Building a successful business often means overcoming unique challenges, especially for those from non-traditional backgrounds. The journey often involves evolving as a leader and learning key principles from personal experience. Prioritizing impact over ego is critical, as pride can hinder effectiveness. Embracing doubt from others is essential, as authentic growth comes from focusing on customer needs rather than public perception. Finally, collaboration with smart partners and team members is vital for success, reinforcing the idea that no entrepreneur succeeds in isolation.
I've seen more deals die at the altar because someone needed to be right rather than effective. When we were first building OTC Global Holdings, I clung to a few ideas too tightly... But ego doesn't scale. Impact does.
In the early days, when I told people I was going to build a global brokerage firm out of Houston, they smiled like I'd just told them I was going to open a taco truck in Paris.
Your pride is not your strategy. Kill your ego before it kills your business.
No one does this alone. I've been lucky to have business partners and key team members who weren't just smart but who challenged me.
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