When you're the CEO, the entire business takes its cues from you. You are the nucleus of the cell, containing and then spreading the cultural DNA. So it follows that when you want to lead others effectively, you start by leading yourself effectively. The two fundamental questions you have to answer (if you want to make progress) is "Who am I?" and "What do I want?".
#1 - Who are you?
The first question revolves around your self-image. It's the combination of your values, your talents, your habits of thought (attitudes and assumptions), your energy level, your drive, etc. This is a crucial question, because the strength of your venture relies upon its alignment with you. Your business will thrive or struggle based upon whether you are pulling upon your natural talents or fighting your shortcomings.
You cannot sustain behavior that is out of alignment with your self-image. Moreover, you have an internal need to be right. This means that if you think of yourself as a disciplined, focused performer you will feel frustrated when you are not performing in a disciplined, focused manner. If deep down you question your worthiness you will find ways to sabotage yourself. You prove your self-image to yourself every day.
Perhaps a metaphor can help you visualize your self-image. Do you see yourself as a Sergeant, one who is side by side with your team and getting your hands dirty? Or do you see yourself as a Colonel, commanding a larger force from an office setup more distant from the action? Are you a Chef, the trend-setter, the source of innovative recipes and presentation that attract discerning customers to your restaurant? Are you a Coach, whose intention is to assemble an outstanding team, encourage them, and then let them play the game they know how to play?
#2 - What do you want?
Purpose or destination is an answer to this question. What do you want your long term outcome or impact to be? But also consider more down to earth things like how much of your waking hours you want to devote to work. Do you want to be in an office or in the field? Seeing customers or behind the scenes? Traveling a lot or sleeping in your own bed?
Think about whether you want to create a lot of jobs or want to maintain a small crew that know you so well they can finish your sentences. Think about (if you have kids) whether your intention is to hand them a legacy in the form of the business.
One of the challenges inherent in the "What do you want?" question is that your answer will likely change over time. You might start out part time and gather steam as you go, willing to be all in with your concept. You might realize from the outset that you will want to cash out someday, so you will plan your eventual dismount from the very beginning. The entire business, from plan to organizational structure to product or service aligns with that model.
Every CEO is different. But what all CEOs have in common is that their motivational fuel is reflected in the business. You can choose to work 18- hour days or 8-day months. What is important, though is that you are choosing based upon your desire for achievement AND your enjoyment. You have only one life. Build one that makes you smile when you look in the mirror.
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