Entrepreneur Country Forum


“Avoid the myth of doing things properly”


Mark Hoffmann of Oxygen Finance added another subtle dimension to Madonna’s title.


calmly pointed out that expression can come from an introvert stance:


“I’m quiet but very driven”


Another speaker, Stephen Linnecar, suggested that we gotta have FAITH – Not an allusion to George Michael, but the summary of his presentation which focused on five factors which he regarded as key to success as an entrepreneur: Future, Improvisation,


Attitude, Timing and Help. Improvisation featured strongly


So, there you have it. My key learnings and takeaways from the Entrepreneur


to assume that ‘expressing yourself’ was the realm of extroverts.


It would be too easy Mark


throughout the day, a point that resonated personally with me, having taught creativity,


improvisation and


innovation for the Open University MBA for 18 years. However, what impressed me most of all about the speakers at the event was a real and unusual sense of authenticity. Truths were told about successes. Much more importantly, we gained an insight into mistakes and outright failures. It’s much more important for an entrepreneur to learn from their mistakes than their successes and many speakers were candid about their regrets.


The audience even


learned the perils of not owning up to mistakes via Peter Whent’s wonderful story of “United Breaks Guitars”:


Country Forum. Here is a round-up of five, with thanks to Madonna and Lady Gaga:


1. Hung Up – Don’t get hung up by flogging yourself to death – use the OFF switch


2. Like a Virgin – Treat each day like it’s the first time to remain fresh


3. Express Yourself – Be clear, bold and concise in your communications.


4. Like a Prayer – Have faith in yourself and others that can help you realise your dreams


5. Hair – Be aware of your vulnerabilities, successes, failures and learn


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