In Real Leaders Don’t Follow, author Steve Tobak shares how true entrepreneurs can start, build, and run successful companies in highly competitive global markets. Drawing from his insider experience, Tobak offers unique insights to help you make informed business and leadership decisions. In this edited excerpt, he uncovers the truth behind six popular myths, guiding you in deciding whether entrepreneurship is the right path for you.
The entrepreneurial world has always been about challenging the status quo and questioning conventional wisdom to discover new and better ways of doing things. Every great American company has emerged from this mindset. If you’re just going to follow the crowd and do what everyone else is doing, you might as well get a job working for someone else.
Today, however, there’s a loud and pervasive message insisting that everyone should quit their jobs and become entrepreneurs. The prevailing narrative claims that delaying this decision brings you closer to a life of poverty and regret.
But that’s simply not true. The idea that you can’t have a fulfilling career, be remarkably happy, and even get rich working for someone else is perhaps the most ludicrous, disingenuous, and irresponsible myth out there.
Entrepreneurship can be incredibly rewarding, and starting your own business might be the best decision you ever make—but it’s not for everyone. Before you take the plunge, consider these six myths that need to be exposed:
1. Myth: Entrepreneurship is the only way to get rich.
– This is a complete misconception. While many of the richest people in America are entrepreneurs or come from entrepreneurial families, that doesn’t mean they were always self-employed. Many started in corporate jobs before venturing out on their own. Moreover, many successful individuals in corporate roles have also accumulated significant wealth. The notion that entrepreneurship is the only path to riches is a false dichotomy.
2. Myth: Follow your passion or a cause, not the money.
– This myth oversimplifies reality. While some people find success by pursuing their passion, others achieve financial stability first, allowing them the freedom to later pursue their passions. Passion alone won’t pay the bills; balancing passion with practical considerations is crucial for success.
3. Myth: Entrepreneurship is more fulfilling and will make you happier.
– Fulfillment doesn’t depend solely on owning a business. Great work and personal satisfaction can be found in any work environment, whether in a large corporation, a small company, or your own business. Entrepreneurship comes with unique challenges that aren’t always fulfilling or happiness-inducing for everyone.
4. Myth: Entrepreneurs have more freedom, less stress, and no bosses.
– Running a business often means working long hours, wearing multiple hats, and dealing with significant financial pressures. Entrepreneurs may answer to customers, investors, and regulatory bodies, all of which can be as demanding as any boss.
5. Myth: Corporate America is evil.
– Every large corporation began as someone’s small business. The idea that entrepreneurship is inherently virtuous while corporations are evil is misguided. Both are run by people, and any issues within a corporation stem from leadership, not from the concept of corporate America itself.
6. Myth: Technology destroyed all the jobs.
– The idea that technology has eradicated jobs is misleading. While technology has changed the job market, particularly in manufacturing, it has also created the most lucrative and fastest-growing industry: technology itself. The key to employment today is having the right skills and education.
Don’t be swayed by popular myths. Your career is your own business. Choose the path that’s right for you, at the right time for you. Follow your own path, and everything will work out fine.
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
