The End

First, I’d like to express my gratitude and appreciation for the opportunity that I was given to learn and apply the strategies and techniques in this course as I seek and pursue my Hero’s Journey to Entrepreneurship. In terms of what advice, I would give to someone else if I have the chance to mentor them, I would suggest that the life of an entrepreneur is dedicated to making the world a better place. Their motivation is not money, fame, or power; success is just the natural consequence of governing ones’ life according to correct principles. A lesson that comes to mind is “be an influence for good in the world”. From all the life stories of entrepreneurs mentioned in this course I found that many were good men and women who wanted to make the world a better place. The impression that comes to mind as “we are not told that we can ‘do anything that we want’ because everyone will, but because a few people who hear that call will accept and rise to the challenge”.

In addition, I am reminded the words by Steven Hitz from this book “Launching Leaders, An Empowering Journey for a New Generation”, there is a reference that stuck out to me that I felt impressed upon to think about it further: “Although it was hard, I did my best to transform this incredibly painful time into a chance to renew my faith in and commitment to God.” Hitz continues: "The only constant in life is God, which is why it’s so important that we learn to bring all aspects of our lives into full alignment with His truth. His timing, and His will.” I could not have said this any better. Thirteen years later, my relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is very important in my life today. I enjoy living the gospel, working to constantly increase my faith, serving in my calling along with others, and doing all that I can to be in full alignment with the Lord’s will. Nothing else matters. That is the only way we find peace and feel good about ourselves and other around us.

Also, I would like to highlight perseverance as key element to balance in an entrepreneurship journey as I thought this synchronized nicely here to pass along to someone else. Elder Faust’s address about the importance of persevering. As I began to read his address, I was impressed that the article would provide important instruction as to organize my life for success; I wasn’t disappointed. Elder Faust listed off blessings of knowledge and habits that come from serving a mission. He mentioned: “How to organize time wisely; the importance of hard work; leadership skills; people skills; the value of gospel study; respect for authority; the importance of prayer; humility and dependability on the Lord” (Faust, James). Elder Faust taught important principles attributed to success, he pointed: “Success is usually earned by persevering and not becoming discouraged when we encounter challenges” (Faust). Life is all about getting up when we get knocked down, if someone is willing to keep fighting, the paths to success will reveal themselves.

Another key element in my entrepreneurial journey is the challenge to become. I would like to highlight President Dallin H. Oaks teach us in his article “The Challenge to Become”, that the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something.  The Final Judgement, President Oaks declares, “is an acknowledgement of our acts and thoughts – what we have become.” We qualify for eternal life through a process of conversion, he added. The Savior told Peter what we can do when converted to the gospel. In Luke 22: 33-34, the Lord teaches this principle: When we are converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, we can strengthen others.  President Oaks taught: The Savior referred to what they [Nephites] must become. He adds, “… we are challenged to move through a process of conversion toward that status and condition called eternal life.” This is achieved, he says, by doing it for the right reason—for the pure love of Christ.

Throughout this course, we have been taught that the importance of developing a life plan and a personal constitution are critical to develop and operate through one’s life peak performance. Jim Though the Launching Leaders course, Jim Ritchie has outlined the blueprint to better balance and fulfill our roles and responsibilities as Hero’s Journeys to Entrepreneurship. During last week of launching leaders, Richie suggests being prepared in following areas to be our guide and reminder as part of our personal constitution:

“I am financially self-reliant”

“I am physically fit”

“I am identifying my skills and talents”

“I am a product of what I eat”

“I understand the value of humor”

“I am a leader”

“I am creative”

“I am mentally tough; don’t complain”

“I am a communicator”

At the end of this course, we have read and learned about so many people that recognized a need in the world and they went out and made it happen. They are the “finishers” that President Thomas S. Monson teaches about in his article "Finishers Wanted". There is the well-known phrase that surrounds the desire of being or doing something great: “someone has got to do it…why not you?” That is one of the key lessons that I gained: to be that person, to search for the “broken hilts” and save “great causes”.

This is the journey of an entrepreneur!

A Journey of Gratitude

During this week, I had the opportunity to learn, think and ponder about gratitude and the blessings in my life. I always enjoy learning from what the brethren teach me as President Thomas S. Monson relate in his talk titled “An Attitude of Gratitude”. It touched my heart and soul when I read the words of a familiar hymn: “When upon life’s billows you are tempest tossed, When you are discouraged, thinking all is lost, Count your many blessings; name them one by one, And it will surprise you what the Lord has done…”. Pres. Monson recalled the welcoming “breath of fresh air” attitude of his marketing professor as he instilled a spirit of “You can do it …. By teaching truth, inspiring effort, and prompting love”. Pres. Monson accounts for his gratitude to our mothers, fathers, teachers, friends, our country, and most importantly to our Savior, His example, and His love for all of us. As we “Follow Him. Let us emulate His example. Let us obey His word. By doing, we give to Him the divine gift of gratitude.”

Another great learning was through a Harvard Business School case written by Howard H. Stevenson and Shirley M. Spence titled “Identifying and Exploiting the Right Entrepreneurial Opportunity … for You”. The analysis discussed the determining factors whether the entrepreneurial idea is the right opportunity for me given where I am and where I want to go in my life. The author explains the process starts by identifying and exploiting entrepreneurial opportunities beginning with an idea that addresses some societal need. The framework is analyzed as “realness”, durability, marshaling the resources, managing and harvesting the venture. The “idea” is then contrasted with the personal analysis: my goals, capabilities, lifestyle, and relationships. The analysis goes in detail to point out that at any given point in time, we have a range of possibilities before us with some uncertainty. Many factors influence these choices such as: education, health, family, work experience, networks, technology, competition. The authors make a point that none of these factors are entirely within our controls and will change. In summary, the authors learn from the wise words of Henry Thoreau are outlined: “…if one advances confidently in the direction of his dreams … to live a life which he has imagined, he will meet a success unexpected in the common hours … if you have built castles in the air, your work need not be lost; that is where they should be. Now put the foundation under them.”

In addition, I would like to highlight the learning from an article written by Stan Christensen titled “Avoid the Wrong Job”. Stan suggests not taking a job simply to build your resume; rather follow your passions. “The fun should outweigh the drudgery”, Stan suggests. He recommends “to remain a generalist, rather than specializing in a single pursuit, as this will retain your flexibility and keep your skills from becoming irrelevant”.

The last learning video that I would like to highlight in my journey is through “Paths to an Entrepreneurial Career” video by Ted Zoller. Zoller describes his findings on the pathway people take that lead to them becoming deal makers in an economic system. Zoller suggests that instead of starting a company out of school or working in venture capital, Zoller says the most likely path is gaining a C-suite position (i.e.: CEO, COO, CFO) in a larger enterprise and then stepping into entrepreneurial ventures later in a career.

Become a Changemaker

This semester is soon to be ending. It is interesting to me to look back at what I have learned and to some how much I have grown from studying the life and accomplishments of great men and women. I always look forward to studying the counsel of the brethren. I specially appreciated Elder Jeffrey R. Holland talk given in the October 2014 General Conference “Are We Not All Beggars?”. Elder Holland highlighted noted that the Savior’s first and foremost messianic duty would be to bless the poor, including the poor on spirt. that poverty ‘has been of humankind’s greatest and most widespread challenges. “He that oppresseth the poor reproacheth his Maker” Proverbs 14: 31. The Lord challenged us, Elder Holland stated, “to look to the poor and needy, and administer to their relief that they shall not suffer.” We should take merciful action in their behalf and pray for those in need. Elder Holland further reminded us that although “I may not be my brother’s keeper, I am my brother’s brother, and because I have been given much, I too must give.” (Because I have Been Given Much, Hymn 219).

  

Another article that stuck out to me was “Make It Personal and Make It Work” by Sheryl Sandberg, COO Facebook.  She spoke on effective leadership containing a vision that will scale over time, place, and product line. Sheryl commented on how Google’s mission had a compelling vision on achieving that mission. And that mission was to take the world’s information and make it universally useful and accessible.  Also, Facebook had a vision on how to get there is really, really important. Facebook was trying to give people the power to share and make the world more open and connected. “So for both of these companies, they had visions that scaled. And those visions are usually stated in mission statements, they can be or they cannot be”.

  

Larry Brilliant’s article on “A New Breed of Entrepreneur” discusses the global unity and concentrated effort strives to accomplish in other areas, the virus was eradicated; thanks, in equal parts, to scientific discovery and philanthropic will. Brilliant highlighted that in lieu of the great accomplishments that conquer and discovered killer diseases like smallpox, polio, and malaria, they took will and unity of the humankind.

  

Through another great article titled “Microlending: Toward a Poverty-Free World” by Muhammad Yunus, it discusses that by trusting small, impoverish borrowers, Yunus found a way to bridge the gap between economic theory and human reality. Yunus discovered that there was a missive gap between real life of the poor and the hungry people and the make-believe world of economic theory. It was interesting to learn Yunus’ findings that “Economics has reduced human beings to lesser beings than what they are, and consequently still lesser beings that what they could be.” Yunus found that Economics treated entrepreneurs as royalty in economic. This research indicated that all non-entrepreneurs are beings born to serve under entrepreneurs. Having said this, “all than an individual need is an opportunity, … then the world would pay attention to creating those opportunities.” Another critical finding in Yunus’s research is that “credit plays such an important role in the lives of poor people.” Yunus reminded the audience: “irrespective of what you learn in school, always be ready to unlearn and relearn.” “Don’t give up dreaming. Be a dreamer. And keep on trying to make the dream come true. If we all dream about a better world, I can guarantee you that we will create a better world.”

The following questions and answers are based on the Harvard Business Review’s “What’s a Business For? By Charles Handy.

1.       Based on what you read in the first two pages (pages 3 and 4), why are virtue and integrity so vital to an economy?

Based on the article trust and virtue appear to be fading out from the business world. There are too many scandals that are related to our economy. “To may, it seems that executives no longer run their companies for the benefit of consumers, or even of their shareholders and employees, but for their personal ambition and financial gain.” People do not trust those business leaders who run big companies anymore. Hardy states that once truth and trust are gone, our economy becomes so unreliable “that no one wants to play in the game.” Therefore, I believe that virtue and integrity are critical to our economy.

2.       According to Charles Handy, what is the “real justification” for the existence of businesses?

Handy explains that the purpose of a business is not to make a profit/ “It is to make a profit so that the business can do something more or better.”

3.   What are two solutions proposed by Handy that you agree with? Why?

  

-      I believe one solution is that companies should focus more on their human resource capital based on their needs, skills, and talents. Companies will see greater productivity and job retention.

I believe the other solution discussed in this article refers to when creating new products, technology, improving services in order to make products that are good things in life and are priced competitive with other products. When companies realize this they will be profiting from the poor and rich. 

Measuring the Cost: Life Balance

This lesson was full of learning and pondering on the strategies reviewed throughout this week. Something that stood out from President Thomas S. Monson’s Formula to Success are: 1. Fill your heart with love. 2. Fill your mind with truth. 3. Fill your mind with success.  President Monson taught that we have the responsibility to learn, understand, and live the word of God. “Missionaries should go forward knowing that they are in the service f God… as they share their testimonies…” President Monson declared. He further said: “I thank the Lord for the love he demonstrated by providing his life, that we might have life eternal.”

  

In addition, the following stood out key points discussed in the article titled “Balancing Your Life and Your Career Successfully” by Randy Komisar. One of the key elements that Komisar outlines in this article is to stay ethical and never put ourselves in a situation where we can not say no and cut back. We need to maintain a balanced life as priorities change. During this process, Komisar recommends seeking help from those people who know and respect us.

  

Another great reading this week was through an “Attitude on Money” by Stephen W. Gibson.

What is my attitude toward money? I believe that at home, money management between husband and wife should be on a partnership basis, with both parties having a voice in decision and policy making. When the children come of age of accountability, they too should be involved in money concerns on a limited basis. We taught our children the importance of working and earning money. Our children had chores and served others. Later in their life, they learned to look for employment and earn to save for rainy days. I learned through reading this article that money can make good men better, but also makes bad men worse. It is evident the terrible things that money can do in the hands of wrong people. Also, I learned what money can do in the hands of good people as it is in the case of Church leaders, Brother Huntsman, Bette and Stephen Gibson, and many other good people.

What can your view about money affect the way you live?

In my life, my wife and I pay our tithings as soon as we receive our income; so that we never see this money as we believe it is the Lord’s money. Also, we have learned that self-discipline and self-restraint are critical in all money matters and financial decisions within the family. My wife and I have learned together all money-management skills in spirit of cooperation and love. We have learned to carefully use and possibly avoid as much as possible installment of line of credits and have taken advantage of the power of savings, when possible. Our family uses a current family budget to monitor all our monthly expenses versus income.

What rules are recommended for prospering?

I enjoyed reading and learning the rules for prospering:

1. Seek the Lord and have hope in him.
2. Keep the commandment, that includes the temporal ones, tithings and fast offerings.
3. Think about money and plan how you can become self-reliant.
4. Take advantage of chances for learning so you will not be ignorant of these matters. Education is the key to opportunity.
5. Learn the laws upon which the blessings of wealth are predicated.
6. Do not send way the naked, the hungry, the thirsty or the sick of those who are held captive.

Dream Big Dreams

Another week has come and gone. I am enjoying this entrepreneurship course. This week, President Dallin H. Oaks taught us in the article “The Challenge to Become”, that the gospel of Jesus Christ challenges us to become something.  The Final Judgement, President Oaks declares, “is an acknowledgement of our acts and thoughts – what we have become.” We qualify for eternal life though a process of conversion, he added. The Savior told Peter what we can do when converted to the gospel. In Luke 22: 33-34, the Lord teaches this principle: When we are converted to the gospel of Jesus Christ, we can strengthen others.  President Oaks taught: The Savior referred to what they [Nephites] must become. He adds, “… we are challenged to move through a process of conversion toward that status and condition called eternal life.” This is achieved, he says, by doing it for the right reason—for the pure love of Christ.

Also, I learned this week through a Harvard Business Review article titled “The Heart of Entrepreneurship” by Howard Stevenson, that there are four external pressures which stimulate recognition: Technology, Consumer economics, Social values, Political action and regulatory standards.

  

In addition, Marissa Meyer, VP of Search Products & Users Experience at Google, discusses in the video “License to Pursue Dreams” the opportunity that Google provides all employees by setting aside 20% (or 1 day per week) of an employee’s time for creative projects. By her assessment, nearly half of the Google’s most recent launches came from ideas sparked during this unstructured time. This is a powerful statement. According to Meyer the company really trusts their employees, as the company encourage them to be creative, and really wants them to explore whatever it is that they want to explore. Ultimately this opportunity fuels a huge amount of creativity and innovation.

   

Lastly, the Launching Leaders series discusses Woody Woodward’s “Your Emotional Fingerprint” as Jimmy Richie finds new friends and mentors that teach him to discover new things about himself.  This book shows exactly how to determine your own unique emotional fingerprint (and those of others in your life) and leverage its power to find happiness and success in your life. Also, Richie recommends the book to build and strengthen on how you take control of your life, revolutionize your relationships, and beat the odds. The book helps you discover how to turn any negative situation into a positive experience.

Disciple Leadership

This week was full of learning and applying the new concepts and ideas as I apply them into my Hero’s journey to entrepreneurship. I appreciated reading and pondering about Elder David A. Bednar’s article titled “A Disciple Preparation Center”.  Elder Bednar provided great insights on the similarities between a missionary training center (MTC) and Brigham Young University – Idaho as a Discipline Preparation Center (DPC). He highlighted a few characteristics such as: both centers are isolated geographic area, both missionaries and BYU-Idaho students are enrolled for a relatively short period of time, the learning and teaching are focused and intense, distinctive requirements for demeanor, dress, and both centers are located near temples. The fact that I am part of this sacred and set apart place has an immense value to me, as well as having access to unparallel spiritual resources that can assist me and those who attend BYU-I in developing and deepening our devotion as disciples of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Another great reading covered this week that resonated with me was through President Kim B. Clark’s article titled “Leadership with a Small L”. President Clark describes small “L” leadership and small “D” discipleship at BYU-Idaho as how the Savior exemplifies this type of leadership and how it is needed in our homes, families, communities and business throughout the world.  President Clark taught that the call to be a disciple-leader is a call to minister and to serve. It is a leadership that builds and lifts through kindness and love and unselfish devotion to the Lord and His work. As part of this small “L” leadership and discipleship, he outlines three principles: Principle #1: Lead by Example, Principle #2: Lead with Vision; Principle #3:  Lead with Love. After reading this article, I pray that I may always be disciple of the Savior and lead by example with vision and love.

In addition, I learned great business strategies on the article titled “Good to Great” by Jim Collins. Mr. Collins outlined three very simple success and strategies to commit to a standard of excellence founded around these statements: Disciplined People – getting the right people in business and then keeping them focused on excellence. Disciplined Thought – being honest about facts and avoiding temptation. Disciplined Action – realizing what is important to achieve and what is not. 

Finally, a great lesson was taught through the article titled “A Message to Garcia – Will you deliver it? Lieutenant, Andre Summers Rowan, was sent to Cuba alone with an important mission -- to carry a message to Garcia – as Garcia was the leader of the Cuban militia. The president of the U.S. at the time, William McKinley needed Garcia’s help for the war effort. Rowan was the individual suggested to deliver the important message. Rowan’s acceptance of his task was without question, by carrying out his duty and desire to carry out the mission without delays. These are traits that all men and women should follow and strive for. Rowan’s trustworthy, and his responsibilities of hard work and commitment, make young people into responsible members of society.

Overcoming Challenges

This week was full of new insights about how to overcome challenges in my hero’s journey to entrepreneurship. I know that resistance, setbacks, and disappointments will be abound in my journey. As I learn to apply my true identify and conviction will help me emerge from this critical and challenging process and become a stronger leader and entrepreneur. From this week’s reading selection, A Field Guide for the Hero’s Journey, I learned that it is through setbacks, obstacles, and challenges that will helps us build mental, emotional, and spiritual muscles. Paul writes to the Romans 5: 3-4: “… but we glory tribulations also; knowing that tribulation worketh patience; and patience, experience; and experience, hope: …” Jeff Sandefer says that our goal is important, but it is how you reach your goal, has the potential to transform my very self. At the end, Sandefer suggests “… you not only achieve something great but also become something great.” Sandefer challenge new entrepreneurs to fail early, often, and as cheaply as possible. These challenges are necessary means for developing the faith and persistence to overcome the real challenges that inevitably confront any person who has set out to do something heroic.

  

These thoughts were expanded as I read the article titled “Looking Back and Moving Forward” by Pres. Thomas S. Monson.  As a humble prophet of the Lord, with all the demands which come with the office of President, President Monson earnestly prayed that he might continue to be worthy instrument in the Lord’s hands to carry on this great work and to fulfill the tremendous responsibilities as a prophet, leader, and president. President Monson invites all to cast off the old person and to measure up to the stature of true potential. His invitation Is to reach out in the pure love of Christ and express our desire to assist and welcome everyone into full fellowship. “Let us lift you and cheer you and calm your fears.” The Lord invites us all to come unto Him and “find rest … for my yoke is easy, and my burden is light.” Matthew 11: 28-30. Like President Monson and all the prophets of any dispensation will continue to be great examples of leadership, humility, dedication, sacrifice and steadfast faith as they all testified that our Heavenly Father loves all His children as He wants them to be successful and have joy in this life.

  

The address that sister and Elder Holland talks on “However Long and Hard the Road” is a great reminder that rather than giving up or quitting, when difficulties or challenges come our way, the Lord is asking us to stick with it, persevere, to hang in and hang on and to reap our reward. In the scriptures we find similar counsel as the Lord teach us: “Wherefore, be not weary in well-doing, for ye are laying the foundation of a great work. And out of small things proceedeth that which is great.” D&C 64: 33. 

"It will be all right in the end. Trust God and believe in good things to come." Elder Holland

   

I believe that these principles that we discussed this week around overcoming challenges will all be beneficial in helping me become a successful businessman and a good leader.

Moving Forward with A Driving Passion

I truly enjoyed this week’s reading resources and videos as a consideration to why I would want to go into business and my hopes to accomplish these efforts. I learned from President Gordon B. Hinckley’s on “Stand True and Faithful” as he encouraged “about being true to the faith, about being true to ourselves and associates, and being true to our parents and heritage, and about being true to the Church and to our Heavenly Father and His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ.” As the world is changing, he reminded of the true reasons we receive education in order to prepare and equip ourselves for these changes and the work we are currently engaged, and for the work we will do in the future. President Hinckley warned us against any involvement in immorality. He said that “if we will let virtue garnish our thoughts, we shall stand with confidence in the presence of God. Our dominion shall be an everlasting dominion. (D&C 121: 45-26).” He went on to say “to be true to one another, your friends and associates. Look for the good in those about you and emphasize that good.” Pres. Hinckley encouraged us to look to the Church and its leaders for counsel and direction. He reminded us that the Lord is there to help us. “Come unto me, all ye that labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest”. Matthew 11: 28.

   

Also, I learned this week to evaluate my passion for work and business. The 7-Habits of highly effective People by Stephen Covey is a great reminder how to organize and conduct personal change. In pursuit of personal effectiveness, most people try to change of two things: their behavior or their attitude. However, the only true solution for real change is the recognition and changing of our personal “paradigm” or pattern of perception by which we view the world. Stephen Covey teach us as the Seven Habits of Highly Effective People are: Be Proactive, Begin with the end in mind, Put first things first, Think win/win, Seek first to understand, then to be understood, Synergize, Sharpen the Saw. I am thankful that I own and have read this book as part of my favorite book collection. The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People gets many things right as it continues to be an important personal development resource.

   

Another great resource reviewed this week was Guy Kawasaki’s comparison between “Passion vs. Money”. In this video, Guy remind us that whatever we build, it’s all about passion and less about money. Kawasaki likes to approach any growth opportunity with a special consideration on “changing the world and just have the optimistic belief that if you do indeed change the world you will make money too.”

   

In addition, another highlight should be given to another great reading for Mastery written by George Leonard. This book provides the blueprint to master anything, like a personal skill, talent, exercise, learn a sport, or ways to become a better student. Being successful at anything is about engaging in the process that George Leonard maps our in Mastery. Great reading and learning resource!

Success Is Gauged by Self-Mastery

This week I very much appreciated Elder Tanner’s address title “Success Is Gauged by Self-Mastery”. The phrase that accurately sums up the point in this message is found within the article: “The Lord is always looking for men in whom He can place His full confidence, who can represent Him in the mission field, and men who can be rusted in every way and who are prepared to help build His kingdom.” (Tanner, N. Eldon). Elder Tanner said: “… as you accepted the priesthood you made a covenant with the Lord that you would honor the priesthood and live worthy of it.” To accomplish this great and divine task, Elder Tanner continues, is to conquer self. He then quoted a few philosophers: “The first and best victory is to conquer self; to be conquered by self is, of all things, the most shameful and vile” (Plato); “He who cannot establish dominion over himself will have no dominion over others” (da Vinci); “He that is slow to anger is better than the mighty; and he that ruleth his spirit than he that taketh a city” (Prov 16: 32).  Elder Tanner suggests that “we must never relax or forget who we are and what we are trying to accomplish.” As we continue to honor the priesthood and remain worthy to have the priesthood in our lives, the Lord will continue to trust and place His confidence on us so that we can help Him bless the lives of others through service and sacrifice. I am indeed thankful for this principle of the gospel of Jesus Christ.

   

Another fundamental principle that I was reminded this week is the loyalty to God, wife and family are the most critical priorities in our lives. I enjoyed watching Jan Newman's video https://vimeo.com/28075977 as Newman suggested to take care of business in these areas. Newman warns us not to pass on opportunities to serve in callings because we are too busy with life and our professional careers. Because we need the Lord’s help, He’ll know where our hearts are, and they won’t be on His side.

   

Also, I enjoyed watching the “Three Lesson About What It Means to Be an Entrepreneur” by Wences Casares. He shares three most important insights as Casares counsels that 1) Entrepreneurship is a calling that chooses us—it is inescapable. 2) Time is our most valuable asset and 3) Entrepreneurs create the most value by doing the same thing for a very long time.

  

Finally, after reading the article titled “Don’t Jump in Unprepared”, I learned there are three areas of knowledge that are critical for starting a successful business: 1. In-depth knowledge of the competitive structure of an industry and a network of contact within that industry; 2. The skills to run that daily operations of a small, rapidly growing company; and 3. The ability to raise capital. This reading taught me a few great lessons. The fact that almost without exception, when it comes to industry knowledge we must be immersed in an industry for years to pick up nuances. Regarding day-to-day operations, if the company is flawed, almost any strategy is in jeopardy. As for raising capital, reputation is everything. “A good money raiser is part salesman, but that salesmanship is built brick by brick on a foundation of competence and honesty”. 

Mastery: Skill, Character, or Luck

This week was filled with great learning, readings, and knowledge associated with becoming an entrepreneur.

   

Jeff Sandefer’s article on Skill, Character or Luck? Discussed the various characteristics of an average entrepreneurs. Important skills were highlighted: “The ability to find good salespeople and manage a sales force”; “Having a firm grasp of which numbers are important”; Knowing how to put together an assembly line or service delivery process”; “Being able to communicate clearly”; “Listening and questioning customers”; “Being a Problem Solver; thinking”, etc. were a few skills mentioned in this article.  I learned that talent and dedication are important traits to entrepreneurship. Other important character traits we outlined: “Basic curiosity”; “Fairness”; “Courage”; “Relentless pursuit of opportunity” were among other traits. Most of the characters and master critical skills for entrepreneurs are perseverance and honesty. However, what made them different from others is that they stayed the course. Day after day; year after year.

   

Another reading that I enjoyed this week as I learned “How You Find Your Passion and How Do you Pursue It?" Randy Komisar highlighted the following questions: What's the ultimate question? What is the ultimate thing that you're going to do with your life? What is the ultimate mark you're going to make? What is the farthest horizon that you can articulate? Then, Randy asked two additional questions on What are my values? What do I care about? This approach gives us directions and guidance. Optimization is ultimately the critical mindset that allow entrepreneurs see the opportunity in front of them. In fact, as entrepreneurs we need to look at all opportunities available to us makes it easier to decide and move forward.

I thought this synchronized nicely to another one of the articles that we studied this week. Elder Faust’s address about the importance of persevering. As I began to read his address, I was impressed that the article would provide important instruction as to organize my life for success; I wasn’t disappointed. Elder Faust listed off blessings of knowledge and habits that come from serving a mission. He mentioned: “How to organize time wisely; the importance of hard work; leadership skills; people skills; the value of gospel study; respect for authority; the importance of prayer; humility and dependability on the Lord” (Faust, James). Elder Faust taught important principles attributed to success, he pointed: “Success is usually earned by persevering and not becoming discouraged when we encounter challenges” (Faust). Life is all about getting up when we get knocked down, if someone is willing to keep fighting, the paths to success will reveal themselves.

Finally, I would like to highlight the three promises in the video “A Hero’s Journey” by Jeff Sandefer: We promised that students will learn; We promise that they will make money; We promise that they have a life of meaning. At the end, students felt they had learned and made money from the principles taught during the Hero’s Journey. However, from a survey conducted with people interviewed that were older than 60 years old said that three following questions are what they were mostly influenced by:

 

1.      Have I contributed to something that was meaningful?

2.      Am I a good person?

3.      Who did I love and who loved me?

  

Upon reflecting on these questions, I realized that as I build my life around the role of an entrepreneur, I need to keep in mind these questions as nothing else will ultimately influence my personal life and my business.

How to Measure My Life

I have really enjoyed this week setting up and accomplishing goals in the past but have never specifically identified and set apart governing principles (Cover Values) to act as the base and support for achieving my goals. The real question comes to life as we have been counseled to “beginning with the end in mind”. Listing long term goals, constantly striving to accomplish short term goals, and accomplishing daily tasks are all parts of how I can effectively measure my life. Thus far the articles and video podcasts presented have said a lot about how to live a good life.

The assignment on Deconstructing my Fear Experience came to heart as I faced my worse fears and learned how to tackle them. I learned that when pursuing your calling with discipline and receiving the help of others will help me not to worry and waste my time on the things I cannot control. As to what is the core of what fear means? For example, my fear of losing and going broke is by far my worst fear. My plan is to mitigate this fear by removing the money question altogether and rather put an emphasis on the skills, talents, and experience I have acquired over the years.

Also, I learned another great insight from Clayton Christensen’s address talks about “allocation choices”. Mr. Christensen suggests using allocation choices as someone may break down on how to spend their personal time, energy, talent, and other resources to shape their lives strategy. Clayton Christensen talks about the natural occurrence that takes place when someone wisely invests their resources he states: “When people who have a high need for achievement...they’ll unconsciously allocate it to activities that yield the most tangible accomplishments” (Christensen). After I had read that statement I asked myself “how do I stimulate my ‘high need for accomplishment’.

In addition, I learned that through this week the book report assignment on Launching Leaders gives people strategies and resources and tools they can be adopted in business and personal life. The book provides practical guidance along with principles that are faith-based which will help people become they want. Hitz introduced to the reader the Cycle of Spiritual Guidance as it spells out exactly what a person needs to do to bring their life into alignment with God. (Hitz, 27). These items include: Discover your true identity, Trust your inner voice, come what may, Have faith to act right away, Be at peace with Heaven’s timing, and Live well. Hitz suggests incorporating the Cycle of Spiritual Guidance into one’s personal foundation to actively believe and trust in a higher power. 

Honesty Business Ethics

This week, I appreciated reading the talk on “Making a Living and a Life” by Lynn G. Robbins.  It is interesting to realize that during Adam and Eve’s time, Satan could not tempt them as they were alone in this world until “the human race began to multiply and he could use competition and comparisons to appeal to the pride of man”. After pondering about this truth, pride is the essence of wickedness and sin. We see it in the Bible, in the Book of Mormon (Helaman 3:33-34), and in today’s society. I learned that as the Lord commanded Adam to make our every day’s living through “the sweat of our face”, we need to be cautioned as the Lord warns of a big difference between God and mammon. Mammon is the “love of money” as it is “the root of all evil” (1 Timothy 6:10). I learned that the real distinction of our motives in the work place are not necessarily what is important to us. Rather, our motives should align with the Lord’s objectives in the work place. May each of us are guided by the Spirit in all our employment decisions:

·         Are building His kingdom including strong and valiant families.

·         Are honest in your dealings with your fellowmen and using your God-given talents in their service.

·         Filling your life with good works, that positively impact your community and world.

The grading scale used by Elder Robbins illustrate accurately the different types of employees, business owners, entrepreneur, leaders, parents, children, etc. I think that an entrepreneur that fall under a Category-A person: reflects a person who loves God, and his fellowmen as himself/herself. Let’s be clear and concise, Category-A person loves to God and fellowmen is the primary motivation and not money. (Jacob 2: 18-19).  In summary, according to Elder Robbins if our primary motivation if love of God and fellowmen, then “the working man or women will be a kingdom builder and a full-tithe payer.”

In addition, I learned an invaluable lesson on the importance and accountability of establishing our personal code of ethics. As we learned last week, our ethical guardrails are the things that we can rely on to keep our heading in the right direction. During this week, I enjoyed establishing my 8-9 “I will never …” and “I will always …” personal ethical guardrails that will guide and keep me safe towards stepping stones and ultimately to my personal star destination.

Last but not least, I like to summarize the Harvard Business School (HBS) article on the accomplishments, success and setups of Magdalena Yesil.  It was a great aha moment for me to read and learn about this incredible woman life’s journey. Magdalena Yesil’s early passion for learning and developing skills launched her career in the direction of starting new companies as well as her investor/partners and business founder opportunities. Leveraging from her solid education, talent, and experience, and later as an entrepreneur and investment partner, Magdalena’s thrived first in turning marketing strategies into product design. Later, she went into creating investments into a variety of technology start-ups and successful business ventures. Yasil attributed her success to her parent’s beliefs that she could do anything she wanted to do, if she was willing to pay the price. With her education background in the engineering industry, she found herself solving every hurdle into a tangible solution. Early in age, Magdalena believed that “gender was irrelevant to accomplishment.” With this in mind, she started as a student immigrant from Istanbul, Turkey who showed up in America with no support, or money but had a good sound destination as a goal star in mind “to pursue a technology career in the United States”. After obtaining her Master Degree in Electrical Engineering, she quickly moved up from company to company, acquiring additional experience and talents. She thrived when working with people and acquiring more knowledge. Later in her career she was developing marketing strategies, tactics, promotions, and advertising campaigns. Magdalena continued with determination and ingenuity allowing her to create her niche in business ventures, investments, starts-ups, and venture capitalist opportunities among other business expertise.

Stars, Steppingstones, & My Calling in Life

This week has taught me several Aha/lessons that I would like to share in my entrepreneur journal. 

After completing this week’s reading assignment “Launching Leaders, An Empowering Journey for a New Generation – by Steven Hitz”, there is a reference that stuck out to me that I felt impressed upon to think about it further. Steven says, “Losing my job made me realize just how deeply we humans like being wrapped in our personal security blankets, and when those blankets are ripped away, we can often end up feeling naked, vulnerable and exposed. That’s exactly how I was feeling.” Having a similar “not-so” great experience of losing my job 13 years ago, also left me betrayed as my world had just been taken away. At that moment, I felt as if the message that I was failure, bad, and disappointed. I had to start my life all over again. Looking back, I knew this experience was somehow good for me and my family, but I was not getting the life “specific” lesson. After many hours on my knees along with the love and guidance of family members and great mentors, the inspiration and peace came again as clear as day … “to focus on those things that really matter most in our lives.” During this difficult time, I remembered spending a great deal of time praying by myself and with my family. They “… help me put everything into perspective, and I had to focus on what I could learn from this experience. Although it was hard, I did my best to transform this incredibly painful time into a chance to renew my faith in and commitment to God.” 

Hitz continues: "The only constant in life is God, which is why it’s so important that we learn to bring all aspects of our lives into full alignment with His truth. His timing, and His will.” I could not have said this any better. Thirteen years later, my relationship with Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ is very important in my life today. I enjoy living the gospel, working to constantly increase my faith, serving in my calling along with others, and doing all that I can to be in full alignment with the Lord’s will. Nothing else matters. That is the only way we find peace, and feel good about ourselves and other around us.

Also, I have now a bucket list of 50 incredible things that I can plan to do. This was a fun activity that helped me understand myself better as well as appreciate the time that we are given in this life. There are great things in store.

Another lesson learned that stuck out to me was through the “Reality Checks” section. Jeff Sandefer makes the point: “Visions are not dreams, they are a reality that you hope to create.” This is important to me because I thought my dreams were fictional and unimportant thoughts. It appears this is far from being the truth. This concept is further evidence that my top three items in my bucket list are: 1. Our Own Successful Business; 2. Our Own Successful Paper Asset Investments; 3. Our Own Successful Real Estate Investments.

I am thankful that I selected to take this course in my life as it is truly another manifestation to solidify my entrepreneurial strategies and plans while creating my realities and visions in my life.       

§  

Why do you think Randy Pausch was able to achieve so many of his childhood dreams?

I like how Randy separated the so-called difficulties in our lives versus the brick walls that have been purposely put in place “to let us show our dedication”. These walls are there for those who don’t want to achieve their childhood dreams.” Randy said: “The best of the gold is at the bottom of barrels of crap.” There are a few principles to lead your life so your childhood dreams become a reality.

There are: Show gratitude. Don’t complain. Be good at something, it makes you valuable. Work hard, Find the best in everybody. Be prepared (Luck is truly where preparation meets opportunity). 

He continues: “It’s not about how to achieve your dreams. It’s about how to lead your life. If you lead your life the right way, the karma will take care of itself. The dreams will come to you.”  

§  Do you feel that dreaming is important? Why or why not?

I believe that dreams are important as they are the essence of our character, personality, and well-being. According to Sigmund Freud, dreams are the royal road to the unconscious. He believed they held huge significance to our unconscious thoughts, feelings and desires. When we are dreaming, we are actually thinking, but on a much deeper and focused level; than when we’re awake.   

§  Discuss at least one of your childhood dreams. Explain why you believe you can or cannot achieve this dream.

Every since I remember, I wanted to live far where no one would know me. As a child, my parents traveled with our family and visited many places around my hometown. This fascinated me as I loved traveling and exploring different people. Later in my life, my dreams persisted as I wanted to discover other countries and broaden my horizons creating my future outside and marrying my wife from another country. I thought it should be beautiful, perfect, and amazing to combine our cultures into one. When I was 18 years old, my parents funded an opportunity to explore the world through an exchange student program. Living for 1 year in North Carolina, as an exchange student was dreams started to shape up and become a reality. Ten years later, I married my beautiful wife, in the Washington D. C Temple as our children have served as missionaries for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter day Saints. 

The Start Up of You

Tuesday September 18, 2018 – Proactively contact internal partners prior to launching client kickoff meeting

Today, I felt abandoned and embarrassed as I thought I was ready when I setup my project kickoff client meeting without making sure my technical partners where present (by accepting my meeting invite) and engaged in our new project.

As part of my personal checklist, I completely disregarded the notion that all my technical partners had received and acknowledged their attendance to my client kickoff meeting.     

Refer to Lessons Learned Section

Project manager should allow enough time ahead of the meeting to allow participants and others to gather or compile information for reference. It is best practice to contact internal partners and discuss ideas and valuable information for reference.

Gathering preliminary information and lessons learned meetings are key success criteria for implementing continuous improvement. These reviews give everyone a chance to freely discuss the good and bad aspects of the project so that good practices are repeated and bad practices are eliminated.