Financial insecurity

So, I was on a podcast recently where the host asked some (expected) real and hard-hitting questions about any times that I've experienced financial insecurity.

Truth is, while I have bootstrapped multiple successful businesses over the last 15 years, before that I've been deep in debt. Like, multiple months behind on rent. Credit score completely trashed. No real safety net.

For me, understanding business is part of my way of never going back to there.

I made and own my mistakes, and don't compare them to others' situations that may be different. I've had plenty of advantages and privilege to help me recover.

But business skills were a significant lever that I would've struggled for much longer without.

This isn't me suggesting that people need to start a business to get out of poverty. That line of thinking is problematic for a LOT of reasons.

But even as an employee, understanding business can fundamentally change a relationship with your employer. Not always. But often.

It can also help you understand the psychology of your employer. Not to explain or justify their behavior or choices, but to strategically navigate a non-rational system that is run by flawed humans that you can't control.

I don't have a big reveal for this post. Just thought some transparency could help somebody.

And under the hood of most of my work, and many of my professional relationships, is a wish that more people saw what's possible beyond the typical "business success" narratives.

So I hope this helps someone.