We’ve noticed, while working around the world, that entrepreneurs sometimes limit themselves. They say things like:

Entrepreneurs and leaders around the globe invest in themselves through time, interactions, reading books, and exploring new ideas and thoughts.

Entrepreneurs frequently ask for advice as they are in the process of discovery for their business.

Working with entrepreneurs for nearly a quarter century, I’ve come to realize that the best time to ask for money is when you don’t need it, or when you already have it. The worst time to ask for money is when you need it.

It’s a question that plays like the game of rock, paper, scissors — do you write your plan on a napkin, a piece of paper, on a rock, or in software? Which is the best?

Look around globally, and unfortunately you will see many great examples of bad leadership. Just holding a title doesn’t impart success as a leader.

To me, it seems that leaders that have compassion or empathy are disappearing from the world stage, with very few exceptions.

Whether you are in the startup stage or the growth stage, you will face challenges. They may look different, but the feeling is somewhat the same.

We’ve met a lot of entrepreneurs from all around the world, who say things like:

• It’s never been done this way

• I’d never reach that goal

• No one would buy this

Are you building a job for yourself, or building a company?

The difference between the two is simple:

Building a job is networking to find gigs for yourself, just so you can get paid.

Building a company is looking for jobs or gigs for the entire team to get paid, not just me.

One thing I’ve learned in my years of working with entrepreneurs, small business owners, and the organizations that support them is that a mismatch in perception is almost guaranteed in every scenario.