When last have you been asked what your story as an entrepreneur is? If you did answer, how unique was your story, and does it reflect anything about your navigation to reach a strategic vision? If you are an entrepreneur over 50 or even 60, you might probably feel a bit offended if you get asked this question. How the hell do people not know what your story as an entrepreneur is?
When last did you have an ‘Oh Sh*t’ moment?
This is a topic that we have discussed previously, but will probably bring it up to infinity and beyond. Yes, there are entrepreneurs over 50 who do not have a story of experiencing an oh-sh*t moment, but I cannot imagine how extraordinarily boring life would be without the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. I for one, have experienced a couple of these moments.
These ups and down moments of entrepreneurship are not just what makes us human, but it is the energy that propels us forward to a brand new vision. We are not God which means there is no way that we can predict the future to the tee. It is physically impossible and a fact that we have to take into account. But these oh-sh*t moments help us to evaluate our situation at that moment, realign our stories to our strategic vision, and move forward with confidence. One unique step at a time.
How unique should our stories as entrepreneurs over 50 be?
This is a very good question indeed. Is it possible to have a unique story if you are an entrepreneur over 50? We will have to book a week-long retreat to debate this question. As an entrepreneur over 50 that has been around for a very long time, we tend to think everything we touch is unique. Everything we do is worth buying. Reality check: this is a question you have to keep on asking yourself, no matter how unique you feel your story as an entrepreneur sounds unique to you.
There are a zillion very eager new entrepreneurs waiting in line to take over your position. And because they are brand new to the scene, they have new ideas. New inspiration and brand new energy. And yes, you might already be planning your retirement and for your kids to take your business over. What are they going to take over if you have a host of competition with fresh ideas?
Do I need a strategic vision as an entrepreneur over 50?
This might sound like repetition, but once again this is a very good question indeed. If you have been a successful entrepreneur for 30 or 40 years, you might believe you are on the right path in any case. Yes, we are including the entrepreneur over 60 in this equation as well. One could become highly technical with Bell Curve explanations and a whole bunch of executive coaching mumble jumble, but the reality is that life is changing. Business is changing. Whatever worked for you yesterday, might just not work tomorrow.
A conversation about where you are and where you want to be might not be such a bad idea after all. Who says you should retire at 60? What would have happened if Warren Buffet retired at 65? Exactly. We would not have known of the existence of Warren Buffet. And yes, you do not need to be the next Warren Buffet. You could enjoy watching the seagulls from the patio of your seaside holiday home. Our tour Route 66 or cycle the Swiss Alps. This might make you insanely happy till death do us part, or not. Who will know? Till then, I suggest we chat about your strategic vision and where you are heading right at this very moment.
How unique is your entrepreneur over 50 story?
You will be hearing a lot more about my SUN theory going forward, as I do believe that we all need a Story of Unique Navigation to propel us forward as entrepreneurs in general, but most of all as entrepreneurs over 50. For now, the big question that I want to leave you with is: “How unique is your story of unique navigation.” How unique is your business story? If you have to give your elevator pitch to someone brand new, what is the chance that he or she will be asking: “Wow, that sounds interesting. Tell me more”?
Whether you are ready for one-on-one coaching or group coaching and support, we are here to help you. Let’s connect.
