When a company is founded, the goal is often clear: to grow it into a sustainable, thriving business with loyal customers who genuinely value its products or services. This ambition fuels the pursuit of growth, and while some founders succeed brilliantly, others struggle. Ultimately, the mindset of the business owner plays a crucial role in determining that outcome. In my experience, there are two distinct mindsets that influence business leadership—what I call the Passion Mindset and the Growth Mindset.
Characteristics of an Owner with a Passion Mindset:
Owners with a Passion Mindset are often marked by a flurry of activity, but that doesn’t always translate to productive results. Here’s a look at some typical traits:
· Superficial decision-making: Choices are made impulsively, often based on the first thought that comes to mind.
· Inefficient use of time and energy: There’s a tendency to focus on distractions rather than goals.
· Abrupt decisions: These decisions lack careful consideration, leading to chaotic outcomes.
· False sense of busyness: They’re restless and mistake activity for progress.
· Overconfidence: A “know-it-all” attitude hampers collaboration and learning.
· Exhausting to work with: The energy they bring can be overwhelming for their team, leading to disengaged employees.
Such leadership, especially at senior levels, can create a turbulent work environment. These owners may exhaust both themselves and their team with endless ideas and little execution, failing to achieve meaningful results.
Characteristics of an Owner with a Growth Mindset:
Conversely, a Growth Mindset fosters a climate where productive change and development can flourish. Here’s what this mindset often brings to the table:
· Analytical approach: Decisions are grounded in a clear understanding of issues, focusing on root causes.
· Problem-solving orientation: They seek effective solutions and are prepared to tackle challenges.
· Listening skills: Their openness to others’ ideas encourages collaborative decision-making.
· High-level decision-making: They focus on long-term impacts, not just quick fixes.
· Effective execution: They deliver on goals and know how to prioritize.
· Right people in the right places: They hire strategically, ensuring that team members are well-suited to their roles, and make necessary changes when needed.
· Non-toxic leadership: They absorb stress rather than creating more and provide a stable direction for their team.
At MBS, I am committed to partnering with companies that embody a Growth Mindset. My mission is to help Minnesota’s manufacturing companies scale by optimizing operations, automating processes, building Business Intelligence (BI) infrastructure, and creating high-performing teams. And we’re dedicated to doing this in under nine months.
To all the business owners with a Passion Mindset, I leave you with wise words from my friend Jason at Wilson Tools: “Turn your passion into compassion.”