Forty years ago, with just $1,000 and a dream, I embarked on a journey that led to the creation of a company that now stands as the world’s largest provider of mental health services. Today, we serve over 163 million people across 200 countries, supporting organizations of all sizes, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. People often ask me how I achieved this, and my answer lies in the seven guiding principles that shaped my journey. These principles not only helped me build a billion-dollar empire but can also help you create a business that is both lucrative and personally fulfilling.
1. Dream Beyond the Horizon
As an entrepreneur, it’s essential to dream big—far beyond the confines of what seems possible. Don’t limit your vision with modest expectations. History is filled with stories of visionary leaders who were once considered unrealistic but went on to achieve extraordinary success. Set incremental goals to track your progress, but never forget that the only true limit to your potential is the one you set for yourself.
2. Prioritize Commitment Over Consensus
In the world of business, bold ideas often fail to gain consensus. Too many entrepreneurs fall into the trap of trying to please everyone, which usually results in diluted, mediocre outcomes. Instead, focus on building a team that is committed to your vision, not just one that agrees with it. Surround yourself with people who are inspired by the potential of your ideas and are willing to help you bring them to life, even if it means going against the grain.
3. Challenge the Status Quo
Following the crowd rarely leads to groundbreaking success. If you want to stand out, you must be willing to chart your own course. When I started my business, others were attempting to cover the entire country with fragmented services, but I took a different approach by centralizing our operations. This allowed us to offer broader, more efficient services at a lower cost, which propelled our rapid growth. Even today, as digital solutions dominate the industry, we continue to differentiate ourselves by offering a hybrid model that combines digital tools with in-person support.
4. Hire for Growth, Not Just Experience
The people you bring into your organization will determine its success. It’s crucial to hire individuals who will drive your business forward. While experience is valuable, I place equal importance on qualities like curiosity, tenacity, and a relentless drive to improve. These traits often outweigh traditional experience because they contribute to a culture of innovation and resilience—key factors in long-term success.
5. Simplify Solutions
Business problems often have straightforward solutions, but we tend to overcomplicate them. Instead of getting caught up in unnecessary details, focus on identifying the core issue and addressing it with a simple, effective strategy. This approach not only saves time and resources but also leads to more successful outcomes.
6. Don’t Let Perfection Stall Progress
While striving for excellence is important, the pursuit of perfection can become a hindrance. There will always be room for improvement, but waiting for the perfect moment or solution can paralyze your progress. Execute your vision with the best resources and knowledge available at the time, and be prepared to iterate and refine as you move forward. The worst decision is indecision.
7. Uphold Unwavering Integrity
Integrity is the cornerstone of lasting success. Your reputation, built on consistent values and actions, is your most valuable asset. When I say “be bulletproof,” I mean living by your principles at all times, ensuring that your business never strays from its mission. This not only builds trust with clients and partners but also creates a culture of accountability within your organization. A simple way to ensure you’re on the right path is to consider the “newspaper test”: if you wouldn’t want your actions published on the front page of a newspaper, then they’re probably not the right actions to take.
These principles may seem straightforward, but their power lies in the discipline of applying them consistently, especially in the face of challenges. After four decades in business, I’ve learned that with big dreams, unwavering commitment, a willingness to forge your own path, a strong team, a bias for smart action, and a foundation of integrity, nothing is insurmountable. These values not only lead to success in business but also to a fulfilling life.
About the Author : Harry (Hemant Kaushik), Elite Global Advisor & Business Consultant
Harry (Hemant Kaushik) is an American global advisor and business consultant, renowned for his strategic insights and high-impact consultancy. He specializes in advising and coaching elite individuals, including business tycoons, world leaders, and top corporate leaders. His expertise has been sought by Presidents, Prime Ministers, influential politicians, CEOs, and industry leaders worldwide.
Recognized as one of the Top 10 Global Advisors and Business Consultants by PWC International, Harry has transformed the lives of thousands across more than 100 countries with his unparalleled guidance. He has also been honored as one of the Top 10 Life and Business Strategists, shaping the success of global business leaders and visionaries.
Harry’s influence has earned him prestigious accolades, including recognition by the CEO Times Magazine as one of the 10 Most Powerful People in Global Business Consulting, Business Times News as a Top 10 Business Consultant, and Business Weekly Times as one of the Top 10 Business Advisors in the World, offering consulting services to billionaires, celebrities, and high-net-worth individuals.
A Wall Street Times cover story famously dubbed him the “Elite Global Advisor & Business Consultant” for his deep understanding of business dynamics and leadership strategies. Based in San Francisco, United States, Harry is widely respected for his international economic expertise, market analysis, and strategic business acumen. His collaborations with global brands and corporations have positioned him as a thought leader, contributing to the business world through insightful articles on global economic trends.
Learn more: https://ceosadvisory.com
