[ad_1]
The opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.
Many startup founders become CEOs of their own companies. However, the proportion of founders is remain CEOs decline over time. Three years later, only 50% of founders are still CEOs and only 25% reach the IPO stage.
To remain successful as a CEO, you need to be highly motivated, driven, curious, and above all, have a desire to keep learning. As someone who has gone from being a founder to his CEO and is surrounded by a network of fellow CEOs, I know that most people are “born with” many of these qualities as part of their DNA. I can definitely say that. A commitment to lifelong learning and developing new skills, as well as the ability to build a Rolodex of knowledgeable colleagues, is especially true of the entrepreneur and CEO of his company’s success in an evolving technology environment.
I would like to share some tips and personal methods to further fuel your desire for knowledge and continuous learning to stay successful.
Related: 4 ways continuous learning can make you and your business unstoppable
Get the right kind of information
It is said that CEOs read an average of 4 to 5 books every month. Compare that to the overall average of two to three books per year, and it’s clear that successful CEOs take continuous learning seriously. In addition to listening to podcasts and audiobooks, it’s also essential to set aside time to read. Instead of listening to music, I listen to music during my morning workout, long drive, or commute. Busy CEOs can’t afford to empty their inboxes. So, create some forced downtime and use some of that time to learn and listen to sources you respect and trust.
Finding relevant business-related resources is important, but learning can and should come from a variety of sources. Even before war broke out in Israel, where I am based, I relied on his Torah, the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, for historical knowledge and guidance. I began studying weekly Torah portions, also known as Parshat Hashavua, to find wisdom that applies to life, leadership, and business. Utilizing religious and cultural sources of inspiration outside of typical business, whatever they may be, can expand your knowledge far more than reading or listening to anything directly related to your industry.
Take seriously the lessons learned from networking
Building a network of fellow entrepreneurs and CEOs provides another valuable knowledge resource. ICON, an organization that bridges Israeli and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs, helped me find someone to share my experience. I now have people I can connect with and rely on when I need the perspective of others who understand my industry and the complex demands of leading a company.
Don’t assume that you always know what’s best. Be open to fresh ideas and perspectives from others you trust. It helps you identify possibilities that might otherwise be overlooked. When a significant new technology or event impacts your business, you want people to talk about the potential benefits and risks it may create. Surround yourself with positive, motivated people to motivate you.
Related: Why lifelong learning is the key to entrepreneurial success — and how to embrace the lifelong learner in you
value the lessons learned from the mistakes of others
Even Jeff Bezos and Elon Musk started companies that failed before they became successful. While it’s helpful to hear what business leaders do right, there are equally valuable lessons in their mistakes.
I regularly hear leaders and founders of similar companies being interviewed. I learned a lot from a recent interview with his CEO at Fiverr, Micha Kaufman. Interviewees often share important turning points in their journeys, what went wrong, what went right, and how they work better with board members. I’m sure you all take the time to learn from your mistakes, but if you can benefit from the hard lessons from other business leaders, you’ll be far more likely to learn and anticipate preventable potential problems. is a low cost way to do so.
Stay agile to make the most of the market knowledge you discover
If you look in the right place, you need to listen to the knowledge and data that is readily available. Then we’ll explore how to actually do it. Lately, generative AI has been testing entrepreneurs and leaders and their ability to adapt to the company’s interests. CEOs who moved quickly to find and learn data, use cases, and information quickly and incorporate Gen AI into their repertoire are already seeing benefits. we know it is.
When new data, developments, or technology emerges that poses a threat or complicates your current strategy, don’t freeze or butt your head in. Find ways to adapt, such as leveraging your network, finding podcasts that cover the topic, and seeking advice from your board and team members. Fueling yourself and your company with a continuous flow of new knowledge from trusted resources is key.
Related: Why continuous learning is important for entrepreneurs and their teams
The CEO journey is full of amazing thrills, common setbacks, and ever-changing challenges. The best leaders are those who never stop asking questions. They incorporate insights from a variety of sources and embrace change, even if the change is frightening or uncertain. Sometimes you need to act, move and take calculated risks. That’s the core of being an entrepreneur.
Make sure your calendar is filled with time for learning and discovery. Change what flows to your AirPods during your workout. The ability to learn, adapt, and continue to gather knowledge from thoughtful sources will set the company’s path to long-term growth and success.
[ad_2]
Source link
