Blog
From the outside, things do look easy. That's what happens when we see success. We see how easy it looks. We don't see the reality behind the success. One of the worst things you can do is underestimate the work and the courage it takes to
Blog
I don't find mass market appealing. If you have to work with many people at a low price point then your job is to get distribution and transact as much as possible. If you are starting a business, you might find the right market and tap into it.
Blog
It is difficult, and almost impossible to predict the changes coming in our industries. The trick is not digging our heels into the conventional way we may have approached things, but it is in being able to pivot when change hits us. We must change. Being able to maneuver in
Blog
You may be thinking about building something. Perhaps you have dreams of building a business with employees, square footage and equipment. Or you might see an opportunity in a market and want to automate it with software. I have been a part of many ventures and can see the allure
Blog
When I am on the road, I love to experience new services. It is a break and an adventure. However, when I have a lot on my mind, there is solace in franchises and brands that are consistent whether I am in Texas or New York. Restaurants, bookstores, coffee shops
Blog
Feedback is critical for success. We have ideas all the time but they have to be tested in reality. The universe has a way of giving us feedback to help us along the journey towards success. Feedback comes from many different places. The ignorant or foolish person cannot recognize this.
Blog
Before you build something, sell something first. There's a common safety zone which pseudo-entrepreneurs find refuge in when launching a venture or trying something new - they overdesign. It's safer in that space. You can imagine what the world needs and wants and build it. There&
Blog
What can't you learn? It is all available now. What will you learn? That's a huge differentiator between the new haves and have-nots. There is not a gap in access anymore. That was taken care of once we got online, went social and could search. I
Blog
I encourage entrepreneurs, business owners and knowledge workers to embrace failure. Failure is not the goal. It is part of the process of learning and getting to the ultimate goal we set. The problem is that there is rarely a straight path, especially if we are innovating with layers of
Blog
When you are dealing with the vast uncertainty of entrepreneurial ventures, there may be lies in your head. The lie to never quit or only persevere is one-dimensional. It can be dogmatic to one's detriment. One of the traits I have observed in the instincts of true entrepreneurs
Blog
With SXSW in town, there's a lot of get togethers. I had a good time connecting with people from all over at a recent happy hour put together by GotoMeeting. Had a few celebrities in the crowd. The most interesting and engaging person I connected with was AJ
Blog
The elusive aspect of knowledge work is that many people cannot see the differences that skill bears on problems. We were able to differentiate more easily with physical challenges. If a guy is stronger than you and can pick up more, then moving items will be easier for the stronger