This article has been inspired by the song “I am Light” by India Arie. This is part one of two.
When studying for my Psychology degree, one of the first assignments I had to complete was creating a questionnaire and asking people, “Who Are You?”.
I got many replies from people like a mother, a father, husband, wife, brother, sister, team leader, manager, banker, shop assistant, etc. You get the picture. But really. Who are you at your core?
Unveiling the Core
In the hustle and bustle of the entrepreneurial journey, amidst the pitch meetings, business plans, and market research, it’s easy to lose sight of a fundamental question: Who are you at your core? Beyond the titles, the roles, and the goals lies the essence of your being—the compass that guides your endeavours and shapes your impact on the world.
The Surface vs. The Core
It is easy to get entangled in external facets such as—job titles, accolades, and social media profiles flaunting success stories. However, the real power lies beneath the surface. In understanding and embracing your core, you unearth the authenticity that fuels lasting success.
Peeling the Layers
Imagine yourself as an onion—layered, complex, and sometimes tear-inducing. Each layer represents an aspect of your identity: your skills, experiences, education, and professional achievements. But, at the core lies the heart of your uniqueness, untouched by external validations or societal expectations.
Defining Values
Your core is intricately tied to your values—the principles that define what matters most to you. As an aspiring entrepreneur, clarifying and aligning your endeavours with your core values becomes your North Star. Are you driven by innovation, social impact, or perhaps a combination of both? Understanding this is the cornerstone of building a business that resonates with your authentic self.
Passions as the Guiding Light
Entrepreneurial ventures demand perseverance and resilience. It is your passions that serve as the fuel for these qualities. What activities make your heart race with excitement? What challenges ignite your problem-solving spark? Your core passions, when woven into your professional journey, not only sustain you but also inspire those around you.
Failure and Growth
The entrepreneurial path is riddled with challenges and setbacks. Yet, it’s in these moments that your core is tested and refined. How do you react when faced with adversity? What lessons do you draw from failure? Your core values and beliefs will determine not only how you weather storms but also how you emerge from them—resilient, wiser, and ever-evolving.
Authentic Leadership
In the realm of entrepreneurship, authentic leadership is a priceless currency. Your team, clients, and investors are not just buying into your product or service; they are investing in you—your vision, your integrity, and your authenticity. To lead authentically is to lead from your core, inspiring trust and loyalty.
The Constant Unveiling
Discovering your core is not a one-time affair; it’s an ongoing process. As you navigate the entrepreneurial landscape, your experiences, insights, and reflections continually shape and reshape your core. Embrace this evolution, for it is the key to staying relevant, innovative, and true to your purpose.
In Conclusion
Beyond the spreadsheets and elevator pitches, take the time to delve into the depths of your being. Who are you at your core? What legacy do you wish to leave in the world? It is in the excavation of these fundamental questions that you find the enduring fuel for your entrepreneurial journey. As you embark on this adventure, let your core be your compass, guiding you through the complexities, uncertainties, and triumphs that define the path of entrepreneurship.
You can read part two of this article here.
Also read: Believe in Yourself: 5 Ways to Build Your Confidence and Successfully Start a Business