The older I get, the more I develop a business philosophy, the more I realise it’s a life philosophy. The challenging times have given me the most personal growth. The failures have led to the biggest successes.Love StartupI enjoyed my corporate career, working with super-smart people to build some very cool tech. Then I discovered, through the power of frustration, that I love freedom and authenticity, and that startup offers each in spades. I found I’m a rebel harmoniser - I like to create change in an environment with a positive vibe. We have different exam papers, so why copy? I realised partway through my career that I’d become a bit of a corporate clone - suit, haircut, attitude and all. It wasn’t me. Now I recognise individuality and personal expression are fundamental - and can make corporates much more creative, much more effective. Diversity is critical. The word ‘Should’ should be banned 😉. Leap and the net shall appear As a CEO I learnt to balance intuitive and data-driven decision making by screwing up many decisions both ways. I now know that when we set and repeat a goal, we reinforce the belief it will happen, and data provides the awareness to navigate to the outcome. We can achieve anything with an effective mindset. Values firstOver the years, particularly after having kids, I realised I care a lot about work culture. I founded Panaseer with a set of values which reflect my own: - Lead with compassion - Stay low ego - Live Authentically - Be Curious - Own It I believe clear values drive business success and, more importantly, a team which loves the journey. Mental health = physical health = performance I suffered chronic back pain for years. I tried conventional treatments which treated symptoms, not causes. The real cause was overwhelming stress. I treated it and my back pain disappeared. So I’m passionate about well-being in the workplace. Happy, well, motivated workforces produce the best results. I love a mission, love sharing wisdom and helping others succeed. Book time on this link if you're a founder CEO and want to share a challenge. You know, the big hairy one that you can’t talk to the Board or your management team about: http://meetfox.com/e/nik-whitfield