As a mentor, I find myself reflecting on how founders respond to the advice they receive. In some cases, I only know what was shared in a weekly pitch session. With others, I have the additional insights coming from one-on-one deep dive conversation into the founder’s proposition, thought process, and current areas of perceived need. With several multiple session conversations with one founder behind me, a consistent pattern is emerging.
No matter what response founders give in the moment of feedback, the action which follow will tell its own story. The story will reveal what advice was accepted, understood, and actioned. It will also reveal insights on how the founder sees her or himself. I have begun using this feedback to reinforce the lessons available for founders using the revelations in her/his story. The themes include the following.
It is hard to see and hear the truth of one’s actions. The challenge is not only difficult, but it can also be complex and painful! With this reality, taking the time to reflect and learn from one’s own story is an amazing tool to help and heal ourselves. Additionally, helping another through this with care and kindness is one of the greatest gifts a mentor and friend can give another.
Revealed insights and lessons are truth-filled calls to action. I am amazed to reflect on the courage and bold actions which emerged the psalmist responded to the lessons from his experience with Divinity. If he can call out to Divinity to “get your priests all dressed up in justice; prompt your worshipers to sing this prayer,” (Psalm 132.9) surely, I can issue a call to my better self.
Using the lessons from one’s past should not lead one to assume that one has arrived. I have reminded several founders that I am also pitching my start-up. I know first-hand how difficult the process can be. The lessons are clearly challenging! It is often difficult to accept that they never end. Even when a step is perfect, can I repeat it as well as take the next step?
