Inspirational lessons from successful visionaries

The world of entrepreneurship is in the spotlight these days. With the presence of the internet, it’s possible to prosper without the need for large investments, which arouses the interest of those thinking of taking a risk and setting up their own business.

Realising the dream of entrepreneurship and creating your own business is an aspiration for many. However, it is crucial to be prepared to face a path of hard work, dedication, resilience and determination in order to realise your projects.

If you already own or want to start your own business, here are some tips from entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable success in their companies. These stories are sure to inspire you and provide valuable lessons.

Drew Houston

co-founder of Dropbox

“Don’t worry about failure. You only have to be right once.” The phrase comes from Houston, who is 40 years old and has a fortune valued at 2.2 billion USD. In 2013, at an inaugural lecture at MIT, the entrepreneur spoke of the importance of having the right people around. “They say you become the average of the five people you spend the most time with. One thing I’ve learnt is that surrounding yourself with inspiring people is just as important as being talented or working hard.” Houston also said that “the happiest and most successful people I know don’t just love what they do, but above all, they are obsessed with solving an important problem that touches them personally”.

Tony Hsieh

Founder of Zappos

“Chase your vision, not the money. Money is just a consequence.” Hsieh emphasises the importance of believing in the business vision rather than focusing solely on immediate profit. Working solely for money is superficial and has an expiry date. By pursuing an authentic and inspiring vision, money becomes a natural consequence of genuine and motivating work.

Jeff Bezos

Founder of Amazon

Jeff Bezos, one of the richest people in the world, is a visionary known for his business acumen and disruptive thinking. Here are five notable phrases from the man who turned an idea to sell books online into a global e-commerce empire: “If you’re not stubborn, you’ll give up trying too soon. And if you’re not flexible, you’ll bang your head against the wall and not see a different solution to a problem you’re trying to solve”; “If you don’t want to be criticised, never do anything”; “If you only do the things you know will work, you’ll let a lot of opportunities pass you by”; “You don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to become great”; “Hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard”.

Steve Jobs

one of the founders of Apple

Recognised as one of the greatest visionaries in the history of personal technology, Steve Jobs states that “Your work will fill a large part of your life and the only way to be truly satisfied is to do what you believe is great work. And the only way to do great work is to love what you do.” The man who is largely responsible for the world’s technological evolution also added: “Those who are crazy enough to believe they can change the world are the ones who really change it.”

Bill Gates

one of the founders of Microsoft

As one of the pioneers in the evolution of computers for ordinary people, Bill Gates teaches us that customers should be the focus of all companies: “Your most dissatisfied customers are your greatest source of learning.”

William Rosenberg

creator of the Dunkin’ Donuts brand

“Show me someone who’s never made a mistake and I’ll show you someone who’s never done anything.” Even though he stopped studying before reaching secondary school, the entrepreneur was one of the pioneers of franchising in the world, entering the business in the 50s.

Walt Disney

co-founder of The Walt Disney Company

To get out of your comfort zone and face the “real world” once and for all, you’ll need a good dose of courage. The risks are many, but the rewards are even greater. Perhaps that’s why Walt Disney immortalised the phrase: “All your dreams can come true if you have the courage to pursue them”. Even after his death, The Walt Disney Company is still worth an estimated $45.5 billion.

Peter Berg

Founder of October Three

“People are the most important asset in your business. Attracting as much talent as possible will be an incredible differentiator. What’s more, hiring better will allow you to hire fewer people. One good programmer is better than two average programmers.”

May these words serve as a guide and inspiration as you walk the path as an entrepreneur or even in your career as an employee, reminding us that success is not only a consequence of effort, but also of passion, vision and the courage to face the unknown. Entrepreneurship and even a professional career is a journey full of learning, innovation and the daring to pursue our dreams with determination.