Why Being an Entrepreneur Is One of the Greatest Journeys You Can Take

Being an entrepreneur goes beyond merely managing a business; it’s about creating something from scratch, embracing risks when others hesitate, and possessing the resilience to persevere through challenges. It’s a journey of continuous growth, learning, and pushing boundaries. After spending over 25 years in #EO (Entrepreneurs’ Organization) and YPO (Young Presidents’ Organization), I've realized that entrepreneurship is not a solitary endeavour; it’s a collaborative effort.

The essence of entrepreneurship transcends status or titles. It revolves around embracing full responsibility, where you own every achievement and setback, addressing genuine problems by building businesses on effective solutions rather than mere ideas, committing to ongoing growth, and creating a legacy that ensures a lasting impact beyond profit. No one bestows the title of entrepreneur upon you; you earn it through action, persistence, and adaptability.

Throughout my journey, I’ve been fortunate to be guided, challenged, and inspired by remarkable individuals who have influenced my mindset, leadership, and business approach. Through EO, YPO, and my EO Forum, I’ve had the honor of receiving mentorship and peer to peer dialogue. My EO Forum group, which includes Nick Thompson, Glenn Street, Steve Mamchar, Angela Chuy, Mercedes Savard, Krista Hermanson, and Jenn Lofgren CPHR, MCC, ICD.D, has served as my sounding board, support network, and a continual source of wisdom. Each of these mentors has imparted invaluable lessons — whether in leadership, resilience, business strategy, or the importance of uplifting others.

To thrive in entrepreneurship, surround yourself with individuals who inspire you to improve. The most effective mentors will challenge your mindset, keep you accountable, provide fresh perspectives, and support your growth not just as a business owner but as a leader and individual. I’ve had mentors throughout my career, and I continue to seek guidance while offering it to others. The best entrepreneurs are eternal learners and teachers.

I wouldn’t be where I am today without the mentors and business leaders who guided me. That’s why I believe in paying it forward — whether through Shed Talk with Kevin Halliday, mentoring fellow entrepreneurs, or sharing my journey. If there’s one certainty I hold, it’s that entrepreneurship is the most profound personal development journey you’ll ever embark on. It will challenge you, test your limits, and prompt growth in unexpected ways. But with the right support, the possibilities are endless.

So, if you find yourself on this path, seek out mentors, remain dedicated, and never cease to learn. Being an entrepreneur is one of the most rewarding pursuits you can undertake. Many believe that being an entrepreneur simply means owning a business, being your own boss, or generating income. But the reality is that entrepreneurship is about crafting something greater than yourself. It’s about leading yourself first, addressing overlooked issues, and having the tenacity to persevere when faced with adversity. The title of entrepreneur isn’t a self-claimed label; it’s a distinction earned through action, resilience, and a willingness to embrace risks when others hesitate.

Entrepreneurs are not born; they are developed. To truly earn this title, you must embrace complete ownership, where you take responsibility for every failure, victory, and decision. You should address real challenges, as the most successful businesses are built on meaningful solutions, and learn to fail forward because failure is not the enemy; quitting is. Adopt a long-term mindset, recognizing that entrepreneurship is not about quick profits; it’s about creating something sustainable that leaves an impact. The key is to start anyway and learn as you progress.

Entrepreneurship can often feel like a solitary journey, but your strength relies on those surrounding you. A solid support system and mentors are essential. A great mentor or peer group will encourage you to step outside your comfort zone, provide a reality check when necessary, hold you accountable for your goals, and help you uncover solutions you may have overlooked.

The best entrepreneurs never stop learning, which means they never stop needing mentors. I continue to seek mentorship today while also mentoring others. This process is cyclical — you gain insights, share them, and continue to grow. The moment you believe you "know it all" is when your evolution halts.

My path as an entrepreneur didn’t begin overnight. It started with taking risks, learning from setbacks, and surrounding myself with the right people. With Spindle, Stairs & Railings, we developed an industry-leading company by innovating, taking calculated risks, and staying ahead of the curve. Our success was not solely about business; it was about continuous evolution, learning from those around me, and remaining committed to our vision.

Then there’s ShedTalk — what started as a simple concept evolved into a movement and a platform for transformation. This achievement wasn’t by chance; it happened because I recognized an opportunity, took decisive action, and refused to quit when faced with challenges.

If there’s one lesson to take away, let it be this: entrepreneurship begins with leading yourself. You don’t wait for approval. You don’t make excuses. You commit to the process, learn from every setback, and continue moving forward. Find mentors, take action, and build something that addresses a real need. Remember, you don’t become an entrepreneur simply by holding a title; you earn it through your creations.