Entrepreneurship has always been a journey of determination, vision, and adaptability. In today’s evolving world, these qualities are more essential than ever. For over 30 years, Gary Michels, host of the Turn It Up A Notch Podcast and an acclaimed motivational expert, has been a guiding light for leaders and entrepreneurs striving to navigate the complexities of their paths.
With a career spanning industries and accolades from organizations like Bellagio, Ameriprise Financial, and the Arizona Coyotes, Gary understands the challenges entrepreneurs face. He believes that success isn’t about working harder—it’s about working smarter and leading with intention. Here’s how his insights can help today’s entrepreneurs build not just businesses, but legacies.
1. Clarity Fuels Progress
“Entrepreneurs often wear many hats, but without clarity, even the hardest work can feel like spinning your wheels,” Gary says. His first piece of advice? Start with a clear vision of where you want to go.
Define your mission, set priorities, and break larger goals into manageable steps. Whether you’re starting a new venture or scaling an existing one, focus on what truly matters and eliminate distractions. As Gary often emphasizes, “Clarity isn’t just about what you’re doing—it’s about knowing why it matters.”
2. The Right Mindset Is Everything
Entrepreneurship comes with highs and lows, but the right mindset can make all the difference. Gary has worked with countless business leaders to cultivate resilience, focus, and optimism, even in the face of uncertainty.
“Challenges are a given, but how you approach them defines the outcome,” he says. By focusing on possibilities rather than limitations, entrepreneurs can turn setbacks into stepping stones. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s persistence.
3. Confidence Starts With Preparation
Gary’s mantra is clear: confidence isn’t something you’re born with; it’s something you build. For entrepreneurs, this means doing the work—whether it’s understanding your market, preparing for a pitch, or refining your product.
“Confidence comes from knowing your value and being prepared to demonstrate it,” Gary advises. Entrepreneurs who believe in themselves inspire belief in others, from potential investors to customers.
4. Embrace Adaptability
No industry stays the same for long, and successful entrepreneurs know how to adapt. Gary’s work with leaders has shown him that flexibility is not a weakness—it’s a strength.
“Entrepreneurs who embrace change as an opportunity rather than a threat are the ones who succeed in the long run,” he says. Whether it’s leveraging new technology, responding to customer needs, or pivoting in a crisis, adaptability keeps businesses ahead of the curve.
5. Balance Drives Long-Term Success
For entrepreneurs, it can feel natural to pour every ounce of energy into their work. But Gary cautions that without balance, even the most ambitious efforts can lead to burnout.
“Entrepreneurship isn’t just about building a business—it’s about building a life,” he says. Taking time to recharge, invest in relationships, and enjoy the journey isn’t a distraction; it’s an essential part of staying motivated and effective.
6. Build a Team That Shares Your Vision
No entrepreneur succeeds alone. Gary has worked with some of the country’s most effective leaders, and one common thread emerges: success is a team sport.
“Surround yourself with people who believe in your vision and bring their strengths to the table,” he advises. The best teams are diverse, aligned in purpose, and empowered to contribute. As an entrepreneur, your role is to lead by example and inspire your team to aim higher.
7. Leave a Legacy That Matters
Gary’s approach to entrepreneurship goes beyond quarterly profits or market share. He challenges entrepreneurs to think about their long-term impact. “What will people remember about you and your business?” he asks.
Legacy isn’t just about what you build—it’s about the lives you touch, the problems you solve, and the values you stand for. For entrepreneurs, this perspective can provide clarity and motivation, ensuring their work serves a purpose beyond financial gain.
A Call to Action for Entrepreneurs
Gary Michels’ insights have transformed the way leaders think about success. For entrepreneurs, his message is clear: the key to thriving isn’t about avoiding challenges—it’s about embracing them with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Take a moment today to reflect on your goals, refine your approach, and lead with intention. Whether you’re launching a startup, scaling a business, or navigating an unexpected hurdle, remember that entrepreneurship is as much about who you become as it is about what you achieve.
Gary’s advice? “Make every day a step toward the legacy you want to leave. When you approach your work with intention and heart, success is a natural byproduct.”
