“The faster you go, the more important your brakes become”
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Many years ago, a good friend and I were presented with an interesting private placement investment opportunity. After putting in the legwork, we realized the business lacked solid fundamentals but had the potential to soar (when listed) based on market hype, allowing for a swift exit. We figured we could handle the risks and dove in with a significant sum, hoping to jumpstart our investment goals for the year. Alas, we ended up losing it all and found ourselves back at square one.
In both Life and Formula 1 racing, we desire speed. However, as my friend and I learned the hard way, it’s not just about how fast you can go, but how well you can control your momentum. When you’re gunning for speed, it’s crucial to have guardrails in place to keep you from veering off course or even crashing.
As you chase opportunities, consider implementing three guardrails:
Accountability: When you desire to go fast (without crashing), don’t go alone. Formula 1 drivers have a whole pit crew – you should too. The faster you go, the greater accountability you require. Find an accountability partner(s) you trust, that brings a different perspective and helps you identify your blind spots. In business, it’s known as “governance and structure” -:)
Financial guardrails: Without financial guardrails, you’ll be stuck in an endless cycle of playing catch-up. Building wealth isn’t just about making money—it’s about managing it wisely. Define your financial priorities, your minimum requirements for investments, and also your boundaries. If your business relies solely on sales revenue and neglects treasury activities, you’re leaving money on the table.
Values: You must define your non-negotiable values. It will save you from wasting time and energy on things that don’t align with your core beliefs. Your decisions become sharper, simpler, and faster. You become laser-focused. It enhances your speed. For organizations, people act in unison because there is clarity. They become known for having a “high-performance culture”.
What other guardrails do you use to go fast and arrive intact? I’d love to hear your thoughts.
Yours in possibilities,
TKO
PS – Lack of guardrails can derail even the most promising businesses. Join me and a small cohort of high-growth businesses at Venia Group’s #BuildBetter workshop, where I’ll discuss how to steer clear of this pitfall and transform your emerging business into an institution. Click here to learn more.