Richard Branson

Richard Branson

When I put on my entrepreneur hat, I look up to Richard Branson as my source of inspiration.  In fact, I've been reading about him and following his life story since way back when I wasn't yet interested in entrepreneurship.  I can still recall his adventures in riding a hot air balloon!  That made a strong impression on me.  Here was a man who was unafraid and willing to test the boundaries in order for him to achieve his dream.  He was even back then my kind of man!  I always thought of him as an entrepreneur never a businessman.  There was a sense of adventure and romance in being labelled an entrepreneur compared to a businessman who for me sounds cold and impersonal.  If ever there was an entrepreneur army, Richard Branson would be hands down, the commander-in-chief.

As he began to climb the business world, I followed his ups and downs, and was always cheering him on whenever he was down, specially when detractors were all around him.  I felt the pain of his failures and struggles, and was glad when he was able to pull himself out of the rut.  I sort of tried to visualise myself as someone like him, if and when I get to become an entrepreneur.  He has been the subject of countless books and articles, all of them chronicling his life and serving as a beacon for aspiring and budding entrepreneurs like me.

As I continue with my entrepreneurial journey this coming new year, I'll keep him as near to me as possible---to make his challenges a real learning experience for me and to strive forward, full speed ahead, come what may.  I do hope, I'll get the chance to meet him in person someday, soon.  It is the journey that is important, it is the climb that is significant.  And when I do get to the top of the mountain, I'm very sure Richard Branson will be there with me.