True Courage: Three Simple Truths All Leaders Should Embrace

“The impediment to action advances action. What stands in the way becomes the way.” ~ Marcus Aurelius

Ask any successful leader, especially founders and entrepreneurs, what skill they value most and you’ll get a variety of answers. Yet amid the differing perspectives, there remains one common denominator: Drive and determination They form the backbone of business success. But don’t worry, mental toughness is a skill anyone can learn.

According to a survey conducted by National Business Capital, approximately 38% of entrepreneurs say self-discipline is a crucial factor in their achievements. This statistic underscores the critical importance of unwavering determination and drive when it comes to launching and sustaining a business or building and leading teams in an established organization. While it’s easy to get excited about a new project or fast-growing initiatives, many falter when the road becomes arduous. The true test of an effective leader or entrepreneur lies in the ability to get up every morning, regardless of how daunting the challenges may seem, and relentlessly pursue success. Face every adversity, every success, and every failure. Learn. And keep going. Every day.

The essence of drive and determination

What exactly does it constitute? drive and determinationAren’t they the same attribute? Drive is the inner force that drives entrepreneurs to keep going with passion, even when the odds seem insurmountable. “Drive is the tireless energy and enthusiasm that keeps entrepreneurs going, even in the face of adversity,” explains Hakki Akdeniz, an entrepreneur who went from being homeless to owning successful businesses, including Elia in the river – An exceptional restaurant that I had the pleasure of trying recently during a business trip to Miami. As an entrepreneur, I can rarely contain my curiosity about a founder’s journey when I discover an amazing product or service. So I tend to ask.

On the other hand, determination It is the determined commitment to overcome setbacks and stay the course, no matter the obstacles. Together, these qualities fuel the entrepreneurial spirit and form the basis for sustained growth.

Truth 1 – Navigating uncertainty

Uncertainty is an inherent aspect of both leadership and entrepreneurship. Markets evolve, consumer preferences change, and unforeseen challenges arise. However, it is the ability to navigate this uncertainty that separates successful leaders from those who fail. Entrepreneurs driven by determination, for example, see uncertainty as part of the process and remain steadfast in their goals. “The unknown does not discourage those with strong drive,” Akdeniz mentioned in our brief conversation. Instead, they embrace it as an opportunity for innovation and growth.

Jim Taylor, Ph.D., highlights what he calls The routine—the stage when the novelty of a growth strategy or venture wears off and real challenges emerge. It is during this phase that many leaders or entrepreneurs give up, but the most successful ones persevere. Taylor writes for Psychology today“Effort is what separates successful entrepreneurs from the rest…truly motivated entrepreneurs catch up with effort and keep going.” It is in this perseverance that drive and determination shine brightest. And in my experience, these rare warriors truly find purpose and fulfillment in this phase because of their ability to maintain an emotional connection to the long-term vision. This is critical. Many have a vision. Few follow through.

Truth 2: Inspire and lead teams

Although it may seem like it, leadership and entrepreneurship are rarely solitary endeavors. At least they shouldn’t be. Success often depends on a team that shares the leader’s passion and vision. “I would never have achieved success without the amazing people who supported me along the way,” Akdeniz reflects when I ask him what helped him get through the tough times. I mean, come on, the restaurant business is a brutal battlefield. Entrepreneurs who possess drive and determination not only inspire their teams, but also lead them toward a common goal.

Research by Eva de Mol, Melissa Cardon, and Svetlana N. Khapova, highlighted in the HBR article “When Entrepreneurial Passion Backfires,” found that teams with similar levels of passion perform more effectively than those with varying degrees of engagement. Passionate teams “reported fewer negative emotions, worked with more focus, and engaged in participative decision making,” according to the researchers. For entrepreneurs, surrounding themselves with motivated, like-minded people is a critical factor in building high-performing teams. One of the most impactful leadership lessons I’ve learned is this: Surround yourself with people who aren’t where you are today, but where you want to be in the future. And then learn as much as you can from them.

Truth 3 – Vision and long-term commitment

While courage is essential to starting a business or leading a high-performing team, this mindset also plays an indispensable role in sustaining long-term success. The ability to remain committed to a long-term vision, despite short-term challenges and setbacks, is what distinguishes those just starting a business from those who build lasting legacies.

Leaders and entrepreneurs who demonstrate unwavering commitment are more likely to see their long-term goals realized. These qualities not only allow them to persevere in the face of adversity, but also enable them to adapt, innovate, and thrive over time.

On the complex path of entrepreneurship, many factors contribute to success: innovation, strategy, and market insight, to name a few. However, drive and determination remain the most critical components. They enable leaders and entrepreneurs to face uncertainty, inspire their teams, and stay committed to their vision, even when the road ahead seems daunting. As you embark on your own entrepreneurial journey, remember that while ideas and plans are necessary, it is your drive and determination that will ultimately determine your success. These traits not only fuel the engine of leadership and entrepreneurship, they are the very essence.