If there is one thing I have learned in my 41 years life, is that authenticity is the ultimate path to success. Yes, it does yield financial freedom. But, it yields so much more than that. Authenticity means you don’t need to fake anything. Authenticity means you can be unabashedly true to who and what you are meant to be. Authenticity means you can lead others to be true to themselves too. Authenticity brings you happiness.
Be a catalyst of success. Be an authentic entrepreneur
Sharing this story has been the most humbling experience of my life. I shared it for the first time about 12 months ago. I was terrified. I have since shared it on my blog, in one on one conversations, and in speeches like this one. I guess it is almost a kind of therapy.
I encourage you to also share your authentic self! It is good for you. It is good for us.
Mike, great story. I spoke to you about 5 years ago and simply looked up to you – didn’t see the arrogance you talk about. I just admired you. But having heard your story today you actually became more relatable, giving me reassurance that my journey can be equivalent to yours (ok not necessarily the losing it all part though – lol). My whole journey so far has been humbling as starting a school doesn’t really allow for reaching income of a million – but it’s a valiant journey and effort. I love what I do and I love applying your ideas to a ‘business’ that isn’t really wealth motivated. At times when I wonder how to continue, your energy and enthusiasm helps – and I think that’s part of your truth.
Mike, thank you very much for sharing! It’s embarrassing to admit, but while I started bootstrapping my service biz back in 2008, and have since received a few accolades and recognition locally, a few decisions I’ve made along the way have left me financially more or less in the same position as I was in 5 years ago. Every once in a while, I feel the effect of breaking the immutable “blood money” law, and sometimes feel like a complete fake who just got lucky.
I’m sorry you had to go through what you did, but like Anji said – it makes your message more relatable knowing that you’ve won, lost, and are (hopefully) winning again. Your message of “true net worth” is invaluable and I can’t wait to share it with my team.
Thank you, sir!
Mike – thanks for sharing your story. Listening to you recount a very painful moment in time proves the power of your advice. Thank you for writing TPE and the Pumpkin Plan – best regards –
Jack – Thank you so very much for saying that. It means a lot, brother.
– Mike
I have only one word for you Mike…..LOVE! Thanks for sharing your story.
LOVE back at you!
best. speech. ever. ♥!
Thank you so much Kendra.
I hope your daughter got to watch this speech! I had heard the story over the phone, but I was drawn to hearing it again on video. It is amazing to think about how important it is to have encouraging people around you, no matter the age, they can change your world.
She hasn’t seen the speech yet. But she does know the story well. I remind her of it every so often. I think she will Google it at some point and find it on YouTUbe.
Mike,
Thank you so much for sharing your story and being so honest and open! You know I have and continue to be, one of your biggest fans!! I can relate to the darkest moments and now know it is something I need to share as well. You have given me the courage! I consider this video a gift; one that has inspired me to move forward:)
Will be in touch with you soon!
Fondly~ Sherry
Sherry!!! It is so good to “hear” your voice. I believe you moved from Florida, out west of there. Did you? How are you?
What a powerful story (tissues 🙁 ) I wish you’d had brought your daughter to your Rutgers speech with your son as she could have taught both my daughter and I a ton.
This was extremely touching and greatly absorbed.
Thanks Mike. It is funny, my daughter is now well into her teenage years. She doesn’t remember the piggy bank moment. But I have reminder (on those difficult, confrontational teenage moments) of who she truly is.
I’m not looking forward to those years! Feel like I can handle anything in my business, but 2 daughters hitting that teenage mark in 5 years…yikes! Great Post, thanks again!
Hey Mike. I already read your story on your blog a while ago but seeing tell it was very moving (read tears). You looked like you where getting a little choked up too am I right? I have 2 toddler boys and they often remind me of my own true self.
Yeah… it chokes me up still. It has been imprinted on my mind as the most impactful experience of my life.