The Fusion of Diverse Experiences: How Three Distinct Business Experiences Shaped My Philosophy
Throughout our careers, we encounter seminal experiences that shape our perspectives and influence the way we approach life and business. In my journey, I have had the privilege of engaging in three distinct experiences that I consider pivotal in forming my business philosophy. From my time in the US Army, to pursuing an MBA at London Business School, and finally, immersing myself in the world of tech businesses through Techstars, each experience has contributed unique insights that have become the pillars of my approach to entrepreneurship. In this post, I will delve into each of these experiences and discuss how they have merged to form my unifying business philosophy.
1. The US Army: Lessons in Leadership and People
My career began in the US Army, where I was exposed to the principles of leadership, teamwork, and adaptability. Serving in the military taught me the importance of building strong relationships, leading by example, and making decisions under pressure. The experience instilled in me a deep appreciation for the value of human capital and the significance of effective communication. The constant stress and combative nature of military organisation forged in me an ironclad discipline and rigor.
These lessons have remained a crucial foundation in my approach to business, emphasizing the importance of fostering a supportive and collaborative environment where individuals can thrive and contribute their best.
2. London Business School: Understanding Business at an academic and international level
Seeking to expand my knowledge and skills, I pursued an MBA at London Business School (screw the techies that say MBAs are overrated!). The program provided me with a holistic understanding of business fundamentals across various industries. From strategy and finance to marketing and operations, I gained a broad perspective on the intricacies of running successful organizations. My project teams included students from diverse backgrounds including not only many business sectors, but from many geographies and working styles
This exposure allowed me to develop a versatile mindset that transcends specific industries, enabling me to adapt and find common ground across diverse business contexts.
3. Techstars, Zeroth, and Nalu: Unveiling the World of Tech Businesses and Processes
To further broaden my horizons, I immersed myself in the world of technology-driven entrepreneurship through Techstars, Zeroth, and Nalu accelerators and funds. This experience was transformative, as it exposed me to the disruptive nature of tech businesses and the innovative processes driving their success. Working alongside talented entrepreneurs, I witnessed firsthand the power of emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and data analytics in reshaping industries. But more than that, I got a front-row seat on what makes world-class founders world class.
This exposure not only expanded my understanding of tech businesses but also ignited a passion for leveraging technology as a catalyst for growth and innovation in traditional sectors and a respect for the individuals that make that happen.
The fusion of my experiences in the US Army, London Business School, and technology has shaped my comprehensive business philosophy, which emphasizes the integration of leadership, fundamental business principles, and cutting-edge technology. I firmly believe that effective leadership and a people-centric approach are foundational to any successful venture. Understanding the nuances of business fundamentals across industries allows me to identify commonalities and adapt strategies to various contexts. Furthermore, leveraging technology and embracing innovative processes enable me to stay ahead of the curve, harnessing the transformative power of emerging technologies to drive business growth and create meaningful impact.
As I continue on my entrepreneurial journey, I am grateful for the diverse experiences that have shaped my philosophy and excited what further lessons I can gather and learn to add to my philosophical framework.
