How Do You Define Success? Paying Attention to Your Moral Compass

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“You have a chance to do what’s right every time you make a decision. If you ever compromise your integrity you’re losing sight of your moral compass.”  W. Brett Wilson

What does success look like, for you? What are you willing to do to get there? How much are you willing to risk? These are questions that every entrepreneur has to ask themselves eventually.

Brett Wilson is an investor, businessman, philanthropist and best-selling author, but he might be best known for his appearance on CBC television’s Dragons’ Den. Brett’s on this episode to get you to think about how you define success and what you’re willing to do in your pursuit of it.

Brett’s talking about his own experiences starting a business, investing in the community, and writing his new book. He’s sharing what he’s learned to value--in business and in his personal life–and why philanthropy is not just about obligation. This is a must-listen for anyone who wants to be successful and happy.

“Failure, if it’s taken in the right context as a learning experience, is one of the most powerful tools we have.” W. Brett Wilson

Highlights

  • People lose track of their moral compass in the single-minded pursuit of wealth.
  • Stop narrowly focusing on the things instead of the people.
  • Cultivate a willingness to try. You’re going to make mistakes, so don’t be afraid when something doesn’t work out.
  • Don’t accept the way things are. Try to make today a little better than yesterday.
  • Tenacity is a virtue, but tenacity taken to an extreme is delusional.
  • Studying entrepreneurship is planting the seeds and skills so that when the right idea comes, you’ll be ready to start growing.
  • What is your definition of success? What will it cost and how much is enough? What priorities define that definition?
  • You can always learn more. Look for experts and coaches to give you a competitive edge.
  • Philanthropy is good for business, not just an obligation. It’s a tool to build connections, community, and relationships.
  • Nurture the lifelong pursuit of learning. Keep studying marketing and entrepreneurship.
  • Know what makes you different from other companies, and market that directly to your clients.

“We came to discover that what was good for our community was good for us, and we just had to be more strategic.” – W. Brett Wilson

Resources:

Brett’s Website: WBrettWilson.ca

Redefining Success: Still Making Mistakes: https://www.amazon.com/Redefining-Success-Still-Making-Mistakes/dp/0143184202