The inner circle advantage: What the GenZ is missing out on

I very recently quit working with an esteemed government institution as a mentor for their multiple startup incubators. My acceptance of their invitation was inspired by the abundantly available energetic ecosystem of the GenZ and the government-backed infrastructure. Over time, the realization that my mentorship underperformed the GenZ’s expectations with their exposure to social media and the hype of Venture Capital online quietly seeped in. Maybe, I am old school, but below are my thoughts, which I wish I could share with them before I left.

Entrepreneurship is a choice

If you don’t want to work for somebody, you must find a way to gather people to your side; either as followers, customers, or investors. To achieve this, there is no easy way out. You will have to spend years, endure pain and suffering while you learn that nothing will attract people to you as much as your values. Invest time in building the inner circle, even if it takes years. Growth happens, even when you will never be able to outperform your inner circle, yet knowing you will be taken care of. You grow your inner circle by spending years because the basis for friendship, relationship, partnership – isn’t the proximity or time spent together – it’s the values you have in common…. even though you could be in different time zones spread over the years. I mention this emphatically.

This is the missed understanding of most young entrepreneurs today… who seek instant gratification – quick investment for their startup! Instant gratification is a self-imposed mental handicap because it brings forth impatience and shortsightedness, causing to sacrifice long-term goals for instant pleasures.

Live frugally to keep your mind satisfied

The greatest wealth is to live frugally and be content with little because there is no limit to keeping the mind satisfied. Live frugally to keep your mind satisfied, in order to focus on what is important – creating value for your customers. Wearing branded clothes to impress others is understandable, but the truth is, the only thing that truly impresses others is the value you create for them. The labels on your clothes don’t define your worth, the impact you make on others does. Invest in experiences, invest in personal growth, and invest in creating value for others, for that is where true fulfillment and legacy lie.

Win the game with merit

Does your startup need influencers or influential people, not just for endorsement but as actual customers? Influencers can go rogue, but influential people retain their values, and reaching out to them could be your startup’s tipping point.

Entrepreneurship is a long journey – don’t get impressed with small wins

Boomers worked one job for 40 years. Millennials work 40 jobs in a year. Your generation is now asking why do even jobs exist. And, we understand your anxiety. Your content going viral can not be a marketing strategy, at best it can be a prayer. Likes don’t pay bills. Views don’t build wealth. And going viral online doesn’t guarantee income. Social media at best could help validate your startup’s value proposition. Don’t spend much time than required on social media.

As you navigate the world of entrepreneurship, remember that it’s not just about building a successful business, but also about building a community. Focus on creating value, and the right people will follow.

Building a strong network

While networking is overrated, building a strong network of like-minded individuals can be beneficial. Attend industry events, join online communities, and most importantly connect with people who share your values.

Staying focused

With the constant noise of social media and the pressure to stay relevant, it’s easy to get distracted. Stay focused on your goals, and don’t let external validation dictate your self-worth.

A final word

Entrepreneurship is a journey, not a destination. It takes time, effort, and perseverance. Remember to stay humble, stay grounded, and focus on creating value. With the right mindset and approach, you can build a successful business and a lasting legacy.

Remember, our time is limited

Entrepreneurship is rewarding. Eventually, you will realize that your consistent efforts will only increase the number of your employees that depend on your monthly paychecks to repay their loans installments. As you build, and it may take years, be aware that time always knows when to show up and whom to bring…. everything happens for a reason. Remember, when your time is up, you take nothing but memories, and leave nothing but footprints…

Be the best you can be to win the game !