Ego is the enemy – it’s the progress that matters

Here’s a harsh truth — having 100% ownership of an idea doesn’t always translate to success.

In truth, 100% of nothing means just that — nothing. And that’s just it — I strongly believe that to turn a vision into reality, one must be open to sharing it, to let others become integral parts of the journey. That usually means facing one harsh reality — putting your ego aside.

Initially, this process might seem like dilution. Realistically, no one expects to complete the entrepreneurial journey alone, but having ownership over the idea, and being the deciding factor on how your business develops is a strong motivator in some cases.

I mean, going on this journey usually means that a person has something to prove, be it to themselves or wherever they draw motivation from. The truth is that, to get to the finish line, that initial 100% of passion and control seemingly shrinks to 10% or 20%. We’re all human, and fears arise that the essence of the dream could be compromised.

Yet, let’s shift the perspective.

In the modern entrepreneurial landscape, ideas mature. They grow beyond personal endeavors, becoming beacons that attract like-minded individuals. People who find the vision appealing and are eager to contribute their unique strengths and talents to transform the dream into reality should be more than welcome to join the journey.

There is one prime example of that (albeit not a business one, but you get the gist), and you’ve heard it on the radio — The Seven Nation Army, a song by The White Stripes.

I saw a podcast interview of Jack White, where he talked about his experience going to a baseball game. Out of the blue, without acknowledging his presence, the whole stadium started chanting the riff of the song. His take — “It’s not my song anymore. It’s the people’s. And it took some time for me to process that.”

The same sentiment can be brought into business. As the entrepreneurial journey progresses, we realize that sharing a vision isn’t a loss; it’s an expansion of possibilities. The song is not being performed in small clubs anymore or specific venues. It’s everywhere.

That would be the core essence of forming alliances. A passionate team comes together, where each member brings something valuable to the table, creating a powerful synergy that propels the dream forward. Days turn into weeks, and weeks into months, and the team grows stronger. The once solitary vision holder, the entrepreneur, finds solace in the collective energy, knowing that each person involved is genuinely invested in the common goal. It’s no longer just “my” dream; it’s “our” dream.

The shared vision becomes a driving force, propelling the team through challenges and setbacks. Like a tightly-knit family, they celebrate every milestone, no matter how small, because it represents progress towards that finish line (whatever that may be).

Regardless of the “why”, I’d say to any entrepreneur to be open to this process down the line.

As new entrepreneurs venture into the realm, I write this as a gentle reminder that an idea is not static; it evolves, adapts, and grows. Embrace the transformation to a shared vision, for it is the essence of a successful entrepreneurial journey.

I think that letting the like-minded souls you attract become your allies, your confidants, and your fellow dream-weavers, marching alongside you as you transform that initial spark into a blazing reality is one of the more rewarding experiences out there. Embrace collaboration and cherish the magic of turning an idea into a collaborative success story.

With shared determination, there’s no limit to what we can achieve together!