but the truth is, America for all of its independence, has always had allies, and the wise entrepreneur, will also have allies.
So this Independence Day, when you are thinking of quitting that job, talk it over with someone who has been there, and learn the best way to strike out on your own. Stand on the shoulders of the giants who have gone before you, and you’ll go further faster.
__
